The pharmacology of antihypertensive medicines

Abstract

The lecture presents contemporary view on the human cardiovascular system organization. The mechanisms determining the systemic blood pressure level are shown; the factors regulating minute volume of blood circulation and peripheral resistance to blood flow are described. The mechanisms of neurogenic and basal vascular tone are noted, the role of humoral and endothelial regulation mechanisms of the artery lumen s is indicated. Based on the recent evidences of the circulatory system functioning, we gave a description of the main medicinal compounds used in clinical practice to decrease blood pressure. The pharmacological drugs decreasing neurogenic vascular tone and inhibiting basal vascular tone are indicated. The data of drug action, its pharmacodynamics and basic principles of combined use for the rational treatment of hypertension are presented. The lecture may be interesting to physiologists, pharmacologists, cardiologists, therapists, medical students and clinical residents.