How does vasoconstrictor drugs treat hypertension?
June 23rd, 2008 | by Pressurized |Tomc asked:
If vasoconstriction refers to the narrowing of the blood vessels, thus, increasing blood pressure, how come some anti-hypertensive drugs are called vasoconstrictors?
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If vasoconstriction refers to the narrowing of the blood vessels, thus, increasing blood pressure, how come some anti-hypertensive drugs are called vasoconstrictors?
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4 Responses to “How does vasoconstrictor drugs treat hypertension?”
By ? on Jun 23, 2008 | Reply
they arent called vasoconstrictors
By evanbartlett on Jun 25, 2008 | Reply
Vasoconstrictors do NOT treat hypertension — they exacerbate it. Examples of common vasoconstrictors are nicotine and caffeine. Both cause a constriction of the blood vessels, which means that blood has to be pushed harder to get through the narrowed channels, ultimately increasing blood pressure.
Hypertension is treated by 1.) decreasing external stimuli that cause constriction of the blood vessels, 2.) medication that forces the loosening of blood vessels and/or slightly weakens the heart to slow blood flow.
By Debra L on Jun 27, 2008 | Reply
Can you name some antihypertensives which are classified as vasoconstrictors? Maybe vasodilators????
By "Misinformed" on Jun 30, 2008 | Reply
Vasoconstrictor drugs are normally used in combination with anesthetics.It decreases the blood flow, and delays systemic absorption of anesthesia thereby prolong anesthesia and reduce the risk of toxicity.You must be refering to vasodialator drugs.