Questions and Answers
Which classification of hypertension is characterized by no identifiable cause?
Which agent works by altering sodium and water balance in the body to manage hypertension?
Which lifestyle factor is NOT commonly associated with contributing to hypertension?
What is the systolic blood pressure threshold that typically indicates hypertension?
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Which medication class primarily targets adrenergic receptors to manage hypertension?
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What is a primary use of furosemide?
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What side effect is commonly associated with the use of methyldopa?
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Which of the following medications is classified as a centrally acting sympathoplegic?
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What condition do potassium-sparing diuretics primarily address?
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What is a characteristic pharmacokinetic property of methyldopa?
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Study Notes
Antihypertensive Agents
- Hypertension categorized as Essential (Primary) and Secondary.
- Essential Hypertension has no identifiable cause; Secondary Hypertension is due to another medical condition.
- Factors influencing hypertension include genetic factors, psychological stress, and environmental/dietary factors.
Basic Pharmacology of Antihypertensive Agents
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Diuretics manage sodium and water balance, used for conditions like pulmonary edema.
- Common agents: Furosemide, Bumetanide.
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Centrally Acting Sympathoplegic Drugs reduce peripheral vascular resistance.
- Methyldopa is key for hypertension during pregnancy.
- Adrenergic Neuron-Blocking Agents include Alpha I Blockers (e.g., Prazosin, Terazosin, Doxazosin) which reduce arterial pressure by dilating vessels.
- Beta-Adrenoceptor-Blocking Agents (e.g., Metoprolol, Bisoprolol) are crucial for chronic heart failure, reducing heart rate and remodeling.
- Calcium Channel Blockers and Vasodilators, like Hydralazine and Minoxidil, effectively treat hypertensive emergencies, dilating blood vessels.
Potassium-Sparing Diuretics
- Help prevent potassium depletion and counteract glucose and uric acid increases.
- Nebivolol acts via vasodilation and is characterized by a half-life of 10-12 hours.
Side Effects of Antihypertensive Drugs
- Diuretics may cause fluid/electrolyte imbalances, hyperglycemia, and increased uric acid levels.
- Methyldopa can lead to sedation, nightmares, and impaired concentration.
- Alpha blockers may cause dizziness, palpitations, and flushing.
Use of Special Agents
- Minoxidil opens potassium channels, stabilizing muscle membranes to reduce contraction and is effective when combined with B-blockers and loop diuretics.
- ACE Inhibitors, such as Enalapril, are first-line therapy for chronic heart failure and protect against ventricular remodeling.
- Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs) are alternatives for patients intolerant to ACE inhibitors.
General Management of Hypertension
- Emphasizes dietary salt restriction and diuretic therapy (thiazides, loop diuretics, spironolactone, eplerenone) in treatment plans.
- Patients often require combination therapies to manage severe hypertension effectively.
Summary of Pharmacological Agents
- Dilators and other agents can either act as venodilators (e.g., Isosorbide Dinitrate) or major vasodilators, critical in treatment for cardiac issues.
- Importance of combining therapies for maximum effectiveness in managing chronic conditions and acute hypertensive crises.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the key aspects of cardiovascular pharmacology, focusing on antihypertensive agents. This quiz will cover classifications, etiology, and contributing factors of hypertension. Great for students in advanced pharmacology courses.
