According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, blood pressure is the force of blood against the walls of the arteries. Normal blood pressure falls below 120/80 mm hg, while high blood pressure is consistently above 140/80 mm hg. High blood pressure increases the risk of incurring damage to the heart and other organs. For some, a healthy diet and exercise are enough to keep blood pressure at acceptable levels; however, others require antihypertensive medications to combat high blood pressure.
Diuretics
Diuretics such as spironolactone, hydrochlorothiazide and triamterene decrease blood pressure by causing the body to produce more urine to flush excess salt and water from the body. The Discovery Health website indicates that physicians will often prescribe diuretics as first line treatment since they are relatively safe and inexpensive. They can also be used in combination with any other class of blood pressure medication. Diuretics can cause headaches, fatigue and increased blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
ACE Inhibitors
ACE, or angiotensin-converting enzyme, inhibitors work by blocking the body's production of angiotensin II, which narrows the arteries to raise the blood pressure. When the action of angiotensin II is blocked, the blood vessels are opened wider, and blood flow requires less pressure. The Discovery Health website indicates that these medications are especially useful for individuals with additional health problems since they work quickly. ACE inhibitors include lisinopril, ramipril and captopril. These medications can cause dizziness, loss of taste or fatigue. They should not be used during pregnancy or with antacids or potassium supplements.
Angiotensin-II Receptor Blockers
Angiotensin-II receptor blockers do not block angiotensin II formation like ACE inhibitors, but they prevent arteries from using angiotensin II by blocking its receptor on arterial smooth muscle. This allows the blood vessels to relax and dilate, which lowers blood pressure. Angiotensin II receptor blockers include losartan potassium and irbesartan. Patients should avoid these drugs during pregnancy or when taking potassium supplements. Although angiotensin II receptor blockers can cause diarrhea, dizziness or liver test abnormalities, the Discovery Health website indicates that they are beneficial to many patients because they do not cause the chronic cough sometimes seen with ACE inhibitors.
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