Case Study 1: Hypertension Management in a 50-Year-Old Patient

Objective: Understand the pharmacologic treatment of hypertension, evaluate drug interactions, and individualize care plans.

Patient Profile:

• Age: 50
• Gender: Male
• Height/Weight: 5’9”, 230 lbs
• Medical History: Hypertension (diagnosed 3 years ago), Type 2 Diabetes (well-controlled with metformin), elevated cholesterol
• Current Medications: Metformin 500 mg BID, Atorvastatin 20 mg daily
• Blood Pressure: 160/98 mmHg

Instructions for Students:

1. Assess the patient’s current medications and identify potential interactions.
2. Recommend a pharmacologic treatment plan for hypertension. Consider first-line and alternative medications.
3. Justify your medication choice based on patient history and current guidelines.
4. Discuss any adjustments needed in the patient’s other medications (e.g., statins, diabetes medications) if new drugs are introduced.
5. Monitor: List parameters for monitoring the efficacy and safety of the chosen therapy (e.g., BP, kidney function, side effects).
6. Counsel: Create patient education points focusing on medication adherence, lifestyle changes, and potential side effects.