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There are a number of medicines used to treat high blood pressure. Each type lowers blood pressure in a unique way. Persons with high blood pressure respond differently to medicines. Individual responses may be based on other diseases, age, family history, or genetics. Blood pressure medicines may be effective alone, or they may be used in combination with other drugs.

Diuretics, or water pills, such as hydrochlorothiazide or furosemide (Lasix) can help lower blood pressure.

Beta blockers are another widely prescribed class of drugs used to treat high blood pressure. Examples include propranolol, atenolol, and metoprolol. Some beta blockers act more specifically than others and may be better for persons with asthma or diabetes.

Calcium channel blockers are another popular drug class. Examples are diltiazem, verapamil, nifedipine, and amlodipine. ACE inhibitors include captopril, enalapril, lisinopril, and others. A common side effect of these types of medicines is a chronic dry cough. These medicines help relax the pressure in blood vessel walls.

Angiotensin II blockers are new agents for hypertension. These drugs work by dilating blood vessels. An example is losartan. It is commonly used with a diuretic. Alpha antagonists include prazosin and terazosin. Faintness or dizziness is common with the first dose of these medications. Taking the first dose at bedtime may eliminate this problem. These drugs also work by relaxing pressure in blood vessel walls.

Clonidine, guanabenz, and methyldopa belong to their own drug class. Vasodilators (drugs that lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessel walls) include hydralazine and minoxidil. These agents are often used in combination with another medicine or diuretic for long-term therapy.

Treatment for high blood pressure is important for the prevention of stroke, kidney failure, and coronary heart diseases. Do not suddenly stop taking any of these medications without your healthcare provider's supervision. For more information regarding your specific therapy, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

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