The major side effect of the loop diuretics is hypokalemia.

ACE inhibitors block the synthesis of angiotensin II.

The ARBs interfere with the binding of angiotensin II with its receptor.

Spironolactone and eplerenone are antagonists of aldosterone at the mineralocorticoid receptor and can be used to treat hypertension.

Calcium channel blockers inhibit the entry of calcium into cells. They cause a decrease in afterload.

The most common side effects of the calcium channel blockers (headaches, dizziness, hypotension, etc.) are related to vasodilation.

The nitrates dilate blood vessels and reduce cardiac preload.

NITROGLYCERIN is the most commonly used antianginal agent. It is the drug of choice for relieving acute coronary spasm.

NITROPRUSSIDE is a vasodilator given by continuous IV infusion. It is rapidly metabolized to cyanide.

Headaches and postural hypotension are common side effects of the use of nitrates.

Hydralazine and minoxidil directly relax arterioles.

Fenoldopam is a dopamine agonist used for the acute treatment of severe hypertension.

The α1 antagonists, such as PRAZOSIN, terazosin, and doxazosin, dilate arteries and veins.

β-Blockers prevent sympathetic stimulation of the heart.

β-Blockers may be particularly useful in patients with angina or those with migraines.

CLONIDINE is an α2 agonist that reduces central sympathetic outflow.

Pharmacologically, the treatment of coronary artery disease focuses on the reduction of myocardial oxygen demand.

Treatment of heart failure is targeted toward decreasing cardiac workload, controlling excess fluid, and enhancing myocardial contractility.

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors lessen the symptoms of heart failure by reducing cardiac workload.

Diuretics are almost always used to control excess fluid accumulation in heart failure.