Drugs

Question 1

Diltizem (Cardizem)

Answer 1

Calcium channel blocker

(used for to treat hypertension)

Question 2

What do calcium channel blockers do?

Answer 2

Antihypertensive agent: inhibits calcium needed for muscle contraction which results in vasodilation

(note: most calcium channel blockers end in -pine except diltiazem and verapamil)

Question 3

Hydrochlorothiazide

Answer 3

a diuretic drug

Question 4

Why is a diuretic drug given

Answer 4

It’s a first line of therapy for hypertension.

(they limit sodium re-uptake resulting in water excretion)

Question 5

Propranolol (Inderal)

Answer 5

a selective beta blocker

(ends in -olol)

Question 6

Why is a beta blocker given?

Answer 6

reduces cardiac output

Question 7

ASA guidelines: which heart conditions require premedication?

Answer 7

Artificial heart valve

History of infective endocarditis

heart defect remains after surgery

prosthetic repair within six months

unrepaired congenital heart disease (shunts)

Question 8

Nifedipine

Answer 8

Calcium channel blocker used to treat hypertension