Which of the following conditions would most likely benefit from discontinuation of glyburide in elderly patients?

Study for the UWorld Pharmacology Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

When considering the discontinuation of glyburide in elderly patients, heart failure is a significant condition that warrants special attention. Glyburide, a sulfonylurea used to manage type 2 diabetes by stimulating insulin secretion from the pancreas, can increase the risk of hypoglycemia. In elderly patients, who may have a decreased capacity for self-regulation of blood glucose levels, the risk of hypoglycemia can be compounded by factors such as diminished renal function, fluctuations in dietary intake, and polypharmacy.

In the context of heart failure, the use of glyburide can be particularly concerning. Patients with heart failure may have altered fluid status and might be on multiple medications that can affect heart function and fluid retention. The risk of hypoglycemia in this setting can lead to adverse cardiovascular events, increased hospitalizations, and a further decline in heart function. Therefore, discontinuing glyburide can help mitigate these risks, making it a more appropriate choice for elderly patients with heart failure.

The other conditions—type 2 diabetes, hypothyroidism, and hypertension—do not present the same level of acute risk associated with hypoglycemia and heart failure as seen with glyburide. While managing diabetes is crucial in these patients, the

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