Medications to know:
Captopril (Capoten)
• Classification Ace inhibitor
• What is it used for? Therapeutic Use. Treatment for hypertension, heart failure (HF), diabetic
nephropathy, and left ventricular dysfunction following myocardial infarction (ramipril).
• What side effect is captopril famous for and involves swelling? Angioedema, swelling of mouth and
throat.Dry cough. Hyperkalemia
• What labs do I need to look at for someone taking captopril? (Hint: An electrolyte. Why? Potassium,
• What vital signs are important prior to giving captopril? Blood pressure, following first dose as that is
when the risk for hypotension is the greatest.
• What does the nurse do if someone develops a cough while on this medication? Notify the provider so
they can determine whether to continue the drug with antitussive
.
Which adverse reaction can happen after the first dose, especially when clients are taking diuretics)?
Hypotension.
Should lie supine when? If lightheadedness occurs after the first dose.
• Explain what may happen when mixed with lithium, diuretics, or nitrates…. Diuretics and nitrates such
as nitroglycerin, increase the risk for hypotension. Lithium toxicity may occur if also taking lithium for a
mood disorder.
Losartan (Cozaar)
• What makes Cozaar different from Captopril?
• What makes “sartans” similar to “prils”?
• Classification? Angiotensin II receptor blocker
Aliskiren (Tekturna)
• What is this for? Treats hypertension.
• How does it work? It works by exerting its antihypertensive effect by binding with renin. This inhibits
activation of angiotensin I, effectively causing vasodilation, as well as urinary excretion of sodium and
water.
• What vital signs are important before administering?
• Classification? Direct Renin Inhibitor (there is only one on the market)
Nifedipine (Adalate and Procardia)
• What is this for? Thereapeutic use.
• How does it work and what classification is this medication in?
• Which type of juice should not be taken with calcium channel blockers?
• At what systolic blood pressure would you hold this medication prior to giving it?
• Which adverse reactions can be caused by the vasodilation of vessels? Why?
• What is reflex tachycardia and why can it happen with this medication?