Study 3 Heart Failure Medications with 12 free online flashcards. Review key terms, definitions, and concepts with this interactive flashcard deck.
How do heart failure medicines differ in their roles?
Loop diuretics relieve congestion, while ARNI/ACE inhibitor/ARB therapy, selected beta blockers, MRAs, and SGLT2 inhibitors can improve important outcomes for appropriate patients with HFrEF.
What is the main purpose of loop diuretics in heart failure?
Loop diuretics such as furosemide increase urine output, reducing excess fluid and helping relieve swelling or breathlessness.
What should be monitored when taking furosemide?
Monitoring may include blood pressure, weight, kidney function, and electrolytes such as potassium and magnesium. Report concerning dizziness, weakness, cramps, or reduced urination.
What is the required interval between an ACE inhibitor and sacubitril/valsartan?
Do not take sacubitril/valsartan with an ACE inhibitor or within 36 hours of the last ACE-inhibitor dose; the washout helps reduce angioedema risk.
What safety monitoring matters with sacubitril/valsartan?
With sacubitril/valsartan, monitor blood pressure, kidney function, and potassium as directed. Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing, requires emergency care.
What important electrolyte risk can spironolactone cause?
MRAs such as spironolactone can raise blood potassium, particularly with kidney impairment or other medicines that raise potassium.
What should a patient taking spironolactone do before using a potassium salt substitute?
Ask the prescriber or pharmacist first. Spironolactone can raise potassium, so potassium intake, kidney function, and blood potassium need attention.
Which beta blockers have evidence for HFrEF?
Carvedilol, bisoprolol, and extended-release metoprolol succinate are the beta blockers identified as evidence-based options for HFrEF.
How are evidence-based beta blockers generally started and adjusted?
They are generally started at a low dose and adjusted as tolerated under clinical guidance, considering stability, heart rate, and blood pressure. Do not stop abruptly without advice.
Do SGLT2 inhibitors benefit patients with HFrEF who do not have diabetes?
SGLT2 inhibitors can benefit people with HFrEF whether or not they have diabetes.
What safety concerns should be watched for with SGLT2 inhibitors?
Genital infections and volume depletion are important concerns. Contact the care team about possible infection or symptoms of dehydration or low blood pressure.
Which severe symptoms during SGLT2-inhibitor use warrant urgent assessment?
Severe nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or trouble breathing warrants urgent medical assessment because ketoacidosis can occur, sometimes without very high blood glucose.
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