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.

What does vasodilation do to the body?

Vasodilation is a mechanism to enhance blood flow to areas of the body that are lacking oxygen and/or nutrients. The vasodilation causes a decrease in systemic vascular resistance (SVR) and an increase in blood flow, resulting in a reduction of blood pressure.

How do vasodilators work for hypertension?

Vasodilators are a type of medicine that can be used to lower high blood pressure. They work by allowing the blood vessels to relax and widen, allowing the blood to flow through them more easily.