OSCE & LEARNING POINTS
OSCE • Which is the better afterload reducing drug? One of the classes of drugs commonly used to reduce afterload is vasodilators. Afterload refers to the resistance the heart has to overcome to eject blood into the systemic circulation. Vasodilators help dilate blood vessels, reducing this resistance and making it easier for the heart to pump blood. Several types of vasodilators are used for this purpose: 1. **Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors:** - **Examples:** Enalapril, Lisinopril, Ramipril. - **Mechanism:** Inhibit the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor. This leads to vasodilation and reduced afterload. 2. **Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs):** - **Examples:** Losartan, Valsartan, Irbesartan. - **Mechanism:** Block the action of angiotensin II on its receptors, resulting in vasodilation and decreased afterload. 3. **Calcium Channel Blockers:** - **Examples:** Amlodipine, Nifedipine, Diltiazem. - **Mechanism