Drugs Affecting the Cardiovascular and Renal Systems - Nitrates

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the pharmacology of nitrates within cardiovascular therapy.

Nitrates

A class of drugs, including nitroglycerin, used to treat angina by relaxing vascular smooth muscle and promoting vasodilation.

Stable angina

Chest pain due to reduced blood flow to the heart, relieved by nitrates.

Guanyl cyclase

An enzyme activated by nitric oxide that leads to increased levels of cyclic GMP resulting in muscle relaxation.

Cyclic GMP

A second messenger that mediates the effects of nitric oxide, leading to vasodilation.

Vasodilation

The widening of blood vessels, resulting in decreased vascular resistance and preload.

Sublingual nitroglycerin

A fast-acting form of nitroglycerin absorbed under the tongue, used for acute anginal attacks.

First pass effect

The metabolic process by which the concentration of a drug is greatly reduced before it reaches systemic circulation.

Tachyphylaxis

A rapid decrease in the response to a drug after initial administration, often seen with nitrates.

Isosorbide dinitrate

An active metabolite of nitroglycerin that is used for long-term management of angina.

Contraindications for nitrates

Conditions such as closed-angle glaucoma and pregnancy where nitrates should not be used.

Intermittent schedule

Dosing regimen that allows for drug-free intervals to prevent tolerance.

Adverse effects of nitrates

Common side effects include headache, orthostatic hypotension, and reflex tachycardia.

Drug interactions with nitrates

Caution should be taken with other blood pressure-lowering medications and PDE5 inhibitors used for erectile dysfunction.

Patient education for nitrates

Patients should be informed about the timing of doses, potential side effects, and the importance of keeping nitrates dry and protected.