Antianginals

Brand/Generic Drug Names

amyl nitrate, isosorbide, Nitro-Tabs/nitroglycerin, atenolol, dipyramidole, metoprolol, propranolol, amlodipine, Cardizem/diltiazem, Procardia/nifedipine, Calan/verapamil
Common uses
chronic stable angina pectoris, unstable angina, vasospastic angina; some are used in dysrhythmias and hypertension
Pharmacology
Nitrates: dilate coronary and systemic arteries, causing decreased pre- and afterload Calcium channel blockers: dilate coronary arteries, decrease SA/AV node conduction beta-adrenergic blockers: decrease heart rate to decrease myocardial oxygen use dipyramidole: selectively dilates coronary arteries to increase coronary blood flow
Class contraindications
known hypersensitivity, increased intracranial pressure, cerebral hemorrhage
Class precautions
postural hypotension, pregnancy, lactation, children, renal disease, hepatic injury
Interactions
varies by drug
Adverse Reactions
postural hypotension, headache, flushing, dizziness, nausea, edema, drowsiness, rash, dysrhythmias, fatigue
Additional Information
Assess orthostatic blood pressure, pulses
Assess pain: duration, onset, character, activity at onset
Evaluate therapeutic response: decrease/prevention of pain
Date of most recent Update
August 06, 2002
Further information is available in the writeup for the specific name(s) of this medication class

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