Cardiovascular Pharmacology Quiz

What is the most likely blood pressure measurement that would classify a patient as having hypertension?

Which pharmacological management strategy is recommended when initial monotherapy for primary hypertension is unsuccessful?

What can exacerbate cardiovascular conditions, leading to the need for antihypertensive therapy?

Which antihypertensive drug group works primarily by inhibiting the effects of sympathetic nervous system activity?

What is one potential fatal consequence of untreated hypertension?

Which of the following is considered a primary risk factor for the development of hypertension?

What is the role of diuretics in the treatment of hypertension?

Which statement accurately reflects a characteristic of secondary hypertension?

Cardiovascular Pharmacology

The heart pumps blood to the lungs and systemic circulation
Heart efficiency can be impaired by:
- Compromised contractility (heart failure)
- Drugs for heart failure
- Heart rhythm disturbances (antiarrhythmics)
- Heart attack (angina pectoris) (antiangina)
- Chronic increase in blood pressure (antihypertension)
- Atherosclerosis

Antihypertensive Agents (AH)

Hypertension (HT) is defined as a systolic blood pressure (SBP) of 140 mmHg or greater, and/or a diastolic blood pressure (DBP) of 90 mmHg or greater.
Two types of hypertension
- Secondary HT, treated with causal therapy.
- Primary HT, treated with anti-hypertensive (AH) agents.
Hypertension has serious consequences, including stroke, myocardial infarction (MI), and renal failure.

Etiology of Hypertension

Age and race are factors contributing to hypertension.

How to Measure Blood Pressure

Before taking blood pressure:
- No food or drinks 30 minutes prior
- Empty bladder
During blood pressure measurement:
- No talking
- Arm resting at chest height
- Cuff against bare skin
- Back supported
- Feet flat on the floor

Non-Pharmacological Management of Hypertension

Diet approaches like DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension)
Regular exercise
Weight management
Stress reduction
Limiting alcohol consumption
Smoking cessation

Pharmacological Management of Hypertension

Primary Hypertension: Initial monotherapy
Unsuccessful: Polypharmacy
Drug choices involving different drug groups to maximize efficacy and minimize side effects
Severe or malignant hypertension: Hospitalization is likely

Antihypertensive (AH) Classification

Four major drug groups:
- Diuretics
- Sympatholytics
- Vasodilators
- Angiotensin antagonists

Test your knowledge on cardiovascular pharmacology, including the function of the heart and the various drugs used to address heart conditions such as heart failure and hypertension. This quiz will cover crucial topics such as the etiology of hypertension, types of antihypertensive agents, and methods for measuring blood pressure.