02 Cardiovascular Medications Free Online FlashCards

How can you distinguish ACE inhibitors from ARBs by name, and what combination is generally avoided?

ACE inhibitors end in -pril and ARBs end in -sartan. Both can raise potassium, and they are generally not combined.

Which dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker may cause peripheral edema?

Amlodipine is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker used for hypertension and angina; it may cause peripheral edema.

What cardiac conduction effect distinguishes diltiazem among calcium channel blockers?

Diltiazem slows AV-node conduction and heart rate. It is used for hypertension, angina, and selected arrhythmias.

What electrolyte changes may thiazide-type diuretics cause?

Thiazide-type diuretics, such as chlorthalidone and hydrochlorothiazide, are used for hypertension and may lower potassium and sodium.

How does sublingual nitroglycerin differ from long-acting nitroglycerin?

Sublingual nitroglycerin treats an acute angina episode or may be used before a predictable trigger; long-acting forms help prevent episodes.

What serious risk arises from combining nitrates with sildenafil?

Combining nitrates with phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors such as sildenafil can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure.

Is ranolazine appropriate for immediate relief of an acute angina attack?

Ranolazine is used for chronic angina, but it does not provide immediate relief during an acute attack.

What four medication groups form the foundation of HFrEF therapy?

Foundational groups include an ARNI or an ACE inhibitor/ARB when appropriate, an evidence-based beta blocker, an MRA, and an SGLT2 inhibitor.

What is the main role of loop diuretics in heart failure?

Loop diuretics such as furosemide relieve edema and pulmonary congestion. They primarily relieve symptoms rather than target disease progression and outcomes.

What important switching precaution applies to sacubitril/valsartan and ACE inhibitors?

Sacubitril/valsartan is an ARNI used for HFrEF. It must not be taken with an ACE inhibitor; a washout period is required when switching.

Which tachycardia can adenosine acutely convert, and which rhythms does it not convert to sinus rhythm?

Adenosine can acutely convert certain regular paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardias, but it does not convert atrial fibrillation or flutter to sinus rhythm.

What important arrhythmia risk is associated with sotalol?

Sotalol can prolong the QT interval and cause torsades de pointes.