Topic overview

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Vasodilators can reduce preload, afterload, or both, improving stroke volume and reducing myocardial oxygen demand. The lesson distinguishes the complementary effects of isosorbide dinitrate and hydralazine, and reviews intravenous agents used in acute decompensation, nesiritide, and milrinone, including their limitations and risks. Diuretics provide symptomatic relief from fluid overload. Loop diuretics are central to treating congestion, while a thiazide-type drug may be added when response is inadequate. Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists are notable for survival benefit; other diuretic classes have different roles and adverse effects. This preview introduces those principles; the full lesson develops the drug comparisons, monitoring considerations, and combined-therapy concepts in greater detail.