Chapter 2 Book Antihypertensive Therapies Notes

What is hypertension?

High blood pressure due to the heart pumping too hard or blood vessels being too tight.

What are the main goals in treating high blood pressure?

To get blood pressure below 140/90 mmHg.

What do diuretics do?

Helps the body get rid of extra salt and water, lowering blood pressure.

Give an example of a diuretic.

Hydrochlorothiazide.

How do beta blockers affect the heart?

Slows the heart and make it pump with less strength, so the heart works less.

When are beta blockers most effective?

They are best for younger people or those with fast heartbeats.

What are ACE Inhibitors/ARBs used for?

They block angiotensin II, relaxing blood vessels.

Provide an example of an ACE Inhibitor.

Lisinopril.

What is a common example of an ARB?

Losartan.

What do calcium channel blockers do?

They stop calcium from entering heart and blood vessel cells, relaxing blood vessels and sometimes slowing the heart.

Name a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker.

Amlodipine.

What is a non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker?

Verapamil.

How do alpha blockers work?

They open up blood vessels by blocking alpha receptors.

Name a common alpha blocker.

Doxazosin.

What do vasodilators do?

It directly relax blood vessels.

Provide an example of a vasodilator.

Hydralazine.

What defines resistant hypertension?

High blood pressure that stays high after using 3 drugs.

Which add-on medication is considered best for resistant hypertension?

Spironolactone.

What are some common side effects of diuretics?

Peeing a lot, low potassium, and dehydration.

What side effects are associated with beta blockers?

Tiredness, slow heart rate, and cold hands/feet.

Just like ACE inhibitors, what is a common side effect of ARBs?

High potassium levels, but they do not cause a cough.

What are the treatment approaches to manage high blood pressure?

Lowering fluid amounts, opening blood vessels, or slowing the heart; often requires multiple drugs.