Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Disable ads (and more) with a premium pass for a one time $4.99 payment

Question: 1 / 345

What is a common effect of depressant drugs on the cardiovascular system?

Increased heart rate

Decreased heart rate

Depressant drugs, such as alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opioids, generally act by slowing down various functions in the central nervous system. One significant effect of these substances on the cardiovascular system is a decrease in heart rate, often termed bradycardia. This occurs because depressants can reduce the excitability of neurons, leading to a slower conduction of electrical impulses that regulate heart function.

Decreased heart rate can be clinically relevant because it may lead to inadequate blood flow to vital organs, especially in overdose situations. This effect contrasts with stimulants, which typically increase heart rate and blood pressure due to their excitatory nature. Similarly, the other answer choices relate to cardiovascular responses that are not common with depressants; stimulants increase heart rate and blood pressure, while irregular heartbeat can result from various factors, including electrolyte imbalances or other types of drug overdose. Thus, the decrease in heart rate is distinctly associated with the action of depressant drugs on the cardiovascular system.

Get further explanation with Examzify DeepDiveBeta

Irregular heartbeat

Increased blood pressure

Next

Report this question

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy