High blood pressure, HBP is the force exerted by blood on the arteries. HBP is a serious condition that can lead to stroke and heart failure.According to U.S Food and Drug Administration, HBP affects nearly 65 million adults in the United States. There are different classes of medications used to treat high blood pressure
Beta Blockers
According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, beta blockers block epinephrine and norepinephrine and this makes the heart beat slower so that blood passes through blood vessels with less force. Examples of beta blockers include Atenolol, Metropolol and Propranolol. The American Heart Association, states that common side effects of beta blockers include dizziness, weakness and slow heart rate. Patients take caution when rising from a lying position because beta blockers cause postural hypotension--low blood pressure that occurs when people stand up too quickly. Patients with asthma and diabetes should avoid beta blockers because they make symptoms of these diseases worse.
ACE Inhibitors
NHLB states that, angiotensin converting enzyme, ACE inhibitors prevent the formation of Angiotensin 2, a hormone that causes blood vessels to constrict. Examples of ACE inhibitors include Captopril, Lisinopril and Enalapril. According to AHA, common side effects of ACE inhibitors include persistent cough, weakness and dizziness. Since ACE inhibitors can cause postural hypotension, patients should take care when rising from a lying position.
Calcium Channel Blockers
According to NHLB, calcium channel blockers help prevent blood vessels from constricting by blocking calcium from entering cells. This causes the blood vessels to relax. Examples of calcium channel blockers include Nifedipine, Diltiazem and Verapimil.AHA states that Common side effects include headache, hypotension, dizziness, facial flushing. To avoid postural hypotension, patients should take care when rising from a lying position.
Diuretics
According to NHLB, Water retention and salt causes high blood pressure. Diuretics remove excess water and sodium. Examples of diuretics are Lasix, Bumex and Diuril. AHA states that the most common side effects of diuretics include increased urination and excessive loss of sodium and potassium. Patients should avoid taking diuretics at night because this can interfere with sleep due to excessive nocturnal urination. They should also eat foods rich in potassium
Vasodilators
NHLB states that, vasodilators cause blood vessels wall to relax and this allows for blood to pass through more easily. Examples of vasodilators include Hydralazine and Minoxidil. According to AHA, common side effects of vasodilators are headache, flushing, pounding heartbeat and dizziness
