Pharmacology of Hypertension

Question 1

What is the therapeutic objective of patient with hypertension?

Answer 1

reduce BP

reduce cardiovascular risk associated with increased morbidity and mortality

Question 2

What are the most commonly prescribed calcium channel blockers?

Answer 2

amlodipine

felodipine

Question 3

Compare amlodipine (A) and felodipine (F).

Answer 3

A slow onset, longer half life

F dose dependent decrease in SBP/DBP, causes reflex tachycardia

Question 4

Why are ACE inhibitors typically used ahead of angiotensin receptor blockers in hypertension treatment?

Answer 4

cost

ACE inhibitors are most effective

Question 5

List 3 vascular effects of thiazide like diuretics.

Answer 5

decrease blood volume
decrease venous return
decrease cardiac output

Question 6

The kidney becomes tolerant to diuretics because of?

Answer 6

rebound activation of the renin angiotensin system which counteracts the diuretic effect due to increasing sodium reabsorption.

Question 7

Continuing anti-hypertensive effects of thiazides after kidney tolerance is due to?

Answer 7

a further vasodilating action