Vasodilator

Vasodilator

A Vasodilator is a medication or substance that expands (dilates) blood vessels. This dilation can result in a decrease in blood pressure and an increase in blood flow to specific areas of the body.

Mechanism of Action

Vasodilators work by relaxing the smooth muscle in the walls of the arteries and veins, which causes the vessels to dilate. This dilation allows for increased blood flow and a reduction in blood pressure. There are several types of vasodilators, including nitrates, calcium channel blockers, and alpha-blockers, each of which works in a slightly different way to achieve this effect.

Uses

Vasodilators are used in the treatment of a variety of medical conditions, including high blood pressure (hypertension), angina pectoris, heart failure, and erectile dysfunction. They can also be used to treat certain types of headache, such as migraines.

Side Effects

Like all medications, vasodilators can have side effects. These can include headache, flushing, nausea, and dizziness. In rare cases, they can cause hypotension (low blood pressure), tachycardia (rapid heart rate), and edema (swelling due to fluid retention).

See Also

• Antihypertensive drug
• Vasoconstriction
• Vasopressin

References

Vasodilator Resources
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