Most people will experience hypertension or high blood pressure as they get older, the Mayo Clinic reports. Hypertension typically occurs because your blood vessels become constricted or blocked. This causes your heart to pump harder to get the blood and oxygen to your extremities. If left untreated, hypertension can lead to strokes and heart attacks, both of which are life-threatening conditions. There are many different types of drugs used in the treatment of hypertension. How they are prescribed will depend on your specific needs.
Thiazide Diuretics
Thiazide diuretics are the most common first step to controlling high blood pressure. They commonly are called water pills because they work to make your body expel more water and sodium. This decreases the volume of blood in your body. Thiazide diuretics are sold in the United States as Diuril and Zaroxolyn, or as the generic hydrochlorothiazide. The most common side effects of these types of drugs include lightheadedness or dizziness, headaches and cramps in your muscles, Drugs.com states.
Calcium Channel Blockers
Medications known as calcium channel blockers also may be prescribed to treat high blood pressure, the Mayo Clinic reports. They function by relaxing the blood vessel muscles so they cannot constrict. This makes it easier for your heart to pump blood, which eases its workload. There are many calcium channel blockers on the market, including Norvasc, Sular, Procardia and Plendil. Common side effects may include pain in your abdomen, headaches, drowsiness and flushing.
Vasodilators
Vasodilators sold in the United States include minoxidil and hydralazine. They work by dilating blood vessels, thus making it easier for your heart to pump blood through them. Common non-serious side effects include nausea, vomiting, a rapid heart rate, diarrhea and appetite loss, RxList.com states.
ACE Inhibitors
ACE inhibitors, or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, also work to relax the muscles that control your blood vessels. They do this by blocking the production of angiotensin II. Drugs of this type include brand names Mavik, Univasc, Capoten, Lotensin and Vasotec. Serious common side effects may include vision blurring, mental confusion, fatigue and feeling faint when rising from a prone position.
Alpha Blockers
Drugs such as Cardura, Flomax, Hytrin and Minipress are known as alpha blockers. They block the effects of norepinephrine which constricts vein and artery walls. Alpha-blockers can be long-acting or short-acting. The short-acting type gives a quick effect that fade rapidly. Long-acting alpha-blockers do not work immediately, but have longer lasting effects. The most common serious side effects of alpha blockers include sudden fainting or lightheadedness when rising.
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