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Overview of Hypertension Medications
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1. DIURETICSMedication most commonly prescribed first.  Reduces blood volume by increasing the kidney’s elimination of sodium and water from the body.

 

There are 3 main types: Thiazide, Loop, and Potassium-Sparing Diuretics;    

Each type affects the kidneys in different ways and may have varying side-effects and precautions.

 

The most commonly prescribed diuretics include:

  1. Hydrochlorothiazide (thiazide) 

  2. Furosemide (loop diuretic) 

  3. Spironolactone and triamterene (potassium sparing diuretics) 

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2. BETA BLOCKERS - Decrease the rate and force of contraction of the heart by blocking the effects of epinephrine (adrenaline) on the heart muscle.

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The most commonly prescribed beta blockers include:

  1. Atenolol 

  2. Metoprolol 

  3. Bisoprolol 

  4. Carteolol

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3. CALCIUM CHANNEL BLOCKERSAct on the blood vessel muscles to relax and reduce the rate of contraction, allowing an increased supply of blood and oxygen to the heart, which reduces the heart's workload. 

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The most commonly prescribed calcium channel blockers include:

  1. Amlodipine 

  2. Diltiazem 

  3. Isradipine 

  4. Verapamil

  5. Nifedipine

4. ANGIOTENSIN-CONVERTING ENZYME INHIBITORS - Relax and dilate blood vessels by preventing the formation of the chemical responsible for constricting blood vessels.

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The most commonly prescribed ACE inhibitors are:

  1. Captopril

  2. Trandolapril (Mavik)

  3. Lisinopril (Zestril or Prinivil) 

  4. Benazepril (Lotensin)

5. ANGIOTENSIN RECEPTOR BLOCKERS - Prevent the constriction of blood vessels by blocking the action of the chemical responsible for the narrowing of blood vessels.

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The most commonly prescribed angiotensin receptor blockers include:

  1. Irbesartan (Avapro) 

  2. Losartan (Cozaar)

  3. Candesartan (Atacand)

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Medications to Treat Hypertension

A healthy diet, regular physical activity, and weight control are the best lifestyle treatments to control high blood pressure and reduce the need of medications. However, initial medical treatment of hypertension should include one of the following prescribed medications:
If no change in blood pressure is present after one month of taking the prescribed drug, an increase in dosage or combination of drug forms may be necessary. 
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References:

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James, P. A., Oparil, S., Carter, B. L., Cushman, W. C., Dennison-Himmelfarb, C., Handler, J., & ... Wright, J. J. (2014). 2014 evidence-based guideline for the management of high blood pressure in adults: report from the panel members appointed to the Eighth Joint National Committee (JNC 8). JAMA: Journal Of The American Medical Association, 311(5), 507-520. doi:10.1001/jama.2013.284427

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Mayoclinic staff. (2016). High blood pressure (hypertension): treatments and drugs. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Retrieved from http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/basics/treatment/con-20019580

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