Pharmacology Drug Classifications Flashcards

Study Notes

Antihypertensive (ACE Inhibitors)

Identified by suffix -pril, e.g., enalapril (Vasotec)
Induces vasodilation and lowers blood pressure (BP)
Treats hypertension and heart failure
Common adverse effects: headache, dizziness, fatigue, hypotension, acute kidney failure, angioedema

Antilipidemic

Identified by suffix -statin, e.g., atorvastatin (Lipitor)
Reduces LDL and triglycerides, increases HDL levels
Indications include hypercholesterolemia and types IIa and IIb hyperlipidemia
Adverse effects: back pain, myalgia, headache, gastrointestinal issues

Beta Blockers

Identified by suffix -lol, e.g., atenolol (Tenormin)
Blocks beta 1 adrenergic receptors in cardiac muscle
Reduces heart rate, force of contraction, cardiac output, and BP
Indications include angina, myocardial infarction, hypertension
Side effects: dizziness, fatigue, bradycardia, hypotension, pulmonary edema

Calcium Channel Blockers

Identified by suffix -pine, e.g., amlodipine (Norvasc), diltiazem (Cardizem)
Blocks calcium ion influx in cardiac and vascular smooth muscle
Decreases peripheral resistance, increases cardiac output
Treats angina, hypertension, supraventricular tachycardia
Adverse effects: bradycardia, edema, hypotension, gastrointestinal issues

Nitrates

Identified by prefix nitr-, e.g., nitroglycerin (Nitrostat)
Acts as a vasodilator, reducing preload and myocardial oxygen consumption
Primarily used for angina management
Common adverse effects: headache, dizziness, postural hypotension, tachycardia

Class III Antiarrythmics

Example: Amiodarone
Increases action potential duration by prolonging phase 3 repolarization
Used for managing difficult-to-treat dysrhythmias like ventricular tachycardia and atrial fibrillation
Potential adverse effects: nausea, dizziness, prodysrhythmic effects, QT interval prolongation

Cardiac Glycosides

Example: digoxin (Lanoxin)
Inhibits sodium-potassium ATPase, enhancing myocardial contractility
Used for systolic heart failure and atrial fibrillation
Common adverse effects: bradycardia, confusion, colored vision, gastrointestinal disturbances

Loop Diuretics

Identified by suffix -ide, e.g., bumetanide, furosemide
Blocks sodium and chloride reabsorption in the loop of Henle
Reduces blood pressure and manages edema related to heart failure and renal disease
Potential side effects: dizziness, tinnitus, hypertension, electrolyte imbalances

Potassium-Sparing Diuretics

Examples: amiloride, spironolactone, triamterene
Act on the collecting ducts, disrupting sodium-potassium exchange
Spare potassium while promoting sodium excretion
Indicated for hypertension and edema management

Description

This quiz focuses on antihypertensive medications, specifically ACE inhibitors. Learn key definitions, indications, and adverse effects to enhance your nursing pharmacology knowledge. Ideal for nursing students preparing for exams or clinical practice.