What is the correct indication of effectiveness for hydralazine therapy?

The effectiveness of hydralazine therapy is indicated by a blood pressure reading that is significantly reduced, demonstrating that the medication is effectively lowering hypertension. A blood pressure reading of 130/70 mm Hg reflects a state of controlled blood pressure, where the systolic is within a safer range and the diastolic is also adequately low. This range is commonly targeted in treatment protocols for hypertension, indicating that the medication is achieving its desired therapeutic effect.

Hydralazine primarily acts as a vasodilator, which helps to reduce peripheral vascular resistance and lower blood pressure. The specific reading of 130/70 mm Hg shows not only a reduced systolic value, which is crucial in hypertension management, but also indicates that the diastolic value is not too low, avoiding hypotension.

Other readings mentioned, such as a systolic blood pressure above 130 mm Hg or below 120 mm Hg, do not clearly represent effective management of hypertension. Additionally, heart rate considerations, though important, do not reflect the primary goal of hydralazine, which is to lower blood pressure rather than specifically target heart rate parameters.