No single drug works the same or “best” for everyone.
This article discusses different types of blood pressure medications, their side effects, and when they’re prescribed.
Combination therapy would involve taking two antihypertensive medications, each from a different drug category.
Verywell / JR Bee
Generally speaking, drugs from each of these classes tend to work equally well in controlling hypertension.
That said, individuals may respond quite differently.
Get our printable guide for your next healthcare provider’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
Get our printable guide for your next healthcare provider’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
Each drug’s brand name(s) is listed first, followed by the generic name.
Diuretics are thought to lower blood pressure mainly by reducing fluid volume in the blood vessels.
ARBs are generally superior to ACE inhibitors due to better efficacy and fewer adverse effects.
These medications can further lower blood pressure and heart rate.
This causes a drop in blood pressure and heart rate.
Aliskiren is the only direct renin inhibitor available.
Thus, most healthcare providers will try this combination first.
That said, there are many single-pill combinations (single tablets that contain two or more medications).
In that case, a thiazide drug will usually be added as a third drug.
When Are Blood Pressure Medications Prescribed?
Blood pressure (BP) is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).
Most treatment goals involve achieving blood pressure less than 120/80 mmHg.
This includes eating aheart-healthy diet, losing weight (if needed), exercising regularly, etc.
Deciding whether or not to start medication for your high blood pressure requires a discussion with your healthcare provider.
In some cases, the decision is clear-cut.
However, any of the drugs used to treat hypertension have the potential to cause side effects.
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