Anti-hypertensives

Antihypertensive drugs are medications used to lower high blood pressure (hypertension) and reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney damage. These medications work through various mechanisms to help relax blood vessels, reduce heart rate, or decrease blood volume.

Common types of antihypertensive drugs include:

1. Diuretics: Reduce fluid buildup by promoting urine production.
   • Example: Hydrochlorothiazide.
2. Beta-blockers: Lower heart rate and blood pressure by blocking stress hormones.
   • Example: Metoprolol.
3. ACE inhibitors: Relax blood vessels by inhibiting a hormone that narrows them.
   • Example: Enalapril.
4. Calcium channel blockers: Relax blood vessels and reduce the heart’s pumping force.
   • Example: Amlodipine.
5. Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs): Block the hormone that constricts blood vessels.
   • Example: Losartan.
6. Alpha-blockers: Relax blood vessels by blocking nerve signals.
   • Example: Doxazosin.

These drugs are often used in combination for effective blood pressure management.