Question

Compare and contrast the prototype drugs captopril, losartan, diltiazem, and nitroprusside. After that then discuss how drugs within each class compare to each other and with drugs in other classifications. Describe the similarities and differences among the medications affecting blood pressure.

Answer 1

Captopril - It is in the group of Angiotensin I inhibitor. Decrease blood pressure by decreasing aldosterone production and by an increase in serum potassium levels and increase the fluid loss.

Losartan - It is Angiotensin receptor blocker acts on the smooth muscle cells which inhibits the vasoconstriction and release of aldosterone.

Diltiazem: It is a calcium channel blocker which decreases the BP by decreasing the workload of the heart and minimizes the oxygen consumption of myocardium.

Nitroprusside: It acts on the smooth muscle cells and causes vasodilatation and thereby decreasing the blood pressure.

Group of drugs within each class act wisely and mechanism of action of each classification of drugs differ but all produce the same effects of decreasing the blood pressure. Angiotensin I inhibitor works by inhibiting the aldosterone production, whereas Angiotensin receptor blocks the conversion of angiotensin I into angiotensin II. Diltiazem and Nitroprusside decrease the blood pressure by acting on the blood vessels.