What are the eight types of antihypertensive drugs for hypertension?

Feb 04, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Generally speaking, there is no such thing as "eight antihypertensive drugs for high blood pressure." Commonly used antihypertensive medications for hypertension include diuretics, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, and angiotensin II receptor antagonists. These medications should be used only as directed by a physician. If any adverse reactions occur after taking the medication, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly.

Generally speaking, there is no such thing as "eight antihypertensive drugs for hypertension." Commonly used antihypertensive medications for managing high blood pressure include diuretics, β-blockers, calcium channel blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, and angiotensin II receptor antagonists. Medication use should follow medical advice, and if adverse reactions occur during treatment, prompt medical attention is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Diuretics

Diuretics reduce blood volume by increasing urine output, thereby decreasing cardiac load and lowering blood pressure. These medications promote the excretion of sodium and water, reduce circulating blood volume, and lower peripheral vascular resistance. Commonly used diuretics include hydrochlorothiazide tablets, indapamide sustained-release tablets, and spironolactone tablets.

2. β-Blockers

β-blockers include bisoprolol fumarate capsules, labetalol hydrochloride tablets, and metoprolol tartrate sustained-release tablets. These drugs work by blocking β-receptors in the heart and peripheral blood vessels, slowing heart rate, reducing myocardial contractility and cardiac output, thus lowering blood pressure.

3. Calcium Channel Blockers

Calcium channel blockers include nifedipine controlled-release tablets, felodipine sustained-release tablets, and verapamil hydrochloride tablets. These medications inhibit calcium influx through cell membrane calcium channels, reducing intracellular calcium levels, relaxing vascular smooth muscle, dilating blood vessels, and decreasing peripheral vascular resistance. They can also slow heart rate and reduce cardiac workload.

4. Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors

ACE inhibitors include benazepril hydrochloride tablets, irbesartan tablets, and compound captopril tablets. These drugs lower blood pressure by inhibiting the activity of angiotensin-converting enzyme, preventing the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, thereby reducing angiotensin II levels.

5. Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonists

Angiotensin II receptor antagonists include losartan potassium tablets, valsartan tablets, and telmisartan tablets. These medications selectively block angiotensin II receptors, inhibiting the physiological effects of angiotensin II, thus achieving a blood pressure-lowering effect.

Patients should not discontinue medication without medical guidance. Smoking and alcohol consumption should be avoided during treatment. Additionally, spicy foods such as chili peppers and garlic should be avoided in the diet to prevent interference with drug efficacy.