Why is nitroprusside wrapped in aluminum foil?
Also know, why is nitroprusside protected from light?
The drug is light sensitive and should be shielded from light to prevent degradation. Sodium nitroprusside dilates both arteriolar resistance and venous capacitance vessels, thereby decreasing peripheral resistance without causing an increase in venous return.
Simply so, what is the mechanism of action of nitroprusside?
Mechanism of action Sodium nitroprusside breaks down in circulation to release nitric oxide (NO). It does this by binding to oxyhaemoglobin to release cyanide, methaemoglobin and nitric oxide. NO activates guanylate cyclase in vascular smooth muscle and increases intracellular production of cGMP.
Nitroprusside (Nitropress) Because nitroprusside is light-sensitive, both bottle and tubing should be wrapped in aluminum foil. Before initiating nitroprusside therapy, administer a beta blocker to counteract the physiologic response of reflex tachycardia that occurs when nitroprusside is used alone.