Which agents are known to decrease systemic vascular resistance?

Sevoflurane and Desflurane are both volatile anesthetics that are well-documented for their effects on the cardiovascular system, specifically in decreasing systemic vascular resistance (SVR). This property is particularly beneficial during surgical procedures where control of blood pressure is crucial.

Sevoflurane provides smooth induction and maintenance of anesthesia while also causing vasodilation, which can lead to a decrease in systemic vascular resistance. Similarly, Desflurane, with its minimal cardiovascular effects and rapid onset and offset characteristics, also induces vasodilation, thereby lowering SVR.

The mechanisms behind this effect include the direct action of these agents on vascular smooth muscle, resulting in relaxation and reduced resistance in the systemic circulation. This vasodilatory effect is significant because it can help maintain or enhance cardiac output during anesthesia by decreasing the workload on the heart while allowing for control over blood pressure.

Therefore, the choice of Sevoflurane and Desflurane as agents known to decrease systemic vascular resistance reflects their common use in clinical settings and is supported by the pharmacological knowledge surrounding these anesthetics.