Certification of Pharmacy Technicians (ExCPT) Practice Exam

Which drug is not considered an antihyperlipidemic medication?

1. Pravachol

2. Tricor

3. Vytorin

4. Aldactone

The correct answer is: Aldactone

Aldactone, also known as spironolactone, is not classified as an antihyperlipidemic medication. Instead, it is a potassium-sparing diuretic primarily used to treat conditions such as heart failure, hypertension, and edema. Its main mechanism of action involves promoting the excretion of sodium and water while retaining potassium, which helps in managing fluid balance in the body. In contrast, pravastatin (Pravachol), fenofibrate (Tricor), and ezetimibe/simvastatin (Vytorin) are all designed to manage lipid levels in the blood. They target cholesterol levels and lipids, effectively reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases by lowering LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol and triglycerides. Each of these medications works through different mechanisms: statins like Pravachol inhibit cholesterol production in the liver, Tricor helps to lower triglycerides, and Vytorin combines two strategies by inhibiting cholesterol absorption and production. Therefore, Aldactone stands apart as a diuretic with a different therapeutic use, cementing its classification outside the realm of antihyperlipidemic medications.