Some of the most effective medications for controlling high blood pressure may also be the least expensive. From the most common over-the-counter medication to diuretics and lifestyle changes, you may be able to control your high blood pressure without sending your medical bills sky-high. Statins, beta blockers, cholesterol lowering medications and calcium channel blockers each have their place when discussing treatment for high blood pressure, but effective treatment may also be cheaper than expected.
Diuretics
Thiazide-type diuretics such as chlorthalidone were found to be most effective in preventing cardiovascular disease (CVD) by lowering high blood pressure. A 1994 to 2002 study of 33,357 hypertensive patients more than 55 years of age resulted in findings that the inexpensive chlorthalidone should be the preferred first step in hypertensive therapy before a calcium channel blocker or an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor which can cost many times as much as the diuretic, according to an article published in December, 2002, in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Aspirin
Perhaps the least expensive high-blood pressure medication, aspirin, is used for everything from headaches to the common cold. MayoClinic.com reports that aspirin isn't for everyone and shouldn't be used by those with bleeding disorders or those who are taking another blood thinner. It is vital to consult a physician about the advisability as well as the dosage before undertaking aspirin therapy.
Chlorthalidone vs. Aspirin
The cheapest medications for high blood pressure, aspirin and chlorthalidone, work differently. Aspirin is the most common form of antiplatelet agent in use against hypertension and a 2005 report in the "Journal of Human Hypertension" states it is beneficial in the prevention of vascular disease. But the possibility of bleeding events makes the benefit to risk ratio something you should talk about with your doctor.
Thiazide-type diuretics such as chlorthalidone are also known as water pills because they help prevent the body from absorbing too much salt. Drugs.com states you should avoid sunlight or becoming overheated when taking chlorthalidone and avoid drinking alcohol with either of these medications.
