Editing Haemodynamic drugs (section)

== '''Vasodilators''' ==

* Reduces both preload and afterload - reduces metabolic demands of myocardium
* Useful with poorly controlled HTN immediately post-op
* '''Nitroprusside'''
** Effective vasodilator on artery and veins
** Rapid onset and offset
** 0.5microg/kg/min then titrate up
** Favoured in hypertensive emergencies
** Risk of cyanide intoxication
* '''Nitroglycerin'''
** Predominately venodilation, but also arteries
** Dilates coronary arteries - preferable in CAD
** Used to augment cardiac output in decompensated heart failure and to relieve chest pain in patients with stable angina