High blood pressure is a serious condition, and it can lead to a variety of health complications if left untreated. Fortunately, there are several medications available that can help lower your blood pressure and reduce the risk of associated health issues.
Here’s a look at five effective medicines for treating high blood pressure.
1. ACE Inhibitors
ACE inhibitors work by blocking a specific enzyme that causes the narrowing of blood vessels and causes a relaxing and widening of the veins and arteries, which lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow. There are many types of ACE inhibitors. The most commonly prescribed brands include lisinopril (Prinivil), ramipril (Altace), benazepril (Lotensin), captopril (Capoten), and enalapril maleate/hydrochlorothiazide (Vaseretic).
2. Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers
Angiotensin II receptor blockers have a similar effect to ACE inhibitors – relaxing the blood vessels and allowing for more oxygenated blood to flow throughout the body. Examples of these medications include Azilsartan (Edarbi), Candesartan (Atacand), Eprosartan, and Irbesartan (Avapro).
3. Beta-Blockers
Beta-adrenergic blocking agents, or beta-blockers, slow down heart rate while also reducing how hard the heart needs to work to pump against the resistance caused by narrowed arteries. The reduction in overall strain on the heart has the effect of improving function over time. Some examples of beta-blockers include Acebutolol, Atenolol (Tenormin), Bisoprolol (Zebeta), and Metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol XL).
4. Calcium Channel Blockers
These drugs block calcium channels found within cell walls, so fewer ions will enter the cells in the heart and arteries, causing the blood vessels to relax and widen. Calcium channel blockers not only help with lowering blood pressure, but they also improve symptoms such as chest pain. Examples of calcium channel blockers include Amlodipine (Norvasc), Diltiazem (Cardizem, Tiazac, others), Felodipine, and Isradipine.
5. Diuretics
These are also referred to as “water pills” because they help rid the body of salt and fluid via urine production. When sodium is released into the urine and fluid is removed from the veins and arteries, blood pressure is also reduced. Different types of diuretics can be used to treat high blood pressure, including Thiazide, Loop, and Potassium-sparing diuretics.
Which One is Right For You?
Your doctor may prescribe one or a combination of these medications, depending on what gives you the most positive results with the least amount of negative side effects. Patients’ reactions to each drug are monitored by their doctor, so let your doctor know of any side effects that you experience. Overall, medicines that help treat high blood pressure are only a small part of a comprehensive treatment plan that must also include dietary and lifestyle changes.
High Blood Pressure Treatment in Rochester, NY
Cornerstone Urgent Care Center is a walk-in clinic offering chronic disease management services in Rochester for patients who want to get a better handle on their blood pressure and avoid complications. Our medical professionals are not only experienced in high blood pressure management but also have great bedside manner.
We are committed to providing high-quality patient care. To schedule an appointment with us, call our office today at (585) 207-0088, or send us a request using our secure online form.
