Pharmacology Review: Pharmacokinetics, Drugs, and Regulations

What is the primary mechanism of action of ACE inhibitors?

They block the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II.

Which class of antihypertensives is most likely to cause a persistent dry cough?

ACE inhibitors

Which calcium channel blocker primarily affects the heart rather than just the blood vessels?

Verapamil

Which diuretic is considered potassium-sparing?

Spironolactone

What is the purpose of the FDA drug approval process?

To ensure drug safety, efficacy, and quality before market release.

What is an agonist?

A substance that binds to a receptor and activates it to produce a biological response.

What is the major caution when prescribing opioids?

Asthma (risk of respiratory depression)

What is the first-pass effect?

The liver metabolizes a drug before it reaches systemic circulation, reducing bioavailability.

What is the primary mechanism of action of opioids?

Binding to mu-opioid receptors

Which opioid is considered the 'gold standard' for comparison?

Morphine

Which opioid is commonly combined with acetaminophen in dentistry?

Oxycodone (e.g., Percocet)

Which opioid is the strongest?

Fentanyl

What are the common adverse effects of ACE inhibitors?

Persistent cough and angioedema

What is the role of thiazide diuretics in hypertension treatment?

They are often used as first-line treatment.

Why might an ACE inhibitor or ARB be preferred in a patient with both hypertension and diabetes?

They provide renal protection by reducing intraglomerular pressure.

What is a common side effect of beta blockers?

Bradycardia

What is the effect of calcium channel blockers on blood vessels?

They cause vasodilation.

What is a major concern when discontinuing clonidine?

Risk of rebound hypertension

What is the effect of diuretics on blood pressure?

They help lower blood pressure by reducing blood volume.

What is the mechanism of action of ARBs?

They block the action of angiotensin II at its receptor.

What is the mechanism of action of ACE inhibitors?

They inhibit the angiotensin-converting enzyme, reducing the production of angiotensin II, leading to vasodilation.

What are common side effects of ACE inhibitors?

Cough, elevated potassium levels, and angioedema.

Which class of medications is commonly used as first-line treatment for hypertension?

Thiazide diuretics.

What is the primary action of beta-blockers in hypertension management?

They reduce heart rate and cardiac output.

What are common side effects of beta-blockers?

Fatigue, dizziness, and bradycardia.

What is the role of calcium channel blockers in hypertension?

They relax blood vessels by inhibiting calcium entry into vascular smooth muscle.

What are common side effects of calcium channel blockers?

Swelling in the legs, dizziness, and flushing.

What is the mechanism of action of angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)?

They block the action of angiotensin II at its receptor sites, leading to vasodilation.

What are common side effects of ARBs?

Dizziness, elevated potassium levels, and renal impairment.

What is the purpose of using diuretics in hypertension treatment?

They help reduce blood volume, which lowers blood pressure.

What is a common diuretic used for hypertension?

Hydrochlorothiazide.

What are the contraindications for using beta-blockers?

Asthma, severe bradycardia, and certain heart block conditions.

What lifestyle modifications can help manage hypertension?

Diet changes, regular exercise, weight loss, and reducing sodium intake.

What is the effect of vasodilators in hypertension treatment?

They directly relax blood vessels, lowering blood pressure.

What is a common vasodilator used for hypertension?

Hydralazine.

What is the mechanism of action of aldosterone antagonists?

They block the effects of aldosterone, leading to increased sodium and water excretion.

What is a common aldosterone antagonist?

Spironolactone.

What is the significance of monitoring potassium levels in patients on ACE inhibitors?

ACE inhibitors can increase potassium levels, leading to hyperkalemia.

What are the potential effects of untreated hypertension?

Heart disease, stroke, kidney damage, and vision loss.