Drugs Affecting The Rhythm & Output of The Heart

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to drugs affecting heart rhythm and output, established for exam preparation.

Digitalis

A cardiac glycoside used to improve myocardial function and cardiac output.

Cardiac glycosides

A group of drugs that strengthen heart contractions and enhance cardiac output.

Glycosides

Chemicals that comprise a sugar molecule, altering solubility and modifying toxicity.

Lactone

The part of the digitalis molecule responsible for its cardiotonic properties.

Digitoxin

A glycoside obtained from the purple foxglove, used therapeutically.

Digoxin

An active glycoside from white foxglove, known for its therapeutic properties.

Cardioactive glycosides

Drugs that alter the electrical properties of the myocardium.

Vagus nerve

A part of the autonomic nervous system that influences the heart rate.

Cardiac output

The volume of blood the heart pumps in a given period, improved by digitalis.

Atrial Fibrillation

Rapid contraction of the atria leading to irregular ventricular contractions.

Contraindications for digitalis

Heart block, renal impairment, and certain arrhythmias.

Lignocaine

A drug that suppresses heart muscle excitability and treats arrhythmias.

Diuretics

Medications that increase urine production, often prescribed for heart conditions.

ACE inhibitors

Drugs that relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure, improving heart function.

Beta blockers

Medications that reduce heart rate and workload, used in heart failure and hypertension.

Calcium channel blockers

Drugs that prevent calcium ions from entering heart cells, reducing contraction force.

Anticoagulants

Medications that inhibit blood clotting to prevent complications from thromboembolic disorders.

Hemostasis

The process of blood clotting, which can be influenced by anticoagulant drugs.

Electrolyte imbalance

A condition often seen with diuretics, leading to disturbances in ionic concentrations.

Pharmacodynamics of digoxin

Digoxin increases myocardial contractions while decreasing heart rate.