Cutaneous adverse effects of antihypertensive medications among hypertensive patients in Enugu state, Nigeria

Background: Antihypertensive drugs are widely used for managing hypertension, especially during this period of increasing prevalence in Nigeria, Africa, and around the world. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of adverse cutaneous drug reactions (ACDRs) to antihypertensives among patients with systemic hypertension. Like other medication classes, side effects can occur and may affect different body systems. The scarcity of data on the profile of ACDRs to antihypertensive medications in Nigeria, despite their growing use, necessitated this study. Cutaneous side effects, being easily visible, could serve as early warning signs to prevent life-threatening complications; therefore, it is important to study them and use the findings to enhance prescriber awareness. Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at the cardiology clinic of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH) in Enugu from January to December 2024, among consenting, eligible hypertensive patients. Adverse cutaneous reactions were identified using a medicine-induced symptom checklist and self-report, based on the modified findings of Ranugha and Betkemr. Results: A total of 70 patients (37 females), aged 26 to 80 years, were studied. The prevalence of ACDRs to antihypertensive medications was 17%. The most common ACDRs to antihypertensive medications among these patients were pruritus (7%), photosensitivity (7%), eczema (5.6%), flushing (4.2%), and vasculitis (4.2%). Conclusions: There are ACDRs to antihypertensive medications among Nigerians. Increasing awareness of these and potential drug alternatives among prescribers and patients will reduce drug-induced morbidity, leading to better compliance and health outcomes.