Cardiovascular Drugs Flashcards
What is the mechanism of action of Aspirin?
When would you prescribe it?
Aspirin is an NSAID that irreversibly inhibits COX-1 (and COX-2), producing prostaglandins.
It is an acetylating agent and attaches an acetylene group to the active site of a COX enzyme.
Aspirin can be used to alleviate arthritic and menstrual pain or reduce fever. It also prevents blood clotting so is useful for patients with atherosclerosis or angina due to CHD.
What is the mechanism of action of Amlodipine?
When would you prescribe it?
Amlodipine inhibits calcium ion influx across the plasma membrane, causing vasodilation and reduction in peripheral vascular resistance, lowering blood pressure.
It increases the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart whilst reducing its workload.
Amlodipine is prescribed to treat angina and prevent attacks of chest pain. It is also used to reduce blood pressure.
What is the mechanism of action of Ramipril?
When would you prescribe it?
Ramipril inhibits the RAAS (renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system) by binding to and inhibiting ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) which prevents the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II.
This prevents vasoconstriction and lowers blood pressure.
You would prescribe Ramipril to treat high blood pressure and to prevent strokes/heart attacks in patients with CVD.
What is the mechanism of action of Losartan?
When would you prescribe it?
Losartan inhibits angiotensin II receptors, meaning blood vessels relax and blood pressure lowers.
Losartan is used to treat high blood pressure.
What is the mechanism of action of Bisoprolol?
When would you prescribe it?
Bisoprolol is a beta blocker that inhibits renin secretion, therefore blocking the RAAS.
It is used to treat heart failure and high blood pressure.
What is the mechanism of action of Atenolol?
When would you prescribe it?
Atenolol binds to beta-1 adrenergic receptors which blocks the release of adrenaline and noradrenaline. This slows the heart rate.
Atenolol is used to treat arrhythmias and angina. It is not usually given to those with asthma.
What is the mechanism of action of Propranolol?
When would you prescribe it?
Propranolol inhibits renin release and blocks the RAAS. This in turn blocks the action of epinephrine and norepinephrine.
Propranolol is used to treat arrhythmia and angina, and can be used to help control the symptoms of an overactive thyroid gland. It is not given to patients with respiratory diseases, especially those with asthma.
What is the mechanism of action of Metoprolol?
When would you prescribe it?
Metoprolol inhibits beta-1 adrenergic receptors which leads to a decrease in heart rate.
Metoprolol is used to treat the rapid heart rate in those with angina, arrhythmias and hyperthyroidism.
What is the mechanism of action of Furosemide?
When would you prescribe it?
Furosemide increase the excretion of Na+ and water by the kidneys by inhibiting their reabsorption.
Furosemide is used to treat oedema in patients with heart failure, and some lung/liver/kidney disorders.
What drug classification does Aspirin belong to?
NSAIDs
What drug classification does Amlodipine belong to?
Calcium Channel Blockers
What drug classification does Ramipril belong to?
ACE Inhibitors
What drug classification does Losartan belong to?
Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers
What drug classification does Furosemide belong to?
Loop Diuretics
What is the mechanism of action of Clopidogrel?
What other common drug has the same mechanism?
Clopidogrel is an antiplatelet that inhibits P2Y12 receptors, inhibiting ADP binding to platelet receptors.
Ticagrelor has the same mechanism.
