**Core Concept**
Diazoxide is a vasodilatory medication that acts as a potassium channel opener, leading to smooth muscle relaxation and decreased peripheral resistance. This results in a decrease in blood pressure.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The mechanism of action of Diazoxide involves the opening of ATP-sensitive potassium channels (K ATP channels) in smooth muscle cells, which leads to hyperpolarization of the cell membrane and subsequent relaxation of smooth muscle. This action is particularly pronounced in the arterioles, where it results in vasodilation and a decrease in blood pressure. The primary clinical use of Diazoxide is in the management of hypertensive emergencies.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** While Diazoxide does have a role in managing hypertensive emergencies, it is not typically used for the treatment of angina pectoris. This statement is therefore false.
**Option B:** Diazoxide is a vasodilator, but it is not an alpha-blocker. Alpha-blockers act by blocking alpha-adrenergic receptors in the smooth muscle of blood vessels, leading to vasodilation. Diazoxide's mechanism of action is distinct from that of alpha-blockers, making this statement false.
**Option C:** Diazoxide is known to decrease blood pressure by causing vasodilation, which makes this statement true.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Diazoxide also has a role in the treatment of insulinoma, where it is used to manage hypoglycemia by causing vasodilation and increasing glucose release from the liver.
**Correct Answer: A. Diazoxide is not typically used for the treatment of angina pectoris.**
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
Access thousands of free MCQs, ebooks and daily exams.
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy.