Vasodilators
Zsotér, T.T.
Canadian Medical Association Journal 129(5): 424-428; 432
1983
ISSN/ISBN: 0008-4409 PMID: 6349763 Document Number: 212296
This article reviews the types, mechanisms of action and therapeutic applications of currently used vasodilators. Vasodilators have little value if there is vascular obstruction but are effective in the treatment of systemic hypertension and of myocardial ischemia and heart failure. Since the various groups of vasodilators have widely different actions on the coronary arteries, the peripheral arterial circulation and venous tone, an understanding of the specific modes of action and of the systemic effects of these drugs is essential if they are to be used appropriately and their side effects minimized.