Vasodilators

Vasodilators

Medications that directly affect the smooth muscle of arteries and are used to treat hypertension.

Hydralazine

A direct-acting vasodilator that relaxes smooth muscle of arteries by inhibiting intracellular calcium release.

Mechanism of Action

Hydralazine inhibits intracellular calcium release, leading to vasodilation, decreased peripheral vascular resistance, and lowered blood pressure.

Common Side Effects of Hydralazine

Hypotension, reflex tachycardia, flushing, headache, and dizziness.

Serious Side Effects of Hydralazine

Peripheral edema, pulmonary edema, dyspnea, and lupus-like symptoms.

Contraindications for Hydralazine

Certain cardiovascular diseases, cerebrovascular diseases, and septic shock due to risk of increased myocardial oxygen demand or increased intracranial pressure.

Nursing Considerations for Hydralazine

Assess for contraindications, perform a baseline assessment, review lab results, monitor blood pressure and heart rate, and evaluate effectiveness of therapy.

Patient Education for Hydralazine

Teach safe medication administration, importance of not abruptly stopping medication, and how to monitor blood pressure and heart rate.

Lupus-like Symptoms

Symptoms including malaise, myalgia, and fever that can arise from hydralazine use.

Reflex Tachycardia

Increased heart rate in response to decreased peripheral vascular resistance and hypotension.