Vasodilators

Question 1

What is the main risk associated with vasodilators?

Answer 1

Hypotension

Question 2

What is the underlying cause of postural hypotension?

Answer 2

Relaxation of smooth muscle in veins

Question 3

What does Hydralazine affect?

Answer 3

Selective dilation of arterioles. It has little to no effect on veins so there is little effect of postural hypotension with Hydralazine.

Question 4

What autoimmune syndrome can Hydralazine mimic?

Answer 4

Acute rheumatoid syndrome that resembles lupus (SLE)

Question 5

Which vasodilator is known for its intense vasodilation? When is it used?

Answer 5

Minoxidil causes intense vasodilation and is reserved for pts with severe HTN who have not been responsive to safer drugs.

Question 6

What are SE of minoxidil?

Answer 6

Reflex tachycardia, sodium and water retention, and hypertrichosis (excessive hair growth)

Question 7

What education should be provided to patients on vasodilators?

Answer 7

Educate on postural hypotension

Question 8

What are indications for vasodilators?

Answer 8

HTN & HF

Question 9

What are SE of Hydralazine?

Answer 9

Reflex tachycardia, SLE like syndrome, and increased blood volume

Question 10

What is the Black Box Warning for Minoxidil?

Answer 10

It can cause pericardial effusion, occasionally progressing to tamponade, and may exacerbate angina pectoris.