Cardiovascular Pharmacology Flashcards
What is the heart’s primary function?
The heart acts as a pump, circulating blood through the body’s vascular system.
What is heart failure?
Heart failure occurs when the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body’s metabolic needs, often due to myocardial injury from ischemia, inflammation, or chronic hypertension.
What is hypertension?
Hypertension is a condition where blood pressure is elevated due to increased blood volume or peripheral resistance.
What are arrhythmias?
Arrhythmias are irregular heartbeats caused by disruptions in the heart’s electrical conduction system.
What are angina and myocardial infarction?
Angina is chest pain due to insufficient blood flow to the heart, while myocardial infarction occurs when heart tissue dies due to prolonged lack of oxygen.
What do thiazide diuretics do?
Thiazide diuretics reduce blood pressure by inhibiting sodium and chloride reabsorption in the distal tubule, increasing urine output.
What do loop diuretics do?
Loop diuretics inhibit chloride reabsorption in the thick ascending loop of Henle, causing significant diuresis and often used in emergencies.
What do potassium-sparing diuretics do?
Potassium-sparing diuretics enhance sodium excretion while retaining potassium, often used to counteract potassium loss from other diuretics.
How do central antiadrenergics work?
Central antiadrenergics reduce sympathetic outflow from the brain, decreasing heart rate and blood pressure.
How do peripheral antiadrenergics work?
Peripheral antiadrenergics deplete norepinephrine in nerve terminals, reducing vasoconstriction and heart rate.
What do ACE inhibitors do?
ACE inhibitors block the production of angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor, thereby reducing blood pressure.
How do thiazide diuretics work?
Thiazide diuretics inhibit sodium and chloride reabsorption in the distal tubule, leading to mild diuresis and potential potassium loss.
Thiazide diuretics are commonly used to treat hypertension and edema.
What is the effect of loop diuretics?
Loop diuretics inhibit chloride reabsorption in the thick ascending loop of Henle, causing a high loss of potassium and water.
Loop diuretics are often used in cases of heart failure and renal impairment.
How do potassium-sparing diuretics work?
These diuretics enhance sodium and water excretion while retaining potassium, often used in combination with other diuretics to prevent hypokalemia.
Common potassium-sparing diuretics include spironolactone and eplerenone.
What do osmotic diuretics do?
Osmotic diuretics draw water into the urine without affecting ion secretion or absorption, used in acute conditions like brain edema.
Mannitol is a widely used osmotic diuretic.
How do central antiadrenergics work?
Central antiadrenergics reduce sympathetic outflow from the brain by activating inhibitory α2 receptors, promoting parasympathetic dominance.
Examples include clonidine and guanfacine.
What do peripheral antiadrenergics do?
Peripheral antiadrenergics prevent norepinephrine release from nerve terminals, reducing blood pressure by decreasing peripheral resistance.
These medications can be used in the treatment of hypertension.
What is the effect of alpha blockers?
Alpha blockers inhibit vasoconstriction by blocking α1 receptors, reducing peripheral resistance and blood pressure.
Common examples include prazosin and doxazosin.
How do beta blockers work?
Beta blockers prevent adrenergic stimulation of the heart by blocking β1 receptors, reducing heart rate and contractility.
They are often prescribed for hypertension and heart conditions.
What do vasodilators do?
Vasodilators widen blood vessels, reducing blood pressure by decreasing peripheral resistance.
Examples include hydralazine and nitroglycerin.
How do ACE inhibitors work?
ACE inhibitors suppress the synthesis of angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor, and may induce vasodilator production.
Common ACE inhibitors include lisinopril and enalapril.
How do ARBs work?
ARBs block the action of angiotensin II at its receptors, reducing vasoconstriction and blood pressure.
Examples include losartan and valsartan.
What is the mechanism of action of Lidocaine?
Na+ channel blockage, preferentially binds to Na+ channels in the deactivated state
What is a key indication for Lidocaine?
Acute ventricular arrhythmia secondary to myocardial infarction, digitalis toxicity, cardiac manipulation
What are the key toxicities associated with Lidocaine?
- Cardiotoxicity: arrhythmia, bradycardia
- Neurotoxicity: excitation/depression
What is the mechanism of action of Procainamide?
Na+ channel blockage, preferentially binds to Na+ channels in the deactivated state
What is a key indication for Procainamide?
- Ventricular arrhythmia
- Supraventricular arrhythmia
What is a key toxicity associated with Procainamide?
SLE-like syndrome, increased incidence in slow acetylators
What is the mechanism of action of Quinidine?
Na+ channel blockage, preferentially binds to Na+ channels in the activated state
What are the key indications for Quinidine?
- Ventricular arrhythmia/tachycardia
- Atrial fibrillation/flutter
What are the key toxicities associated with Quinidine?
- Cinchonism
- ↑ QT interval
What is the mechanism of action of Amiodarone?
K+, Ca2+, and Na+ channel blocker: broad-spectrum anti-arrhythmic
What are the key indications for Amiodarone?
Most types of arrhythmias
What are the key toxicities associated with Amiodarone?
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Hyper- or hypothyroidism
- Blue pigment of the skin
- Corneal deposits
- Hepatotoxic
- Photophobia
What is the mechanism of action of Bretylium?
Unknown
What is a key indication for Bretylium?
Ventricular arrhythmia resistant to typical antiarrhythmic therapy
What are the key toxicities associated with Bretylium?
- Orthostatic hypotension
- Nausea
- Vomiting
What is the mechanism of action of Sotalol?
β-blocker and K+ channel blocker
What are the key indications for Sotalol?
- Ventricular arrhythmia
- Atrial fibrillation/flutter
What is a key toxicity associated with Sotalol?
Torsades de pointes
What is the mechanism of action of Amlodipine?
Ca2+ channel blocker preferentially in vasculature
What are the key indications for Amlodipine?
- Angina
- Hypertension
What are the key toxicities associated with Amlodipine?
- Peripheral edema
- Pulmonary edema
- Flushing/dizziness
- Reflex tachycardia
- Gingival hyperplasia
What is the mechanism of action of Diltiazem?
Ca2+ channel blocker preferentially in vasculature
What are the key indications for Diltiazem?
- Supraventricular tachycardia
- Angina
- Hypertension
What are the key toxicities associated with Diltiazem?
- Cardiac depression
- Constipation
What is the mechanism of action of Adenosine?
Adenosine receptor agonist: ↓ cAMP via Gi
What is a key indication for Adenosine?
AV nodal arrhythmia, paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardias
What are the key toxicities associated with Adenosine?
- Impending doom
- Vasodilation
- Dyspnea secondary to bronchoconstriction
What is the mechanism of action of Atropine?
Muscarinic antagonist
What is a key indication for Atropine?
Sinus bradycardia, AV block
What are the key toxicities associated with Atropine?
Antimuscarinic/cholinergic effects
What is the mechanism of action of Digoxin?
Cardiac Na+/K+ ATPase inhibitor
What are the key indications for Digoxin?
- Heart failure
- Atrial fibrillation
What are the key toxicities associated with Digoxin?
- Arrhythmia
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Blurry yellow vision
What is the mechanism of action of Epinephrine?
β- and α-agonist: β > α
What is a key indication for Epinephrine?
Anaphylactic reactions, hypotension
What are the key toxicities associated with Epinephrine?
- Hypotension secondary to β- and α-adrenergic receptor effects
- Anxiety
- Respiratory difficulties
What is the mechanism of action of Atenolol?
β-blocker, β1 > β2
What are the key indications for Atenolol?
- Hypertension
- Angina
- Post-MI secondary prevention
What are the key toxicities associated with Atenolol?
- Bradycardia
- Heart failure
- AV block
What is the mechanism of action of Esmolol?
β-blocker, β1 > β2
What is a key indication for Esmolol?
Supraventricular tachycardia
What are the key toxicities associated with Esmolol?
- Bradycardia
- Hypotension
What is the mechanism of action of Metoprolol?
β-blocker, β1 > β2
What are the key indications for Metoprolol?
- Hypertension
- Angina
- Acute myocardial infarction in hemodynamically stable patients
What are the key toxicities associated with Metoprolol?
- Hypotension
- Bradycardia
- AV block
- Dyslipidemia
What is the mechanism of action of Benazepril?
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor
What are the key indications for Benazepril?
- Hypertension
- Heart failure
- Diabetic kidney disease
What are the key toxicities associated with Benazepril?
- Cough
- Hyperkalemia
- Teratogen
- Angioedema
- ↓ Glomerular filtration rate (GFR)
- Hypotension
What is the mechanism of action of Losartan?
Angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB)
What are the key indications for Losartan?
- Hypertension
- Heart failure
- Diabetic kidney disease
What are the key toxicities associated with Losartan?
- Hyperkalemia
- Teratogen
- ↓ Glomerular filtration rate (GFR)
- Hypotension
What is the mechanism of action of Clonidine?
α2-agonist
What are the key indications for Clonidine?
- Hypertension
- Attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD)
- Tourette syndrome
- Opioid withdrawal
What are the key toxicities associated with Clonidine?
- Depression of the CNS
- Respiratory depression
- Bradycardia
- Hypotension
- Miosis
What is the mechanism of action of Amrinone?
Phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitor
What is a key indication for Amrinone?
Heart failure
What are the key toxicities associated with Amrinone?
Arrhythmia
What is the mechanism of action of Dobutamine?
β- and α-agonist, β1 > β2, α
What is a key indication for Dobutamine?
Heart failure
What are the key toxicities associated with Dobutamine?
Tachyarrhythmia, hypotension
What is the mechanism of action of Norepinephrine?
β- and α-agonist, α > β
What are the key indications for Norepinephrine?
- Hypotension
- Cardiac arrest
- Septic shock
What are the key toxicities associated with Norepinephrine?
- Hypertension
- Bradycardia
- Arrhythmia
- Anxiety
- Dyspnea
What is the mechanism of action of Hydralazine?
↑ cGMP, leading to smooth muscle relaxation
What are the key indications for Hydralazine?
- Severe hypertension
- Heart failure
What are the key toxicities associated with Hydralazine?
- Tachycardia
- SLE
What is the mechanism of action of Bumetanide?
Inhibit Na+/K+/2Cl− transporter of thick ascending limb of loop of Henle
What are the key indications for Bumetanide?
- Hypertension
- Edema due to heart failure, liver failure, nephrotic syndrome
What are the key toxicities associated with Bumetanide?
- Ototoxicity
- Metabolic hypokalemic alkalosis
- Hypovolemia
- Sulfa allergy
- Interstitial nephritis
- Gout
- Efficacy is decreased when used with NSAIDs
What is the mechanism of action of Acetazolamide?
Carbonic anhydrase inhibitor
What are the key indications for Acetazolamide?
- Edema
- Mountain sickness
- Glaucoma
- Idiopathic intracranial hypertension
What are the key toxicities associated with Acetazolamide?
- Metabolic acidosis
- Hyperammonemia
- Paresthesias
- Sulfa allergy
What is the mechanism of action of Atorvastatin?
HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor
What are the key indications for Atorvastatin?
Vascular disease secondary to atherosclerosis
What are the key toxicities associated with Atorvastatin?
- Myopathy
- Hepatotoxicity
- Potential for teratogenicity, contraindicated in pregnancy
What is the mechanism of action of Aspirin?
Irreversible COX inhibitor
What are the key indications for Aspirin?
Treatment and prevention of arterial thrombosis
What are the key toxicities associated with Aspirin?
- Tinnitus
- Gastrointestinal toxicity
- Renal toxicity
- Reye syndrome in children with viral infection
- Metabolic acidosis-respiratory alkalosis
What is the mechanism of action of Alteplase?
Aids in conversion of plasminogen to plasmin
What are the key indications for Alteplase?
- Early myocardial infarction
- Ischemic stroke
- Pulmonary embolism
What are the key toxicities associated with Alteplase?
Bleeding
What is the mechanism of action of Digoxin-Immune Fab?
Binds excess digoxin or digitoxin
What is a key indication for Digoxin-Immune Fab?
Digoxin toxicity
What are the key indications for Albumin?
Blood volume expander, acts as an oncotic agent
What are the key toxicities associated with Albumin?
- Hypovolemia
- Subacute bacterial peritonitis
- Cirrhosis
- Heart failure
- Edema
What is the mechanism of action of Digoxin-Immune Fab?
Binds excess digoxin or digitoxin
Used primarily to treat digoxin toxicity.
What is the key indication for using Digoxin-Immune Fab?
Digoxin toxicity
Specifically for patients with elevated levels of digoxin.
What is a key toxicity associated with Digoxin-Immune Fab?
Heart failure exacerbation
What is the mechanism of action of Albumin?
Acts as an oncotic agent and binds to various substances in the blood
Includes bilirubin and drugs.
What are the key indications for Albumin?
Hypovolemia, subacute bacterial peritonitis, cirrhosis, heart failure, edema
Fill in the blank: Digoxin-Immune Fab is used to treat _______.
Digoxin toxicity
Fill in the blank: Albumin acts as a _______ agent.
oncotic
True or False: Albumin is used to treat heart failure.
True
What effect does Albumin have on blood volume?
Expands blood volume
What is the mechanism of action of Lidocaine?
Na+ channel blockage preferentially binds to Na+ channels in the deactivated state
Used primarily for acute ventricular arrhythmia
What is a key indication for using Lidocaine?
Acute ventricular arrhythmia secondary to:
* myocardial infarction
* digitalis toxicity
* cardiac manipulation (i.e., catheterization, surgery)
Important for treating arrhythmias in various cardiac situations
What are the key toxicities associated with Lidocaine?
Cardiotoxicity:
* arrhythmia
* bradycardia
Neurotoxicity:
* excitation/depression
These toxicities can lead to serious complications
What is the mechanism of action of Procainamide?
Na+ channel blockage preferentially binds to Na+ channels in the deactivated state
Similar to Lidocaine in its action
What is a key indication for using Procainamide?
Ventricular arrhythmia and supraventricular arrhythmia
Effective in treating various types of arrhythmias
What is a key toxicity associated with Procainamide?
SLE-like syndrome: increased incidence in slow acetylators
This can lead to autoimmune-like symptoms
What is the mechanism of action of Quinidine?
Na+ channel blockage preferentially binds to Na+ channels in the activated state
Distinct from Lidocaine and Procainamide in its binding state
What is a key indication for using Quinidine?
Ventricular arrhythmia/tachycardia and atrial fibrillation/flutter
Used in more complex arrhythmias
What are the key toxicities associated with Quinidine?
Cinchonism and ↑ QT interval
Cinchonism includes symptoms like tinnitus and headache
What is the mechanism of action of Amiodarone?
K+, Ca2+, and Na+ channel blocker: broad-spectrum anti-arrhythmic
Amiodarone acts on multiple ion channels, making it effective for various arrhythmias.
What is a key indication for Amiodarone?
Most types of arrhythmias: secondary due to broad mechanism of action
Amiodarone is used for a wide range of arrhythmias due to its diverse action.
What are the key toxicities associated with Amiodarone?
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Hyper- or hypothyroidism
- Blue pigment of the skin (‘smurf skin’)
- Corneal deposits
- Hepatotoxic
- Photophobia
These toxicities highlight the importance of monitoring patients on Amiodarone.
What is the mechanism of action of Bretylium?
Unknown
The exact mechanism by which Bretylium works is not fully understood.
What is a key indication for Bretylium?
Ventricular arrhythmia resistant to typical antiarrhythmic therapy: considered last-resort
Bretylium is used when other treatments fail.
What are the key toxicities associated with Bretylium?
- Orthostatic hypotension
- Nausea
- Vomiting
These side effects necessitate careful monitoring during treatment.
What is the mechanism of action of Sotalol?
β-blocker; K+ channel blocker
Sotalol combines two mechanisms for its antiarrhythmic effects.
What are the key indications for Sotalol?
- Ventricular arrhythmia
- Atrial fibrillation/flutter
Sotalol is used for both ventricular and atrial arrhythmias.
What are the key toxicities associated with Sotalol?
- Torsades de pointes
- β-blockade
These toxicities require monitoring of heart rhythm and blood pressure.
What type of drug are Amlodipine, Nicardipine, and Nifedipine?
Ca2+ channel blockers preferentially in vasculature
These drugs primarily target vascular smooth muscle.
What is a key indication for using Amlodipine?
Angina
Amlodipine is also indicated for hypertension.
What are some common toxicities associated with Amlodipine, Nicardipine, and Nifedipine?
- Peripheral edema
- Pulmonary edema
- Flushing/dizziness
- Reflex tachycardia
These side effects result from their action on vascular smooth muscle.
What is the mechanism of action for Diltiazem and Verapamil?
Ca2+ channel blockers preferentially in vasculature
They also act on cardiac tissues.
What is a key indication for using Diltiazem?
Supraventricular tachycardia
Diltiazem is also used for angina and hypertension.
What are some common toxicities associated with Diltiazem and Verapamil?
- Cardiac depression
- Constipation
These side effects can occur due to their effects on cardiac function.
Fill in the blank: Amlodipine is indicated for _______.
Angina
True or False: Amlodipine can cause gingival hyperplasia.
True
Fill in the blank: Diltiazem is used to treat _______.
Supraventricular tachycardia
What is the mechanism of action of Adenosine?
Adenosine receptor agonist: ↓ cAMP via Gi
What is a key indication for the use of Adenosine?
AV nodal arrhythmia, Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardias
What are the key toxicities associated with Adenosine?
Impending doom, Vasodilation, Dyspnea secondary to bronchoconstriction
What type of drug is Atropine?
Muscarinic antagonist
What are the key indications for Atropine?
Inhibit secretions, Sinus bradycardia, AV block, Adjuvant with anticholinesterase
What are the toxic effects of Atropine?
Antimuscarinic/cholinergic effects
What is the mechanism of action of Digoxin?
Cardiac Na+/K+ ATPase inhibitor
What are the key indications for Digoxin?
Heart failure, Atrial fibrillation
What are the toxicities associated with Digoxin?
Arrhythmia, Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Blurry yellow vision
What is the mechanism of action of Epinephrine?
β- and α-agonist: β > α
What are the key indications for Epinephrine?
Anaphylactic reactions, Hypotension
What are the secondary effects of Epinephrine?
Secondary to β- and α-adrenergic receptor effects
What is the mechanism of action of Ibutilide?
K+ channel blocker
What are the key indications for Ibutilide?
Atrial fibrillation/flutter, Torsades de pointes
What is the mechanism of action of Isoproterenol?
β-agonist
What are the indications for Isoproterenol?
Heart block, Bradyarrhythmias, Bronchospasm
What are the toxicities associated with Isoproterenol?
Arrhythmias, Angina, Flushing
What is the mechanism of action of Magnesium sulfate?
Effect on Ca2+ and K+ fluxes
What are the key indications for Magnesium sulfate?
Torsades de pointes, Digitalis-induced arrhythmia
What are the toxic effects of Magnesium sulfate?
Cardiac arrest, ↓ Deep tendon reflexes
What is the mechanism of action of Atenolol?
β-blocker, β1 > β2
What are the key indications for Atenolol?
Hypertension, Angina, Post-MI secondary prevention
What are the key toxicities associated with Atenolol?
Bradycardia, Heart failure, AV block
What is the mechanism of action of Esmolol?
β-blocker, β1 > β2
What is the key indication for Esmolol?
Supraventricular tachycardia
What are the key toxicities associated with Esmolol?
Cardiac arrest, Bradycardia, Hypotension
What is the mechanism of action of Metoprolol?
β-blocker, β1 > β2
What are the key indications for Metoprolol?
Hypertension, Angina, Acute myocardial infarction in hemodynamically stable patients, ↓ Morbidity and mortality in heart failure
What are the key toxicities associated with Metoprolol?
Hypotension, Bradycardia, AV block, Dyslipidemia
What is the mechanism of action of Carteolol?
β-blocker
What are the key indications for Carteolol?
Open-angle glaucoma, Intraocular hypertension
What are the key toxicities associated with Carteolol?
Conjunctival hyperemia
What is the mechanism of action of Propranolol?
β-blocker, β1 = β2
What are the key indications for Propranolol?
Hypertension, Angina, Essential tremor, Migraine prophylaxis, Thyrotoxicosis, Supraventricular arrhythmias, also ventricular tachycardias
What are the key toxicities associated with Propranolol?
Bradycardia, AV block, COPD and asthma exacerbation, Vasospasm exacerbation in Prinzmetal angina
What is the mechanism of action of Sotalol?
β-blocker, K+ channel blocker
What are the key indications for Sotalol?
Ventricular arrhythmia, Atrial fibrillation/flutter
What are the key toxicities associated with Sotalol?
Torsades de pointes, β-blockade
What is the mechanism of action of Carvedilol?
α- and β-blocker
What are the key indications for Carvedilol?
Congestive heart failure, Hypertension, Antiarrhythmic
What are the key toxicities associated with Carvedilol?
Hypotension, Cardiovascular effects: bradycardia, etc.
What is the mechanism of action of Labetolol?
α- and β-blocker
What are the key indications for Labetolol?
Hypertension, Hypertensive emergencies such as in pregnancy
What are the key toxicities associated with Labetolol?
Orthostatic hypotension
What are Angiotensin II Antagonists also known as?
Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs)
ARBs are a class of medications that inhibit the action of angiotensin II.
Name three examples of Angiotensin II Antagonists.
- Losartan
- Candesartan
- Valsartan
These medications are commonly used to treat various cardiovascular conditions.
What is the key indication for Angiotensin II Antagonists?
- Hypertension
- Heart failure
- Diabetic kidney disease
These conditions are commonly treated with ARBs to manage blood pressure and protect kidney function.
What is a potential toxicity associated with Angiotensin II Antagonists?
- Hyperkalemia
- Teratogen
- ↓ Glomerular filtration rate (GFR)
- Hypotension
These toxicities can arise from the use of ARBs and require monitoring.
True or False: Angiotensin II Antagonists can cause hypotension.
True
Hypotension is a known side effect of ARBs due to their blood pressure-lowering effects.
What is the mechanism of action for Clonidine?
α2-agonist
Clonidine primarily works by stimulating alpha-2 adrenergic receptors in the brain.
List the key indications for Clonidine.
- Hypertension
- Attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD)
- Tourette syndrome
- Opioid withdrawal
Clonidine is used in various conditions, including management of ADHD and withdrawal symptoms.
What are the key toxicities associated with Clonidine?
- Depression of the CNS
- Respiratory depression
- Bradycardia
- Hypotension
- Miosis
The toxic effects can lead to severe complications if not monitored.
What is the mechanism of action for Doxazosin and Terazosin?
α1-blocker
These medications block alpha-1 adrenergic receptors, leading to vasodilation.
List the key indications for Doxazosin and Terazosin.
- Hypertension
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia symptoms
These drugs are often prescribed for hypertension and urinary issues related to prostate enlargement.
What is a key toxicity associated with Doxazosin and Terazosin?
- Orthostatic hypotension
- Urinary incontinence
Patients may experience dizziness upon standing due to blood pressure changes.
What is the mechanism of action for Amrinone and Milrinone?
Phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitor
What is the key indication for Amrinone and Milrinone?
Heart failure
What is a key toxicity associated with Amrinone and Milrinone?
Arrhythmia
What type of agonist is Dobutamine?
β- and α-agonist
What are the key indications for Dobutamine?
Heart failure, Tachyarrhythmia, Hypertension
What is a key toxicity associated with Dobutamine?
Tachyarrhythmia
What are the mechanisms of action for Dopamine?
Dopamine, β- and α-agonist
What is the key indication for Dopamine?
Low cardiac output/poor perfusion
What is a key toxicity associated with Dopamine?
Arrhythmia, Angina
What is the mechanism of action for Epinephrine?
β- and α-agonist
What are the key indications for Epinephrine?
Type I hypersensitivity reactions, Hypotension secondary to septic shock, Cardiac arrest
What are the key toxicities associated with Epinephrine?
Angina, Arrhythmia, Anxiety, Respiratory difficulties
What is the mechanism of action for Norepinephrine?
β- and α-agonist
What is the key indication for Norepinephrine?
Hypotension, Cardiac arrest, Septic shock
What are the key toxicities associated with Norepinephrine?
Hypertension, Bradycardia, Arrhythmia, Anxiety, Dyspnea
What is the mechanism of action for Phenylephrine?
α-agonist
What is a key indication for Phenylephrine?
Hypotension, Decongestant
What are the key toxicities associated with Phenylephrine?
Hypertension, Reflex bradycardia, Anxiety, Pulmonary edema
Fill in the blank: Dobutamine is a _______ agonist.
[β- and α-]
True or False: Norepinephrine can cause bradycardia.
True
What is the mechanism of action of Hydralazine?
↑ cGMP, leading to smooth muscle relaxation
Used primarily for severe hypertension and heart failure.
What are the key indications for using Nitroprusside?
Severe hypertension
Decompensated heart failure
It works by increasing cGMP.
What is a potential toxicity associated with Nitroprusside?
Hypotension
Cyanide toxicity (potential)
Careful monitoring is required due to the risk of cyanide toxicity.
What is the primary mechanism of action for Minoxidil?
Arteriolar vasodilator, opens K+ channels
Also indicated for androgenetic alopecia.
What are the key indications for Minoxidil?
Severe hypertension
Androgenetic alopecia
It can cause tachycardia and salt and water retention.
What are the side effects of Minoxidil?
Tachycardia
Salt and water retention
Hirsutism
These effects are due to its vasodilatory action.
What is the mechanism of action of Diazoxide?
Opens K+ channels in smooth muscle
It is used for severe hypertension and hypoglycemia in insulin-secreting tumors.
What are the key indications for Diazoxide?
Severe hypertension
Hypoglycemia in the setting of insulin-secreting tumors
It can cause hypotension and hyperglycemia.
What are the potential toxicities associated with Diazoxide?
Hypotension
Hyperglycemia
Monitoring is essential due to the risks involved.
What is the mechanism of action for Acetazolamide?
Carbonic anhydrase inhibitor
Used for conditions like edema, mountain sickness, glaucoma, and idiopathic intracranial hypertension.
What is a key indication for the use of Acetazolamide?
Edema
Mountain sickness
Glaucoma
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension (pseudotumor cerebri)
Acetazolamide has multiple indications including the management of mountain sickness.
What is a key toxicity associated with Acetazolamide?
Metabolic acidosis
Hyperammonemia
Paresthesias
Sulfa allergy
These toxicities can occur with the use of Acetazolamide.
What is the mechanism of action for Loop Diuretics?
Inhibit Na+/K+/2Cl− transporter of thick ascending limb of loop of Henle
This mechanism is crucial for their action in lowering blood pressure and reducing edema.
List three key indications for Loop Diuretics.
- Hypertension
- Edema due to heart failure
- Edema due to liver failure
- Edema due to nephrotic syndrome
- Hypercalcemia
Loop diuretics are used in various conditions related to fluid overload.
What is a key toxicity associated with Loop Diuretics?
Ototoxicity
Metabolic hypokalemic alkalosis
Hypovolemia
Sulfa allergy
Interstitial nephritis
Gout
These adverse effects are important to monitor during treatment.
What decreases the efficacy of Loop Diuretics?
Use with NSAIDs
The interaction between Loop Diuretics and NSAIDs can lead to reduced effectiveness.
What is the mechanism of action for Thiazide Diuretics?
NaCl reabsorption inhibitor in distal convoluted tubule
This mechanism helps to control blood pressure and manage fluid retention.
List two key indications for Thiazide Diuretics.
- Heart failure
- Edema
- Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus
- Calcium nephrolithiasis
Thiazide diuretics are commonly used in cardiovascular and renal conditions.
What is a key toxicity associated with Thiazide Diuretics?
Sulfa allergy
Hypokalemia
Hyper-uricemia
Hyperglycemia
Hypercalcemia
Hyperlipidemia
Metabolic alkalosis
These toxicities can significantly impact patient management.
What is the mechanism of action for Amiloride?
ENaC epithelial channel blocker in cortical collecting ducts
This mechanism is crucial for potassium-sparing effects.
List two key indications for Amiloride.
- Heart failure
- Hyperaldosteronism
- Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus
- States of K+ depletion (i.e., use of thiazides)
Amiloride is particularly useful in conditions leading to potassium loss.
What is a key toxicity associated with Amiloride?
Hyperkalemia
Hyperkalemia is a significant risk, especially in patients with renal impairment.
What is the mechanism of action for Spironolactone?
Aldosterone receptor blocker in cortical collecting ducts (in their cytoplasm)
This action helps manage conditions related to excess aldosterone.
List two key indications for Spironolactone.
- Heart failure
- Hyperaldosteronism
- Hepatic ascites
Spironolactone is often used in heart failure and conditions with fluid overload.
What is a key toxicity associated with Spironolactone?
Hyperkalemia
Gynecomastia
These side effects can affect patient compliance and treatment outcomes.
What are HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors commonly known as?
Statins
Statins are a class of drugs used to lower cholesterol levels.
What is the mechanism of action for Atorvastatin?
HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor
This mechanism reduces cholesterol production in the liver.
What is the key indication for using Atorvastatin?
Vascular disease secondary to atherosclerosis
Atorvastatin is primarily prescribed to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.
What are the key toxicities associated with HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors?
- Myopathy
- Hepatotoxicity
- Potential for teratogenicity
These side effects can vary in severity and impact patient safety.
Which HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitor is contraindicated in pregnancy?
All statins
Statins are known to have teratogenic effects.
What is the mechanism of action for Fenofibrate?
PPAR-α agonist, upregulates lipoprotein lipase
This action helps to reduce triglycerides and increase HDL levels.
What is the key indication for Fenofibrate?
Hypertriglyceridemia, low HDL cholesterol
Fenofibrate is used to manage specific lipid disorders.
What are the key toxicities associated with Fenofibrate?
- Myopathy
- Gallstones (cholesterol)
Patients must be monitored for these potential side effects.
What is the mechanism of action for Niacin?
Increases HDL and decreases LDL and triglycerides
Niacin is effective in improving overall lipid profiles.
What is the key indication for Niacin?
Dyslipidemia
Niacin is often used in combination therapy for lipid management.
What are the key toxicities associated with Niacin?
- Flushing
- Pruritis
- Hepatotoxicity
- Hyperuricemia
- Hyperglycemia
Flushing can be alleviated with NSAIDs.
True or False: Gemfibrozil is a PPAR-α agonist.
True
Gemfibrozil works similarly to Fenofibrate in lipid management.
What is the mechanism of action of Abciximab?
GpIIb/IIIa inhibitor
Used in unstable angina and prevention of cardiac ischemia in percutaneous coronary intervention.
What are the key toxicities associated with Abciximab?
Bleeding, Thrombocytopenia
These side effects are important to monitor in patients receiving this medication.
What is the key indication for Anagrelide?
Thrombocythemia in myeloproliferative disorders
Anagrelide is specifically used to lower platelet counts.
What are the side effects of Anagrelide?
Palpitations, Headache, Thrombocytopenia, Bleeding
Monitor for these effects during treatment.
What is the mechanism of action of Cilostazol?
Phosphodiesterase III inhibitor
Cilostazol is used for secondary ischemic stroke prevention and intermittent claudication.
List the key toxicities of Cilostazol.
Headache, Flushing, Hypotension
These side effects can impact patient compliance.
What is the main action of Aspirin?
Irreversible COX inhibitor that impairs TXA2 synthesis
Aspirin is widely used for treatment and prevention of arterial thrombosis.
What are the key toxicities associated with Aspirin?
Tinnitus, Gastrointestinal toxicity, Renal toxicity, Reye syndrome, Metabolic acidosis-respiratory alkalosis
Reye syndrome is a serious condition that can occur in children with viral infections.
What is the mechanism of action of Ticlopidine and Clopidogrel?
ADP-receptor antagonist
This action impairs the expression of GpIIb/IIIa receptors.
What are the key indications for Ticlopidine and Clopidogrel?
Acute coronary syndrome, Prevention of cardiac ischemia, Treatment and prevention of arterial thrombosis
These medications are crucial in managing cardiovascular events.
What is a potential toxicity of Ticlopidine?
Leukopenia
This side effect requires monitoring of blood counts.
What is the mechanism of action of Alteplase, Streptokinase, and Urokinase?
Aids in conversion of plasminogen to plasmin
These agents are used in thrombolytic therapy.
What are the key indications for thrombolytics like Alteplase?
Early myocardial infarction, Ischemic stroke, Pulmonary embolism
Timely administration is critical for effectiveness.
What is a common toxicity of thrombolytics?
Bleeding
Careful patient selection is essential to minimize this risk.
What is the action of Digoxin-Immune Fab?
Binds excess digoxin or digitoxin
This is used in cases of digoxin toxicity.
What is the indication for Albumin?
Blood volume expander, Antihyperbilirubinemic
It binds to various substances in the blood.
What are the key toxicities associated with Albumin?
Hypovolemia, Heart failure, Edema
Monitoring is necessary to prevent these complications.