Pharmacology and the Nursing Process by Linda Lane Lilley: Practice Exam

What type of drugs are centrally acting alpha2 receptor agonists?

1. Adrenergic drugs

2. Vasodilators

3. Diuretics

4. ACE inhibitors

The correct answer is: Adrenergic drugs

Centrally acting alpha2 receptor agonists are a type of drug that directly affects the central nervous system in order to lower blood pressure. These drugs stimulate alpha2 receptors in the brain, which causes a decrease in the release of norepinephrine, a hormone that increases blood pressure. Adrenergic drugs, or drugs that target the adrenergic receptors in the body, specifically the alpha and beta receptors, can have a variety of effects on the body, including reducing blood pressure. There are many types of adrenergic drugs, including beta blockers, alpha blockers, and alpha2 receptor agonists. Vasodilators are a class of drugs that relax the muscles in blood vessels, causing them to widen and increase blood flow. While this can also help lower blood pressure, it is not the same mechanism of action as centrally acting alpha2 receptor agonists. Diure