Which drugs may cause hyperkalemia for enterally fed patients?

The correct answer identifies spironolactone and penicillin G potassium as drugs that can lead to hyperkalemia in enterally fed patients.

Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic. It works by inhibiting the action of aldosterone, which prevents the excretion of potassium in the kidneys, thereby potentially leading to elevated potassium levels in the bloodstream. This effect can be particularly concerning in patients receiving enteral nutrition, as their potassium levels may already be influenced by the potassium content of their nutritional formula.

Penicillin G potassium is another contributor to hyperkalemia. This form of penicillin contains potassium, and when administered, especially in high doses or to patients with renal impairment, it can cause an increase in serum potassium levels. Enterally fed patients may absorb this additional potassium, leading to hyperkalemia.

Other listed medications, like certain laxatives and diuretics, could also affect potassium levels, but they do not specifically point to those that are prominently associated with hyperkalemia in the context of enteral feeding. This makes the first choice more accurate and relevant for enterally fed patients.

Moreover, medications like acetaminophen and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are not typically linked to hyper