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Which of the following drugs is an antihypertensive medication with a short duration of action that could be used to normalize Mr. Wright's blood pressure, if needed?

A) Lisinopril
B) Amlodipine
C) Nitroprusside
D) Digoxin

User Eric Lubow
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

Nitroprusside (C) is the correct antihypertensive medication with a short duration of action suitable for rapid blood pressure reduction in emergency situations.

Step-by-step explanation:

The antihypertensive medication with a short duration of action that could be used to normalize Mr. Wright's blood pressure is Nitroprusside (option C). Nitroprusside is a potent vasodilator used in emergency situations for its immediate effect to lower blood pressure. It acts by releasing nitric oxide, which relaxes smooth muscle cells and dilates blood vessels, rapidly decreasing blood pressure.

Lisinopril (option A) is an ACE inhibitor that blocks the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, which would lower blood pressure over a longer duration. Amlodipine (option B) is a calcium channel blocker with relatively longer action compared to Nitroprusside. Digoxin (option D) is primarily used for heart failure and atrial fibrillation, not as a fast-acting antihypertensive.

User Ahron
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