Hydralazine is a vasodilator typically given to achieve which effect?

Hydralazine is a vasodilator typically given to achieve which effect?

• A. Increase Blood Pressure
• B. Lower Blood Pressure
• C. Increase Heart Rate
• D. Elevate Respirations

Answer: (B)

Hydralazine is a direct-acting arteriolar vasodilator that relaxes smooth muscle in small arteries, lowering systemic vascular resistance and afterload. This reduction in resistance leads to a drop in blood pressure, which is the intended effect when treating hypertension or hypertensive emergencies. Be aware that the body may respond with reflex tachycardia and fluid retention, so it’s often paired with a beta-blocker or diuretic to counteract those responses.

Hydralazine is a direct-acting arteriolar vasodilator that relaxes smooth muscle in small arteries, lowering systemic vascular resistance and afterload. This reduction in resistance leads to a drop in blood pressure, which is the intended effect when treating hypertension or hypertensive emergencies. Be aware that the body may respond with reflex tachycardia and fluid retention, so it’s often paired with a beta-blocker or diuretic to counteract those responses.