Hypertensive Drugs

Hypertensive drugs are medicines that are used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). They help relax and dilate blood vessels, which reduces resistance to blood flow and lowers blood pressure.

There are several main classes of hypertensive drugs:

1. ACE inhibitors (captopril, enalapril, lisinopril, etc.) - dilate blood vessels, reduce the load on the heart.

2. Angiotensin II receptor blockers (losartan, valsartan, etc.) - relax blood vessels, reduce fluid retention.

3. Beta blockers (atenolol, bisoprolol, metoprolol, etc.) - slow the heartbeat, reduce cardiac output.

4. Calcium channel blockers (amlodipine, nifedipine, etc.) - dilate arteries.

5. Diuretics (hydrochlorothiazide, furosemide, etc.) - reduce the volume of circulating blood, lowering blood pressure.

Hypertensive drugs are usually well tolerated. Possible side effects include dizziness, weakness, cough, etc. Drugs are often combined to increase effectiveness.