Which statement is accurate for a patient with type 2 diabetes and taking hydrochlorothiazide?

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The statement regarding hydrochlorothiazide’s potential to predispose a patient to digoxin toxicity is correct because hydrochlorothiazide, a thiazide diuretic, can lead to hypokalemia (low potassium levels). This electrolyte imbalance is particularly concerning for patients taking digoxin, as digoxin’s level of toxicity can be heightened in the context of low potassium. Hypokalemia can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity because potassium and digoxin have a reciprocal relationship in the body's potassium-sodium pump mechanism. When potassium levels are low, digoxin can exert a stronger effect on the heart, which may lead to arrhythmias and other complications.

Glipizide does not deplete potassium stores and is primarily a sulfonylurea that stimulates insulin secretion; therefore, it does not affect potassium levels significantly. Similarly, atorvastatin does not worsen diabetes in most cases; it is often used with caution but can improve overall cardiovascular risk for diabetic patients. Lastly, while digoxin is used for heart conditions, stating it has "no significant effects" is misleading, as digoxin certainly affects cardiovascular function and requires careful monitoring, especially in patients who could be at risk for toxicity.

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