Medications Affecting Blood Pressure

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to medications affecting blood pressure, their mechanisms, uses, and side effects.

Hypertension

A medical condition characterized by consistently elevated blood pressure.

SBP

Systolic Blood Pressure, the top number in a blood pressure measurement.

DBP

Diastolic Blood Pressure, the bottom number in a blood pressure measurement.

ECG

Electrocardiogram, a medical test that records the electrical activity of the heart.

Angiotensin II

A hormone that increases blood pressure by inducing vasoconstriction and stimulating aldosterone secretion.

ACE Inhibitors

Medications that block the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, lowering blood pressure.

Aldosterone Antagonists

Medications that block aldosterone, promoting sodium excretion and potassium retention.

Therapeutic Uses

Indications for medications, including hypertension, heart failure, and kidney disease.

Hyperkalemia

An elevated level of potassium in the blood, which can be a side effect of certain antihypertensive medications.

Direct Renin Inhibitors

Medications that block renin production to lower blood pressure.

Vasodilators

Medications that relax and widen blood vessels, used to treat high blood pressure.

Beta Blockers

Medications that reduce heart rate and dilate blood vessels to lower blood pressure.

Alpha-1 Blockers

Medications that block alpha-1 adrenergic receptors, leading to relaxation of blood vessels.

Dizziness

A common side effect of antihypertensive medications, often requiring clients to rise slowly.

Orthostatic Hypotension

A drop in blood pressure that occurs when standing up, often seen in clients on antihypertensive medications.

Angioedema

Swelling of the tongue and pharynx, potentially a serious side effect of ACE inhibitors.

Complications

Adverse effects associated with medications that may require monitoring or intervention.

Cardioprotective

Referring to medications that help protect the heart from damage during conditions like hypertension.

Kidney protective

Referring to medications that prevent kidney damage, particularly in diabetic clients.

First-dose orthostatic hypotension

A significant drop in blood pressure occurring after the first dose of certain antihypertensive medications.