Word parts
What it means
A group of drugs that let blood vessels open wider, which lowers blood pressure and makes it easier for the heart to pump. Examples are hydralazine and nitroprusside for high blood pressure, and nitroglycerin for angina. Common side effects come from the widened vessels: headache, flushing, dizziness, low blood pressure and a fast heart rate.
For the nurse
Check blood pressure before and after giving a vasodilator, and teach the client to get up slowly to avoid dizziness when standing. ISMP lists IV nitroprusside as a high-alert medication.
At a glance
| Spanish | vasodilatador |
|---|---|
| Also written | vasodilators |
Related terms
hypertension
Blood pressure that stays higher than normal, at or above 130/80 mm Hg by current US guidelines.
hypotension
Blood pressure lower than normal, generally below 90/60 mm Hg in an adult.
vasoconstriction
The narrowing of blood vessels when the muscle in their walls tightens.