Comprehensive Pharmacology Guide: Cardiovascular, Immunological, and Respiratory Medications for Nursing Students|Latest Updated 2026

Comprehensive Pharmacology Guide: Cardiovascular, Immunological, and Respiratory Medications for Nursing Students ACE inhibitors Block angiotensin-converting enzyme to lower blood pressure; may cause cough, hyperkalemia. ARBs Block angiotensin II receptors; similar to ACE inhibitors but no cough. Beta-blockers Reduce heart rate and contractility; used for hypertension, angina, arrhythmias. Diuretics Promote fluid loss to lower BP and reduce edema; monitor potassium levels. Statins Lower LDL cholesterol by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase; monitor liver enzymes. Anticoagulants Prevent clot formation; examples include heparin and warfarin. Immunosuppressants Drugs that reduce immune activity to prevent transplant rejection or treat autoimmune disease. Biologic agents Monoclonal antibodies targeting specific immune molecules (e.g., TNF inhibitors). Vaccines Stimulate active immunity; may be live, inactivated, or recombinant. Immunostimulants Boost immune response (e.g., interferons). Bronchodilators Relax airway smooth muscle; include beta₂-agonists and anticholinergics. Inhaled corticosteroids Reduce airway inflammation; prevent asthma attacks. Leukotriene modifiers Block leukotriene-mediated inflammation; used for asthma and allergies. Mast cell stabilizers Prevent histamine release; used for allergy prevention. Mucolytics Thin mucus to ease expectoration (e.g., acetylcysteine). Common side effects of beta-blockers Bradycardia and fatigue. Common side effects of immunosuppressants Increased infection risk and organ toxicity. Common side effects of beta₂-agonists Tremors, nervousness, and tachycardia. First step in asthma management Use a short-acting beta₂-agonist for acute symptoms. Importance of inhaler technique Improper use reduces medication delivery to the lungs. What should patients do after using inhaled steroids? Rinse their mouth to prevent oral thrush. Which vaccines should not be given to immunocompromised patients? Live attenuated vaccines. What should patients taking immunosuppressants avoid? Crowds and people with infections. Example of a monoclonal antibody drug Adalimumab or infliximab.