Cardiovascular Pharmacology Concepts

Richard E. Klabunde, Ph.D.

Tutorial - Pressor Drugs

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1. What are "pressor" drugs and for what conditions are they used?  click here

2. What is the rationale for stimulating the heart and constricting the systemic vasculature in the treatment of arterial hypotension?  click here

3. What is the difference between sympathomimetic and non-sympathomimetic pressor drugs in terms of how they act?  click here

4. What signal transduction pathways are activated for the following sympathomimetic receptor agonists, and how do these drugs increase arterial pressure?
       -  alpha-adrenoceptor agonists
       -  beta-adrenoceptor agonists

5. Why are sympathomimetic drugs contraindicated in patients having coronary artery disease?  click here

6. How are vasopressin analogs used in the treatment of hypotension associated with hypovolemic, cardiogenic and septic shock?  click here

7. What is the mechanism of action of vasopressin analogs?  click here

 Revised 08/29/06 

DISCLAIMER: These materials are for educational purposes only, and are not a source of medical decision-making advice.

© 2005-2008Ed  Richard E. Klabunde, all rights reserved.