Blood pressure is the pressure exerted by the blood against the walls of the blood vessels. It is created by the heart pumping blood into the arteries and through the circulatory system. High blood pressure, or hypertension, and low blood pressure, or hypotension, can lead to serious medical consequences if left untreated. There are, however, various types of medications that can help to regulate blood pressure to close to the normal reading of 120/80 mmHg for healthy adults.
Diuretics
Diuretics, also refered to as "water pills," assist kidneys by increasing natriuresis, or the excretion of water and sodium into urine. They are primarily used to help decrease blood pressure by eliminating the levels of fluid within the vessels. Though there are many medications under the classification of a diuretic, some common brand names prescribed by physicians are Diamox, Thelitone, HydroDiuril, Lasix, Demadex and Dyrenium, notes the American Heart Association.
Calcium Channel Blockers
The primary function of calcium channel blockers is to dilate arteries so there is less pressure on the blood vessel walls. Certain calcium channel blockers may also regulate the force of the heart's contractions, thus reducing the pressure within the vessels. Common brand names of medications are Norvasc, Cardizem, Procardia XL, Sular and Isoptin, according to the American Heart Association.
Beta-Blockers
Beta-blockers reduce the effect of epinephrine on the heart, decreasing heart rate and stress on the system, which in turn decreases the pressure on the vessel walls. They are considered one of the most important contributors to pharmacology and western medicine. Some common brands of beta-blockers that are prescribed by physicians are Sectral, Kerlone, Levatol, Lopressor, Zebeta and Normodyne, says the American Heart Association.
ACE Inhibitors
ACE inhibitors, or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, have an effect similar to the calcium channel blockers in that they can decrease blood pressure by lowering arterial resistance, which increases venous capacity back to the heart. Some commonly prescribed brands of ACE inhibitors are Lotension, Vasotec, Monopril, Altace, Accupril and Prinivil, according to the American Heart Association.
Hypotension Blood Pressure Medications
Medication for treating hypotension, or low blood pressure, are prescribed to patients by a physician only following the elimination of other underlying problems. Hypotension is generally treated with lifestyle modification, but may sometimes warrant pharmacological treatment. Some brands of medications prescribed to treat hypotension include Florinef, Amatine, Mestinon and Epogen, says MayoClinic.com.
