According to MedlinePlus, high blood pressure occurs with a systolic reading of 140 over a diastolic reading of 90 or higher. High blood pressure does not have any symptoms, but can lead to more serious health issues, including stroke, heart attack or heart failure. High blood pressure can be controlled through diet, exercise and medications. Numerous hypertensive medications are available that to help increase blood pressure control.
Diuretics
According to the American Heart Association, diuretics, or water pills, lower blood pressure by increasing urine production, allowing the body to rid itself of excess fluids and sodium. Diuretics are used most often with other medications. Side effects include decreasing available potassium in the body, resulting in weakness, cramps or fatigue. Generic diuretics include furosemide, chlorothiazide and amiloride. Diuretics may increase blood sugar levels in those with diabetes.
Beta-Blockers
Beta-blockers work by reducing impulses to the heart and blood vessels. As a result, the heart beats slower and with less intensity. This helps with controlling high blood pressure and provides less stress on the heart. Possible side effects include insomnia, asthma like symptoms, impotence or a slower heartbeat. Generic names for common beta-blockers include acebutolol, atenolol or bisoprolol.
ACE Inhibitors
According to the NHLBI (National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute), angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors stops the formation of angiotensin II, which can cause narrowing of the blood vessels. This medication helps to relax the blood vessels thereby lowering blood pressure. ACE inhibitors include benazepril, captopril, enalapril or fosinopril. According to the Mayo Clinic, these medications are often prescribed as they often do not cause side effects. Very rare effects may include an increase in potassium in the blood, a rash or reduced appetite.
Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers
Angiotensin II receptor blockers, or ARBs, block the effects of angiotensin on the blood vessels, thereby reducing the chance of constriction or narrowing. As a result, blood vessels remain open and blood pressure is reduced. ARBs are contraindicated in pregnancy as they may insure or cause death to the fetus. Some ARBs include candesartan, eprosartan and irbesartan. Side effects are rare, but may include headache, dizziness, diarrhea, or back or leg pain.
Calcium Channel Blockers
Calcium channel blockers, or CCBs, work by preventing calcium from entering heart and blood vessel cells, which leads to a lower blood pressure. CCBs may also slow heart rate, according to the Mayo Clinic, which may lead to a greater decrease in blood pressure and help with chest pain. Generic forms of CCBs include amlodipine, diltiazem and felodipine. CCBs may have an interaction with grapefruit, and cause issues with the elimination of calcium from the body. According to the Mayo Clinic, CCBs are not as effective as other hypertensive medications in lowering blood pressure, and therefore are not often the first choice of medication prescribed. CCBs may be more effective than other medications for African Americans, according to the Mayo Clinic.
