Talk:Vasodilator

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How about a definition? Is this a chemical? A machine? A technique or a procedure? What is it?

[edit] Vasodilators

Vasodilators are synthetic or endogenous chemicals that act ultimately on the smooth muscle component of the vasculature and cause it to relax, which in medical terms translates to :

1. Increased caliber of arteries/veins

2. Lower blood pressure

3. Increased perfusion of target tissues

[edit] cannabis

Cannabis is listed as a vasoconstrictor and a vasodialator, this doesn't seem to make sense

Cannabis is generally speaking a vasodialator. However, some people experience panic attacks after ingesting cannabis, primarily of the eaten form, because the effect is too strong for them to handle. The strong effects of the cannabis lead to fear, which leads to vasoconstriction. This isn't really an effect of the cannabis though, more just a symptom of an individual's fear. It really shouldn't be listed as a vasoconstrictor.--Moeburn 05:50, 7 January 2007 (UTC)

[edit] Antihypertensive agents vs. peripheral vasodilators

I am just wondering what the difference is between antihypertensive agents and peripheral vasodilators. They both seem to be the same thing to me. Bassplaya (talk) 00:11, 23 April 2008 (UTC)

There are many different classes of anti-hypertensive drugs such as calcium channel blockers and diuretics. They do not affect vascular tone. Wisdom89 _{(T / ^C)} 01:06, 23 April 2008 (UTC)