Drugs That Lower Blood
Pressure and Improve Heart Performance
(Vasolidators)
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Vasodilators are sometimes also called direct vasodilators.
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The Generic (common) Name of the drug is
listed first, followed by a specific Product (brand) Name,
which is an example of that generic drug. To learn more
about an individual drug, click on its Generic Name or
Product Name.
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Examples:
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What are
vasodilator drugs?
These drugs help your blood vessels relax and open. They are
used to lower blood pressure and to improve blood flow to
the heart muscle and other organs.
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Why are they
given?
The doctor determines that the patient's blood pressure is
too high and/or that improved blood flow through the vessels
to the heart is needed.
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How long are
they used?
Some of these drugs, for example nitroprusside, are used for
a short time only. This is normally limited to several days.
Other drugs may be used for a longer time, particularly if
there is decreased blood flow to the heart. Under these
circumstances, some forms of these drugs may be used for the
rest of the patient's life.
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Do they have
side effects?
Side effects do occur. Occasionally, the blood pressure is
lowered too much with these agents and the doctor usually
relieves this problem by reducing the dose. Patients may
develop headaches while receiving these drugs.
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