What is Clevidipine-hydrochlorothiazide?
Clevidipine-Hydrochlorothiazide is a combination medication used in the hospital setting for the management of severe hypertension. It contains clevidipine, an ultra-short-acting calcium channel blocker that lowers blood pressure by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle cells, and hydrochlorothiazide, a thiazide diuretic that increases urine production to help lower blood pressure. The combination is administered intravenously and has a rapid onset and short duration of action, making it suitable for acute situations such as cardiac surgery or emergency situations.
What is Clevidipine-hydrochlorothiazide used for?
Clevidipine-hydrochlorothiazide, also known as Clevon, is a unique medication that combines two distinct pharmacological classes: an injectable calcium channel blocker (clevidipine) and a thiazide diuretic (hydrochlorothiazide). This dual-action medication was developed to provide rapid blood pressure control in hypertensive patients. The clevidipine component works by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle cells, leading to vasodilation and consequent reduction in blood pressure. In contrast, hydrochlorothiazide belongs to a class of diuretics that promote sodium and water loss through the kidneys, contributing further to lowered blood pressure.
The primary indication for clevidipine-hydrochlorothiazide is the management of acute hypertension in critically ill patients who require quick and effective control of their blood pressure. This medication has gained attention due to its potential benefits in settings where rapid blood pressure management is crucial, such as emergency departments or intensive care units. Its unique combination of mechanisms provides a potentially more targeted approach compared to traditional antihypertensive agents.
Clevidipine-hydrochlorothiazide side effects
- Hypotension
- Hypertension (if not as intended)
- Bradycardia
- Tachycardia
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Respiratory depression
- Coughing up blood or other material (hemoptysis)
- Wheezing or coughing
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet (edema)
- Increased urination
- Muscle pain or cramps (rhabdomyolysis)
- High levels of potassium in the blood (hyperkalemia)
- Decreased platelet count (thrombocytopenia)
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