Alpha-Adrenergic Blockers

Question 1

Alpha-adrenergic blockers are separated into two groups, what are they?

Answer 1

Selective alpha blockers and nonselective alpha blockers

Question 2

What is the role of Selective alpha blockers?

Answer 2

They block alpha 1 receptors

Question 3

What is the role of Nonselective alpha blockers?

Answer 3

They block alpha 1 and alpha 2 receptors

Question 4

Many of the alpha adrenergic blockers are not frequently prescribed unlike beta blockers. Why is that?

Answer 4

These alpha adrenergic blockers can cause orthostatic hypotension and reflex tachycardia

Question 5

What is reflex tachycardia?

Answer 5

Reflex tachycardia is a rapid heart rhythm that may be due to ANS effects, such as blood pressure changes, fever, or emotional stress

Question 6

Why are alpha adrenergic blockers helpful in decreasing symptoms of benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH)?

Answer 6

Because it does. I’m kidding; since there is a proliferation of cellular elements of the prostate, MAYBE adrenergic blockers prevent too much stimulation of proliferation of cells in the prostate gland

Question 7

What is BPH?

Answer 7

BPH is the acronym for benign prostatic hypertrophy. It is the proliferation of the cellular elements of the prostate

Question 8

Since alpha adrenergic blockers cause vasodilation, what can happen if this occurs?

Answer 8

Orthostatic hypotension can result

Question 9

What are the symptoms of alpha adrenergic blockers?

Answer 9

Dizziness may be a symptom when there’s a drop in blood pressure. As blood pressure decreases, pulse rate usually increases to compensate for the low blood pressure and inadequate blood flow

Question 10

Why are alpha adrenergic blockers can be used to treat peripheral vascular disease (e.g., Raynaud’s disease)?

Answer 10

Vasodilation occurs, increasing blood flow to the extremities