Side-effect (s) of sodium nitroprusside:
**Core Concept**
Sodium nitroprusside is a potent vasodilator used in the management of severe hypertension and heart failure. It acts by releasing nitric oxide (NO), which relaxes smooth muscle cells in blood vessels, leading to a decrease in peripheral resistance and a subsequent decrease in blood pressure.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Sodium nitroprusside's mechanism of action involves the release of NO, which activates guanylate cyclase in vascular smooth muscle cells, leading to an increase in cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) levels. This results in the relaxation of smooth muscle cells, causing vasodilation. However, sodium nitroprusside also has several side effects, including methemoglobinemia, cyanide toxicity, and thiocyanate toxicity.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Thiopental - Thiopental is a barbiturate used for inducing general anesthesia, and it is not a side effect of sodium nitroprusside.
**Option B:** Haloperidol - Haloperidol is an antipsychotic medication used to treat schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders, and it is not related to sodium nitroprusside.
**Option C:** Furosemide - Furosemide is a loop diuretic used to treat edema and hypertension, and while it is used in conjunction with sodium nitroprusside in some cases, it is not a side effect of the medication.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It is essential to be aware of the potential for cyanide toxicity when using sodium nitroprusside, as it can occur due to the release of cyanide ions during metabolism. To mitigate this risk, sodium thiosulfate is often administered concurrently with sodium nitroprusside.
**Correct Answer: C. Furosemide.**