Introduction Sodium nitroprusside is a potent, short‑acting inorganic nitrovasodilator that has been employed in clinical practice for several decades. Its capacity to induce rapid arterial and venous dilation renders it invaluable in the management of hypertensive emergencies, acute heart failure, and certain perioperative hemodynamic perturbations. The compound is typically administered by intravenous infusion, with dose…
Introduction Hydralazine is a direct-acting vasodilator that has been utilized in the management of hypertension and congestive heart failure for several decades. Initially introduced in the 1950s as an oral antihypertensive agent, its therapeutic profile has expanded to include intravenous formulations for acute hypertensive emergencies and adjunctive use in heart failure protocols. The drug’s distinctive…
Introduction / Overview Nimodipine is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker that has been widely adopted in the management of cerebrovascular disorders, particularly following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). The drug’s selective affinity for cerebral vasculature, combined with its favorable pharmacokinetic profile, renders it a cornerstone therapy in preventing delayed cerebral ischemia. This chapter aims to provide…
Introduction / Overview Nifedipine is a widely used dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker (CCB) that has been incorporated into clinical practice for several decades. The medication is primarily indicated for the management of systemic arterial hypertension and angina pectoris, and its pharmacologic properties have found application across a range of cardiovascular conditions. The clinical relevance of…
Introduction / Overview Valsartan is a widely employed angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that has become integral to the management of hypertension and heart failure. Its pharmacologic profile, characterized by potent and selective antagonism of the angiotensin II type 1 receptor, has contributed to a broad therapeutic spectrum. The relevance of valsartan stems from its…
Introduction/Overview Telmisartan is a widely utilized selective antagonist of the angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptor, belonging to the class of angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). It is predominantly indicated for the management of essential hypertension and for the reduction of cardiovascular events in patients with hypertension who are at high risk of myocardial infarction…
1. Introduction 1.1 Definition and Overview Acetazolamide is a sulfonamide derivative that functions as a reversible inhibitor of carbonic anhydrase (CA). By blocking the enzymatic conversion of carbon dioxide and water into bicarbonate and protons, it induces diuresis and alters acid–base balance. The drug is administered orally or intravenously and is available in multiple dosage…
Introduction Dextromethorphan (DXM) is a synthetic member of the piperidine family that functions primarily as an antitussive agent. Its chemical designation is (‑)-3,4‑dihydro‑2,6-dimethyl‑1,3‑piperidyl‑4‑methoxy‑1‑phenyl‑2‑butanone, and it is the major active enantiomer of the racemic mixture found in most over‑the‑counter cough preparations. DXM is widely utilized for the suppression of non‑productive cough, particularly in the upper respiratory…
1. Introduction Acetylcysteine, also known as N‑acetylcysteine (NAC), is a semi‑synthetic derivative of the naturally occurring amino acid L‑cysteine. It functions as a mucolytic agent, an antioxidant, and a precursor to glutathione synthesis. The compound was first isolated in the late 19th century, but its therapeutic potential was not fully appreciated until the mid‑20th century…
Introduction Definition and Overview Fluticasone is a synthetic, high‑potency corticosteroid belonging to the class of glucocorticoids. It is available in multiple formulations, including inhaled solutions for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), nasal sprays for allergic rhinitis, and topical creams for dermatologic conditions. The drug exerts anti‑inflammatory, anti‑immunologic, and vasoconstrictive effects through modulation of…