Question
Enumerate five groups of anti- hypertensive drugs with examples of each. Discuss the mechanism of action, adverse effects and therapeutic uses of any one of them. (2+2+1+1)
Answer
Five groups of antihypertensive drugs with examples
- Diuretics: Hydrochlorothiazide
- Beta blockers: Atenolol
- ACE inhibitors: Enalapril
- Calcium channel blockers: Amlodipine
- Angiotensin receptor blockers: Losartan
Mechanism, adverse effects and uses of ACE inhibitors (Enalapril)
Mechanism: Inhibits angiotensin-converting enzyme, blocking conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II — reduces vasoconstriction (↓afterload) and aldosterone-mediated Na⁺/water retention (↓preload); also prevents bradykinin breakdown, contributing to efficacy and the characteristic dry cough
Adverse effects: Dry cough, hyperkalaemia, first-dose hypotension, angioedema, teratogenic (contraindicated in pregnancy), acute renal failure in bilateral renal artery stenosis
Uses: Hypertension, congestive cardiac failure (improves survival), post-MI, diabetic nephropathy (renoprotective)

