A muscle cell normally maintains a very low interior calcium concentration. It i

Question

A muscle cell normally maintains a very low interior calcium concentration. It is known that a small increase in the interior [Ca+2] causes the cell to contract. To maintain this low concentration, muscle cells actively pump out Ca+2. The pump used by cardiac (heart) muscle is an antiport : it couples the extrusion of calcium ions to the entry into the cell of sodium. The drug oubain suppresses the activity of the sodium-potassium pump. Why do you suppose this drug is widely used to treat heart failure ?

Explanation / Answer

Beta-blockers:

These drugs work to slow down the heart rate, reduce heart rhythm problems, lower the blood pressure and make the heart stronger. They are shown to help individuals with heart failure live longer, healthier lives.

Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitors:

ACE inhibitors dilate (widen) blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood through the vessels. These medications are shown to help people with heart failure live longer, healthier lives.

Angiotensin Receptor blockers

Works similarly to ACE inhibitors to relax the blood vessels, and frequently used to replace ACE inhibitors that cause coughing.

Aldosterone Blockers:

Works by blocking the effects of a stress hormone called aldosterone.

Vasodilators:

May also be used to relax the blood vessels and decrease the workload on the heart. This medication is sometimes used when a person cannot take the ACE inhibitor.

Digoxin (Lanoxin, Digitek):

May improve symptoms through a variety of mechanisms, including helping the heart beat stronger and/or controlling the heart rhythm.

Diuretics:

Commonly referred to as “water pills” because they help the kidneys rid excess water and salt from the body (through the urine). Diuretics can decrease fluid in the lungs to help you breathe easier and also pull fluid away from your belly, legs, hands, and feet.

Potassium:

Important electrolyte in the body that is often lost with increased urine output. Potassium supplements are frequently needed when taking diuretics.
K+ Potassium; K-Dur®; K-Lor®; K-Tab®; Kaon-Cl-; Kay Ciel®; Klor-Con®; microK.

Inotropes:

Intravenous drugs used in advanced heart failure to stimulate the weakened heart to pump more effectively. These drugs increase the force of the heart's contractions and relax the blood vessels. The goal is to improve the amount of blood that is ejected from the weakened heart and circulated to the rest of the body.

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