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What is Apresoline®?

K. Gierok
K. Gierok

Apresoline® is a medication commonly used in high blood pressure and congestive heart failure treatment. Its effectiveness is based on the ability to dilate arteries, which results in an increase in blood flow and decrease in blood pressure rates. While Apresoline® may be a good choice for some, it is restricted for those diagnosed with coronary heart disease, rheumatic heart disease, mitral valve defect, or pregnancy. Though side effects of Apresoline® use are numerous, one of the most common is peripheral neuropathy. In most cases, supplementation with vitamin B6 can treat the symptoms of this condition.

A prescription medication, Apresoline® is most commonly used in the treatment of high to very high blood pressure. In some cases, however, it has also been found to be effective for patients suffering from congestive heart failure. Typically, patients who have recently been prescribed Apresoline® must undergo strict supervision in order to determine the ideal dosage of the medication.

Apresoline® may be prescribed to help lower blood pressure.
Apresoline® may be prescribed to help lower blood pressure.

Apresoline® works through its ability to dilate the arteries of the body. This not only aids in decreasing blood pressure levels, but also raises the volume of blood flow. In addition, Apresoline® use has been linked to a decrease in the amount of renin produced in the kidneys. A lower renin production translates to an increase in both heart rate and heart contractility. This is especially important for those who suffer from congestive heart failure, as low heart rates and decreased contractility are common contributing factors to the condition.

Patients with heart problems, such as a prolapsed mitral valve, should avoid the use of Apresoline.
Patients with heart problems, such as a prolapsed mitral valve, should avoid the use of Apresoline.

Typically, Apresoline® use is restricted for those who have been diagnosed with coronary heart disease. Unlike those suffering from congestive heart failure, who typically require the use of medications to stimulate heart rate, patients with coronary heart disease are usually encouraged to avoid medications and other products that may significantly raise their heart rate. In addition, those who have been diagnosed with rheumatic heart disease or a defect of the mitral valve should also avoid Apresoline® use, as failure to do so can result in an increased risk of developing fluid on the lungs. Apresoline® use is also restricted for pregnant women, as the use of it has been liked to an increased risk of birth defects.

While there are a number of side effects associated with Apresoline® use, one of the most common is the development of peripheral neuropathy. In this condition, affected patients develop a tingling sensation in the feet or hands. Typically, patients who experience this side effect can achieve relief through the use of vitamin B6.

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    • Apresoline® may be prescribed to help lower blood pressure.
      By: Rob
      Apresoline® may be prescribed to help lower blood pressure.
    • Patients with heart problems, such as a prolapsed mitral valve, should avoid the use of Apresoline.
      By: Matthew Cole
      Patients with heart problems, such as a prolapsed mitral valve, should avoid the use of Apresoline.