Medication Therapy For Hypertension

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms related to medication therapy for hypertension, including drug classifications, mechanisms of action, and important concepts in the management of high blood pressure.

Perfusion

The process of delivering blood to the capillary tissues.

Antihypertensive Agents

Medications used to treat high blood pressure, classified into various categories such as diuretics, ACE inhibitors, and beta-blockers.

ACE inhibitors

Medications that inhibit the Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme, leading to decreased blood pressure by preventing the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II.

Diuretics

Medications that increase urine production to reduce fluid overload and lower blood pressure.

Beta-blockers

Drugs that reduce heart rate and contractility by blocking beta-adrenergic receptors.

Calcium Channel Blockers (CCBs)

Medications that block calcium from entering cells of the heart and blood vessels, relaxing the blood vessels and reducing blood pressure.

Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs)

Medications that prevent angiotensin II from exerting its effects on tissues, leading to vasodilation and lower blood pressure.

Vasodilators

Drugs that relax and widen blood vessels to lower blood pressure.

Rebound hypertension

A significant increase in blood pressure that can occur after the withdrawal of antihypertensive medication.

First-dose hypotension

A profound drop in blood pressure that can occur following the first dose of certain antihypertensive medications.