High blood pressure, or hypertension, increases the risk for heart attack and heart failure, aneurysm, stroke and kidney damage. Hypertension occurs when the pressure pumping through the arteries is too high, greater than 140/90 mm Hg. According to Cedars-Sinai, more than 50 million Americans have hypertension; one-third are unaware they have it. The risk of developing hypertension is greater for those who smoke, have a family history of the condition, are overweight or African-American.
Beta Blockers
Beta blockers such as atenolol, metoprolol and carvedilol, work by blocking the effects of epinephrine, or adrenaline, on the beta receptors in the body, slowing the nerve impulses traveling through the heart, according to the Texas Heart Institute. The heart beats more slowly and with less force, thereby reducing blood pressure. Beta blockers also act to control irregular heartbeats, or arrhythmias. Side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth and swelling of the extremities.
ACE Inhibitors
Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, or ACE inhibitors, are used to treat heart failure along with high blood pressure. According to MayoClinic.com, they work by blocking the production of the enzyme angiotensin II which is responsible for narrowing the arteries. Pressure within the arteries is reduced and more blood flows through. ACE inhibitors are also used after a heart attack to prevent further heart damage. Examples of ACE inhibitors are ramipril, captopril and lisinopril. Side effects include a dry, hacking cough and loss of taste.
Calcium Channel Blockers
Calcium channels blockers like amlodipine besylate and verapamil work by slowing the rate at which calcium enters the heart muscle and artery walls, according to the American Heart Association. This prevents the heart from contracting too hard, which acts to reduce blood pressure. Calcium channel blockers also open up narrowed arteries by relaxing the smooth muscle, allowing better blood flow. Side effects include heartburn, swollen ankles and palpitations.
Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers
Angiotensin II receptor blockers, or ARBs, work by blocking the action of the enzyme angiotensin II. According to the American Heart Association, ARBs work as well as ACE inhibitors in relaxing the arteries to allow for better blood flow, but without producing the hacking cough side effect. They may also improve kidney function in diabetics. ARBs include candesartan and irbesarten. Common side effects are dizziness and headache.
Diuretics
Diuretics, called water pills, are used to treat hypertension and congestive heart failure, which occurs when the heart is weak and cannot pump efficiently. This causes the body to retain sodium and water, leading to edema, or swelling. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, diuretics eliminate the excess water though increased urination, so should be taken in the morning. Common diuretics are furosemide, spironolactone and bumetanide. Side effects include potassium depletion and muscle cramps.
