3.2 Adrenergic Blocking Agents Flashcards
Adrenergic blockers are also known as…
Sympatholytics
What is the function of adrenergic blockers?
They function to block the effects of Epinephrine and Norepinephrine
How are adrenergic blockers classified?
By the type of receptor they inhibit
Alpha-blockers and beta-blockers
The function of alpha-blockers is to…
Interrupt stimulation of the SNS at the alpha-adrenergic receptors
How do alpha-blockers affect the arteries and veins of the body?
They cause vasodilation, this reduces peripheral vascular resistance and treats high BP
Alpha-blockers are commonly given to men with which disorder? Why?
Benign prostate hypertrophy/plasia (BPH)
Alpha-blockers reduce the smooth muscle contraction of the bladder neck and prostatic portion of the urethra to decrease resistance to urinary flow
What effect do alpha-blockers have on the uterus?
They stimulate uterine contractions
Alpha-blockers help treat what kind of headache? How?
Vascular headaches. They constrict peripheral and cerebral arteries
Ergotomine Tartrate (Alpha blocker) treats…
Migraines
Methyldopa (alpha blocker) treats…
Hypertension
Prazosin hydrochloride (alpha blocker) treats…
Hypertension
The function of beta blockers is to…
inhibit SNS stimulation of the beta-adrenergic receptors by competing with Epinephrine and Norepinephrine
Beta-1-blockers primarily act on the heart, so we can call them…
cardioselective
Beta blockers primarily treat which disorders?
CV disorders such as Angina, Myocardial infarction, and Heart failure
Beta blockers treat heart disorders by decreasing the demand for _____ ____ and _____ _____
Myocardial energy and oxygen demand
Beta blockers treat which ocular disorder?
Glaucoma
Beta blockers are contraindicated in people with which heart problems?
Bradycardia
Heart block (problems with electrical conduction of the heart)
Why are beta blockers contraindicated in those with asthma, allergic or pulmonary conditions?
Beta blockers increase fluid production
Beta blockers commonly end with which 3 letters?
LOL
Propranolol treats…
Angina, arrhythmia, hypertension
Atenolol treats…
Angina, Arrhythmia
Metoprolol treats…
Hypertension
Nurses should assess client’s history of which disorders?
COPD
hypotension
cardiac dysrhythmias
bradycardia
HF
Monitor for hypotension
bradycardia
heart block
bronchoconstriction
How should clients take adrenergic blockers?
Exactly as prescribed
We ask that clients do not stop taking adrenergic blockers suddenly. Why?
It could cause rebound hypertension or angina
Clients should report which symptoms immediately if they take adrenergic blockers as it could indicate a med complication?
Report constipation, urinary hesitancy or bladder distention
Nurses should educate patients on adrenergic blockers because:
Adrenergic blockers decrease exercise tolerance. too much exercise could cause dizziness and/or fainting
