Exam II: Adrenergic Antagonists

Question 1

What is the difference between a reversible and irreversible antagonist?

Answer 1

A reversible antagonist can become dissociated if agonist is present in high enough concentration

Irreversible antagonists form covalent bonds and permanently block receptor. Must wait for new receptors to be formed (may take days)

Question 2

How do alpha receptor antagonists effect the cardiovascular system? (HINT: The main effect, 3 other effects)

Answer 2

Since they block vasoconstriction –> dec. BP

Others:

1. Miosis
2. Sinus congestion
3. Facilitate urination

Question 3

What can a decrease in BP also cause when one is taking alpha receptor antagonists?

Answer 3

Dec. in BP can lead to orthostatic hypotension and reflex tachycardia

Question 4

What are the 7 main uses of beta blockers?

Answer 4

1. Hypertension
2. Ischemic heart disease
3. Arrhythmias
4. Heart failure
5. Glaucoma
6. Migraine headaches
7. Performance Anxiety

Question 5

Using beta blockers to treat HTN: When is it considered “1st line” and what are some drug examples?

Answer 5

When pt has compelling indications: Heart failure, post-MI angina, diabetes

Atenolol
Bisoprolol
Metoprolol
Nadolol
Pindolol

Question 6

What is ischemic heart disease and what do beta blockers do to treat it?

Answer 6

IHD occurs when cholesterol lines cardiac arteries therefore decreasing blood flow and oxygen delivery.

Beta blockers slow HR and dec. strength of heart squeeze

Question 7

When is a beta blocker considered the 1st line treatment in someone with IHD?

Answer 7

At risk or after an MI

Have a hx of angina or left ventricular dysfunction

Question 8

Beta blockers that treat IHD: (2)

Answer 8

Proprandolol

Metoprolol

Question 9

What type of arrhythmias do beta blockers treat and what are 2 drugs that can be used to treat it

Answer 9

Tx atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter

Metoprolol
Sotalol