Pharmacology · USMLE Step 1

USMLE Pharmacology: Cardiovascular Drugs

Antihypertensive, antiarrhythmic, and heart failure drug classes with mechanism and one signature side effect per card.

44 cards · basic cards · AI-written, checked twice. Edit anything.

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What is the mechanism of action of ACE inhibitors?
They inhibit angiotensin-converting enzyme, blocking conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II.
ACE inhibitors cause a dry cough because they raise levels of ____.
bradykinin
What rare but serious ACE inhibitor side effect causes swelling of the face, lips, and airway?
Angioedema
What is the mechanism of action of angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs)?
They block the AT1 receptor, preventing angiotensin II from binding.
What electrolyte disturbance can ARBs cause by reducing aldosterone secretion?
Hyperkalemia
What is the mechanism of action of thiazide diuretics?
They inhibit the Na+/Cl- cotransporter in the distal convoluted tubule.
Thiazide diuretics commonly cause ____ from increased sodium delivery to the collecting duct.
hypokalemia
What is the mechanism of action of loop diuretics such as furosemide?
They inhibit the Na+/K+/2Cl- cotransporter in the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle.
What signature side effect of loop diuretics affects hearing?
Ototoxicity
What is the mechanism of action of spironolactone?
It competitively antagonizes aldosterone at the mineralocorticoid receptor in the collecting duct.
What endocrine side effect can spironolactone cause in men?
Gynecomastia
What is the mechanism of action of dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers such as amlodipine?
They block L-type calcium channels mainly in vascular smooth muscle, causing vasodilation.
What is a signature side effect of dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers?
Peripheral edema
What is the mechanism of action of non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers such as verapamil and diltiazem?
They block L-type calcium channels mainly in the heart, reducing heart rate and contractility.
What is a signature gastrointestinal side effect of verapamil?
Constipation

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