Fenoldopam is primarily used to do what in severe hypertension?

• A. Lower blood pressure
• B. Increase heart rate
• C. Diurese sodium
• D. Relieve chest pain

Answer: (A)

Fenoldopam works by selectively activating dopamine D1 receptors, which relaxes vascular smooth muscle and causes vasodilation, especially in the renal and peripheral arteries. This lowers systemic vascular resistance, producing a rapid drop in blood pressure. In a hypertensive emergency, the primary goal is to reduce blood pressure quickly to prevent organ damage while preserving kidney perfusion, and fenoldopam accomplishes that balance. It also increases renal blood flow and promotes natriuresis and diuresis, which can aid kidney protection, but the main clinical aim is to lower blood pressure. It isn’t used to relieve chest pain, and while tachycardia can occur as a side effect, that isn’t the primary purpose of its use.