Cardiovascular: MI, Heart Failure, Arrhythmias · USMLE Step 1

A patient with heart failure is prescribed spironolactone. What is its primary benefit?

  1. Directly increases cardiac contractility
  2. Blocks beta-adrenergic receptor activity
  3. Reduces mortality via aldosterone blockade
  4. Increases venous return to the heart
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Reduces mortality via aldosterone blockade

Spironolactone reduces mortality in heart failure patients by antagonizing aldosterone, preventing cardiac remodeling.

Difficulty: Medium Question 7 of 20

Practice all 20 Cardiovascular: MI, Heart Failure, Arrhythmias questions

Keep practicing

More Cardiovascular: MI, Heart Failure, Arrhythmias questions