Weird cardio drugs

Question 1

Bepridil

Answer 1

Old Ca++ channel blocker; nonselective, like Verapamil. Causes Torsades, no longer used.

Question 2

Nitrodilators

Answer 2

Organic nitrates: all reduce preload (venodilation) more than afterload (arteriolar dilation).

• Nitroglycerin: sublingual, 2-5 minute onset, short acting
• Isosorbide mono-, di-, tri-, tetranitrate: mononitrate can be given orally (~100% bioavailable). Longer onset and duration of action

Inorganic nitrate: more afterload than preload reduction.

• Sodium nitroprusside: used IV for hypertensive emergencies and severe heart failure.