How do direct-acting vasodilators work? They work by allowing the blood vessels to relax and widen, making it easier for blood to flow through. 'Vaso' refers to the blood vessels and 'dilators' means that it makes them wider.

What is the mechanism of action of direct vasodilators?

Vasodilators are medications that open (dilate) blood vessels. They affect the muscles in the walls of the arteries and veins, preventing the muscles from tightening and the walls from narrowing. As a result, blood flows more easily through the vessels. The heart doesn't have to pump as hard, reducing blood pressure.

Which drug is directly acting vasodilators?

The most common are direct-acting nitrosovasodilators such as sodium nitroprusside and nitroglycerin. These drugs directly relax vascular smooth muscle to cause vasodilation. Hydralazine is another direct-acting smooth muscle vasodilator that is occasionally given to children to reduce blood pressure.