Direct Vasodilators for Hypertension
Medication | Selected Adverse Effects* | Comments |
|---|---|---|
Positive antinuclear antibody test, drug-induced lupus (rare at recommended doses) | Augments vasodilating effects of other vasodilating medication | |
Sodium and water retention, hypertrichosis; possibly new or worsening pleural and pericardial effusions | Reserved for severe, refractory hypertension | |
* Both medications may cause headache, tachycardia, and fluid retention and may precipitate angina in patients with coronary artery disease. | ||