High blood pressure, also referred to as hypertension, can lead to serious health complications such as heart attack, stroke and kidney disease when left untreated. A number of medications are available to help lower blood pressure. These medications, called antihypertensives, are often prescribed in combination with one another to ensure maximum effectiveness. Learning as much as possible about these drugs will help make you the best decision when it comes to your course of treatment.
Metolazone
Metolazone belongs to a class of antihypertensives known as diuretics. They work by clearing the kidneys of excess salt and water, which are both factors in the development of hypertension. According to healthcentral.com, diuretics are typically the first drug prescribed to treat high blood pressure, and metolazone may be the diuretic your doctor chooses for you. As with any drug, metolazone has side effects; the most common is a decrease in the body's potassium supply. This may cause leg cramps and make you feel both weak and tired. According to the American Heart Association, diabetics may notice an increase in blood sugar levels. While the change usually isn't drastic, the physician may order a different antihypertensive medication or adjust the treatment plan for the diabetes.
Metoprolol Succinate
Metoprolol succinate, known better as Toprol-XL, belongs to the drug family known as beta-blockers. Beta-blockers help reduce blood pressure by decreasing the amount of work the heart has to do. They achieve this effect by slowing the heart rate, which reduces the output of blood. In many cases, beta-blockers are used in combination with other antihypertensives such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and diuretics. According to healthcentral.com, however, combining a beta-blocker with a diuretic may increase risk of diabetes, while the beta-blocker itself poses an increased risk of stroke. This is based on evidence presented at a meeting of the American College of Cardiology in 2005. The most common side effects of metoprolol succinate are diarrhea, dry mouth, headache, light-headedness and muscle aches.
Lisinopril
Classified as ACE inhibitors, medications like lisinopril reduce blood pressure by helping blood vessels relax and opening them up, making it easier for blood to flow through. According to healthcentral.com, diabetics taking ACE inhibitors experienced fewer heart attacks than patients taking other antihypertensive medications. The most common side effects associated with this drug are a persistent cough, depression and dizziness.
Felodipine
Falling under the category of calcium channel blockers, felodipine works in two ways to help lower blood pressure. It helps relax the blood vessels, allowing them to open up and become wider. It also prevents calcium from entering the smooth muscles of the heart; this reduces pressure on the heart since calcium makes the heart contract harder. Some of the side effects you may experience with felodipine are fatigue, insomnia, nausea or diarrhea and pain in muscles or joints.
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