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