Which of the following is a common adverse effect of ARBs?

Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are commonly prescribed medications used to treat conditions such as hypertension and heart failure. One notable and frequent adverse effect associated with ARBs is hyperkalemia, which is the elevation of potassium levels in the blood. This occurs because ARBs block the effects of angiotensin II, leading to decreased aldosterone secretion. Aldosterone is responsible for promoting the excretion of potassium in the kidneys; thus, when its action is inhibited, potassium retention can occur.

While rash, cough, and flushing can be side effects associated with various cardiovascular medications, they are not especially common with ARBs. For example, cough is a well-known side effect of ACE inhibitors, not ARBs, since ARBs do not affect bradykinin metabolism. Rash and flushing can occur with a variety of medications but are not characteristic adverse effects of ARBs. Hyperkalemia, on the other hand, specifically relates to how ARBs affect renal function and electrolyte balance, making it a significant concern that necessitates monitoring of potassium levels in patients on these medications.