Blood pressure medications aren't for everyone; sometimes this condition simply requires some lifestyle changes such as changes in your diet, getting more exercise, or quitting smoking, according to the Mayo Clinic. For those who need medication, dozens are available. The one your doctor chooses depends on how high your blood pressure is, and the cause of your condition.
Captopril
Captopril belongs to a class of drugs known as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It works by blocking the hormone angiotensin, which causes the blood vessels to narrow. As the production of angiotensin decreases, the blood vessels begin relaxing and opening up; this allows blood to flow more freely through them, thus reducing your blood pressure.
The most common side effects include skin rash, chronic cough and loss of taste.
Losartan
Losartan is a part of the drug family known as angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). This drug works similarly to captopril, in that it blocks the effects of the hormone angiotensin. As the American Heart Association (AHA) explains, angiotensin needs a receptor with which to connect in order to constrict the blood vessels--this is where ARBs such as losartan come in. This drug blocks the receptor to which angiotensin binds, hindering its ability to constrict the blood vessels. Your blood pressure then drops, as your blood is able to flow freely through the vessels. Its most common side effect is occasional dizziness.
Amlodipine
Calcium channel blockers, such as amlodipine, work by preventing calcium from entering the smooth muscle cells of both the heart and blood vessels. Upon entering these cells, calcium causes harder and stronger contractions of the heart. Once the forcefulness of the hearts' contractions eases, blood vessels open and your heart rate decreases, along with your blood pressure.
Possible side effects include heart palpitations, constipation, dizziness, swollen ankles and dizziness.
Metoprolol
Belonging to the family of drugs known as beta blockers, metoprolol works by reducing the nerve signals to the heart and blood vessels, according to the Mayo Clinic. This reduces your heart rate, the amount of work your heart has to do and the amount of blood the heart pumps out. All of these actions reduce your blood pressure.
The most common side effects of metoprolol include insomnia, feeling tired, depression, a slower heartbeat and impotence in men.
