Types of Medications for Hypertension

• Diuretics (Water Pills): Diuretics help the kidneys remove excess salt and water from the body, reducing blood volume and lowering blood pressure. They are often the first type of medication prescribed for hypertension because they are lower risk compared to some other antihypertensive medications. Common diuretics include hydrochlorothiazide, chlorthalidone and furosemide.
• ACE Inhibitors (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors): ACE inhibitors like lisinopril, enalapril and ramipril work by relaxing blood vessels and reducing the production of a hormone that causes blood vessels to constrict.
• ARBs (Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers): Similar to ACE inhibitors, ARBs also help relax blood vessels, but they work by blocking the action of the hormone rather than reducing its production. Common ARBs include losartan, valsartan and candesartan.
• Calcium Channel Blockers: These medications prevent calcium from entering the muscle cells of the heart and blood vessels, leading to relaxed blood vessels and lower blood pressure. Examples include amlodipine, diltiazem and verapamil.
• Beta-Blockers: Beta-blockers reduce the workload on the heart by slowing down the heart rate and decreasing the force of heartbeats. Common beta-blockers include metoprolol, atenolol and propranolol.
• Alpha-Blockers: Alpha-blockers, like doxazosin and prazosin, relax blood vessels by blocking the action of certain nerve impulses that tighten blood vessels.
• Vasodilators: Vasodilators work directly on the muscles in the walls of your arteries, preventing them from tightening and the arteries from narrowing. Hydralazine and minoxidil are common vasodilators.

The Importance of Adherence to Medication

Not taking your medication as directed can lead to uncontrolled blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney disease and other major health issues.

Adherence to prescription plans can be a life-or-death matter for people with hypertension. That’s why it’s important to always take your medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Pill organizers, daily alarms or apps for medication management can be helpful if you or a loved one have difficulty remembering to take medications or have a particularly complicated medication regime.

Managing Side Effects

While hypertension medications are generally safe for the average person, they can sometimes cause side effects.

• Diuretics: May cause increased urination, electrolyte imbalances or dehydration. Staying hydrated and having regular blood tests to monitor electrolytes can help manage these effects.
• ACE Inhibitors and ARBs: Can cause a persistent dry cough, elevated potassium levels or, in rare cases, angioedema (swelling of deeper layers of the skin).
• Calcium Channel Blockers: May cause swelling in the lower extremities, constipation or dizziness. Having your doctor adjust your dosage or switching medications may alleviate these symptoms.
• Beta-Blockers: Possible side effects include fatigue, cold hands and feet and slow heart rate. It’s important to never stop beta-blockers abruptly, as this can cause a sudden increase in blood pressure.

If you are experiencing any of these side effects, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider or ask your pharmacist for advice.

Monitoring and Follow-Up

Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are essential for managing hypertension. These visits allow your provider to:

• Monitor Blood Pressure: Regular monitoring ensures that your medication is effectively controlling your blood pressure.
• Adjust Medications: Your provider may need to adjust your medication dosage or change your prescription if your blood pressure is not adequately controlled or if you experience side effects.
• Assess Overall Health: Hypertension can impact various organs, including the heart, kidneys and eyes. Regular check-ups help in early detection and management of any complications.

Medication Management for Your Hypertension in Houston, TX

At St. Hope Healthcare, our team of healthcare professionals aims to go above and beyond to help Houston patients with hypertension manage their medication. Book your appointment online or contact us at (713) 778-1300 for more information on our healthcare services.