hidralasiini

Hydralazine is a medication primarily used to treat high blood pressure. It belongs to a class of drugs known as vasodilators, which work by relaxing and widening blood vessels. This relaxation allows blood to flow more easily, thereby lowering blood pressure. Hydralazine is often prescribed in combination with other antihypertensive medications, especially for moderate to severe hypertension that is not adequately controlled by other treatments. It can also be used as a component of treatment for heart failure in certain patients, particularly when combined with other heart failure medications.

The mechanism of action for hydralazine involves direct relaxation of vascular smooth muscle. It is thought to interfere with the influx of calcium into smooth muscle cells, which is essential for muscle contraction. This leads to a decrease in peripheral vascular resistance. While effective in lowering blood pressure, hydralazine can also cause side effects. Common side effects include headache, nausea, vomiting, rapid heart rate (tachycardia), and flushing. More serious, though less common, side effects can include a lupus-like syndrome, characterized by joint pain, fever, and skin rashes, which typically resolves upon discontinuation of the medication. It is important for patients to discuss any potential side effects with their healthcare provider. Hydralazine is administered orally or intravenously.