What is the first-line medication for uncomplicated hypertension in elderly patients
Question : What is the first-line medication for uncomplicated hypertension in elderly patients (≥65 years old)?
A. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI)
B. Calcium channel blocker (CCB)
C. Beta-blocker (β-Blocker)
D. Diuretic
Answer: B
Explanation: According to the 2023 Korean Hypertension Guidelines, calcium channel blockers (CCBs) have stable blood pressure-lowering effects, good tolerability, and are not easily affected by age-related changes in renal function, making them the first-line choice for elderly hypertensive patients. Diuretics are also first-line options but are more likely to cause electrolyte disturbances; ACEIs may have a higher incidence of cough in Asians; β-Blockers are mainly used for hypertensive patients with comorbidities such as coronary heart disease. Therefore, the correct answer is B.
