Alpha- Adrenergic Blockers

Question 1

Alpha Adrenergic blocker (non-selective)

ACTION

Answer 1

Blocks alpha receptors: vasodilation resulting in decreased BP

Blocks Alpha 2 receptors: prevents norepinephrine feedback loop resulting in increase in reflex

Question 2

Alpha adrenergic blocking Non selective
Sympathetic Nervous System Blockers

INDICATIONS

Answer 2

Diagnose and manage episodes of pheochromocytoma
(a type of neuroendocrine tumor that grows from cells called chromaffin cells. These cells produce hormones needed for the body and are found in the adrenal glands.)

Question 3

Alpha adrenergic blocking Non selective
Sympathetic Nervous System Blockers

MEDICATIONS

Answer 3

Phenoxybenzamine
Phentolamine

“phen” and “amine”

Question 4

Alpha adrenergic blocking Non selective
Sympathetic Nervous System Blockers

DRUG DRUG Interaction

Answer 4

Alcohol

Question 5

Alpha adrenergic blocking Non selective
Sympathetic Nervous System Blockers

CONTRAINDICATION / CAUTIONS

Answer 5

Allergy to med
Coronary artery disease (CAD)
Myocardial Infarction (MI)

Question 6

Alpha adrenergic blocking Non selective
Sympathetic Nervous System Blockers

ADVERSE EFFECTS

Answer 6

increased reflex tachycardia
GI effects
headache, weakness, dizziness

reactions related to vasodilation and decreased BP:
HYPOtension, flushing, arrythmia, angina