What effect do peripheral alpha 1 antagonists typically have on blood vessels?

Peripheral alpha-1 antagonists are medications that block alpha-1 adrenergic receptors located on the smooth muscle of blood vessels. By inhibiting these receptors, peripheral alpha-1 antagonists cause a reduction in vasoconstriction, leading to vasodilation. This dilation of blood vessels decreases vascular resistance and can result in lower blood pressure, which is particularly beneficial for conditions such as hypertension or benign prostatic hyperplasia.

The vasodilatory effect is significant as it promotes increased blood flow to various tissues by relaxing the blood vessel walls, allowing them to widen. Thus, the correct answer is that peripheral alpha-1 antagonists typically cause vasodilation.