Anti-hypertensives

Question 1

Name the 4 main classes of anti-hypertensives (excluding diuretics).

Answer 1

ACEi, ARBs, beta blockers, Calcium channel blockers

Question 2

Explain the cough associated with the induction of ACEi and ARBs?

Answer 2

ACEi stop the conversion of AT1 to AT2 which blocks the metabolism of bradykinin. This causes an accumulation of bradykinin in the lungs causing bronchospasm and irritation which causes a cough.

Question 3

Explain the mechanism of reflex tachycardia.

Answer 3

Drugs that lower blood pressure cause the body to try to maintain homeostasis which causes the heart rate increase which can cause a rapid heart beat known as tachycardia in response to an abrupt onset of hypotension.

Question 4

What anti-hypertensive is banned for athletes in certain fine motor sports such as archery?

Answer 4

Beta-blockers

Question 5

List 3 major ADRs of calcium channel blockers.

Answer 5

Peripheral oedema, constipation, hypotension