2 Top 3 Drugs Used For Treating Hypertension
Introduction
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common condition that can lead to long-term health complications if not treated. If you have been diagnosed with hypertension and are looking for information on treatment options, there are several classes of medications that are most commonly prescribed to treat this issue. While there are several reasons why one choice might be better for a particular person than another, in general these three classes of drugs have been proven effective for most people: diuretics (also known as water pills), beta blockers (also known as beta-adrenergic receptor antagonists), and ACE inhibitors (also known as angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors).
If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, there are a few classes of medications that are most commonly prescribed to treat the issue. There are several reasons why one choice might be better for a particular person than another, but in general these three classes of drugs have been proven effective for most people.
If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, there are a few classes of medications that are most commonly prescribed to treat the issue. There are several reasons why one choice might be better for a particular person than another, but in general these three classes of drugs have been proven effective for most people.
The first class are called diuretics. These work by making your kidneys produce more urine and thus lower your blood pressure. The second type is called beta blockers, which work by slowing down your heart rate and decreasing its workload. Finally, ACE inhibitors reduce production of a substance called angiotensin II (which causes vasoconstriction) in your body’s cells by inhibiting an enzyme known as angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE).
In summary: diuretics cause more frequent urination; beta blockers slow down the heart rate; and ACE inhibitors decrease production of vasoconstrictors in your body’s cells
Diuretics
Diuretics are the most commonly prescribed class of drugs for hypertension. Doctors prescribe diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide and chlorthalidone to treat high blood pressure. Diuretics work by increasing the amount of salt and water that your body excretes through urination. This lowers your blood volume and reduces the workload on your heart, reducing its need to pump harder to keep enough blood flowing through your arteries and veins.
Diuretic medications can cause potassium loss, which can be dangerous if not treated quickly with potassium supplements or foods rich in potassium (like bananas). If you take a diuretic medication, make sure to talk with your doctor about eating foods high in potassium before taking any other medications that might lower your potassium levels further still.
Thiazide and thiazide-like diuretics
Thiazide and thiazide-like diuretics are used to treat high blood pressure, as well as fluid retention. These drugs work by preventing your kidneys from retaining salt and water, leading to a drop in your blood volume that reduces the amount of work required for your heart to pump blood around your body.
Thiazide-type diuretics include:
- hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide)
- indapamide (Lozol)
Beta blockers
Beta blockers are a class of drugs used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). They work by reducing the heart rate, which in turn lowers blood pressure. They’re also used to treat a number of other conditions, including:
- Angina pectoris (chest pain caused by inadequate blood flow to the heart)
- Anxiety disorders and panic attacks
- Atrial fibrillation (a type of irregular heartbeat)
- Asthma
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
ACE inhibitors are a class of medication that is used to treat high blood pressure. These medications work by relaxing the blood vessels and reducing the amount of work your heart has to do. ACE inhibitors have been shown to be effective in reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke in people with hypertension, who are also at risk for these conditions. In addition, ACE inhibitors may also be used to treat other conditions such as congestive heart failure and diabetic kidney disease.
Diuretics, beta blockers, and ACE inhibitors are the most common and effective classes of medications used for treating hypertension.
There are three classes of medications that are commonly used to treat hypertension: diuretics, beta blockers and ACE inhibitors. However, if you have side effects from one type of drug, your doctor may recommend switching to another. In general, the most common drug used for treating hypertension is a diuretic. Beta blockers are often prescribed as a second choice for many people because they provide effective treatment without causing excessive fatigue. ACE inhibitors are a third choice for many people who cannot tolerate either diuretics or beta blockers due to side effects like low blood pressure or dizziness associated with these drugs.
Conclusion
There is no one perfect drug for everyone, but these three classes have proven to be effective in most cases. If you’re considering taking medication for high blood pressure, talk with your doctor about what options are available and which one would work best for your situation.