Hydralazine (Apresoline)

Question 1

Classification:

Answer 1

• Antihypertensive agent
• Vasodilator

Question 2

Action:

Answer 2

• Directly dilates the peripheral blood vessels

Question 3

Indications:

Answer 3

• HTN associated w/ preeclampsia and eclampsia
• Hypertensive crisis

Question 4

Adverse Effects:

Answer 4

• Headache
• Angina
• Flushing
• Palpitations
• Reflex tachycardia
• Anorexia
• Nausea/vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Hypotension
• Syncope
• Peripheral vasodilation
• Peripheral edema
• Fluid retention
• Paresthesias

Question 5

Contraindications:

Answer 5

• Pts taking diazoxide or MAOIs
• Coronary artery disease
• Stroke
• Angina
• Dissecting aortic aneurysm
• Mitral valve and rheumatic heart diseases

Question 6

Dosage (Adult)
Preeclampsia and Eclampsia:

Answer 6

• 5 to 10 mg IV
• Repeat every 20 to 30 mins until systolic BP of 90-105 is attained

Question 7

Dosage (Adult)
Acute Hypertension Not Associated W/ Preeclampsia:

Answer 7

• 10 to 20 mg IV, IM

Question 8

Dosage (Pediatric)
1 month to 12 years:

Answer 8

• 0.1 to 0.2 mg/kg IV or IM every 4-6 hours as needed
• Max dose: 20 mg/dose