Vasodilators
Uses
Classes
Vasodilators
- direct vasodilators act using a variety of mechanisms
- hydralazine: mechanism unknown
- sodium nitroprusside: increases smooth muscle cell [cGMP]
- minoxidil: opens K+ channels
- calcium channel blockers prevent SMC contraction
- can cause orthostatic hypotension
- nifedipine: acts primarily on VSMCs
- diltiazem, verapamil: acts on cardiomyocytes and VSMCs
Mechanism
Dose and Half Life
Adverse Drug Reactions
short term
long term
Counter-Indications and Drug Interactions
Metabolism and Excretion
Dependency
