Hydralazine Flashcards

Study Notes

Hydralazine Overview

Generic name: Hydralazine Hydrochloride.
Brand names include Alazine and Apresoline.

Drug Classification

Classified as a cardiovascular agent and nonnitrate vasodilator.
Functions as an antihypertensive medication.

Pregnancy Category

Classified as Category C, indicating risk cannot be ruled out.

Dosage Forms

Available in tablet forms of 10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg.
Injectable form available at 20 mg/mL in vials.

Recommended Dosage

For adult hypertension, oral doses range from 10-50 mg, taken four times daily.
Injectable dosage of 10-20 mg every 4-6 hours.
Geriatric patients should start with 10 mg, taken 2-3 times daily.

Side and Adverse Effects

Common side effects include hypersensitivity reactions, headaches, dizziness, and gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, vomiting).
Cardiovascular side effects include palpitations and tachycardia.
Possible serious effects: arrhythmia, shock, and SLE-like syndrome.
Monitor for eosinophilia and liver-related issues, such as hepatitis and obstructive jaundice.

Contraindications

Not recommended for patients with coronary artery disease, mitral valve rheumatic heart disease, and recent myocardial infarction.
Contraindicated in individuals with tachycardia or systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Precautions advised for use in patients with a history of cerebrovascular accidents and advanced renal impairment.

Nursing Considerations

Perform lab tests to check antinuclear antibody level before starting and periodically during treatment.
Regularly monitor BUN, creatinine clearance, uric acid, potassium, and blood glucose levels.
Closely observe blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR), especially during hypertensive crises.
Monitor input and output in patients receiving parenteral administration or those with renal issues.

Client Education

Advise patients to monitor weight and report any significant changes or edema to their physician.
Educate that headaches and palpitations may occur shortly after the initial dose but typically resolve spontaneously.
Recommend avoiding rapid position changes, prolonged standing, hot baths, strenuous exercise, and excessive alcohol consumption.
Caution against driving or engaging in hazardous activities until individual response to the medication is understood.
Discuss breastfeeding considerations with a physician prior to use.

Description

Test your knowledge of Hydralazine, its generics, classifications, and dosage forms through these flashcards. Understand the applications and implications of this cardiovascular agent in medical practice.