What are the blood pressure medications with fewer side effects?
Mar 03, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Bai Hongmei
Introduction
In general, antihypertensive medications with fewer side effects commonly include amlodipine besylate tablets, valsartan capsules, metoprolol succinate sustained-release tablets, hydrochlorothiazide tablets, and perindopril tert-butylamine tablets. It is recommended to strictly follow medical instructions regarding the timing and dosage of antihypertensive medications. Do not adjust the dosage or discontinue the medication on your own, as this may cause blood pressure fluctuations and lead to adverse consequences.
Generally, antihypertensive medications with mild side effects commonly include amlodipine besylate tablets, valsartan capsules, metoprolol succinate sustained-release tablets, hydrochlorothiazide tablets, and perindopril tert-butylamine tablets. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Amlodipine Besylate Tablets
Amlodipine besylate tablets are a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker that lowers blood pressure by inhibiting calcium ion influx into vascular smooth muscle cells, causing vasodilation and reducing peripheral vascular resistance. Side effects are generally mild and infrequent, including edema and headache.
2. Valsartan Capsules
Valsartan capsules belong to the class of angiotensin II receptor antagonists. They selectively block the binding of angiotensin II to its receptors, thereby inhibiting vasoconstriction and aldosterone release, which lowers blood pressure. Side effects are relatively few, and it generally does not cause dry cough. It has no adverse effects on glucose or lipid metabolism, is well tolerated, and is suitable for most patients with hypertension.
3. Metoprolol Succinate Sustained-Release Tablets
Metoprolol succinate sustained-release tablets are selective β1-receptor blockers that reduce heart rate, myocardial contractility, cardiac output, and renin release, thereby lowering blood pressure. Common side effects include bradycardia and fatigue. With appropriate dosing, the probability of adverse effects is low, and the sustained-release formulation provides stable and long-lasting effects.
4. Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets
Hydrochlorothiazide tablets are thiazide diuretics that reduce blood volume by promoting sodium and water excretion, thereby lowering peripheral vascular resistance and blood pressure. When used in low doses, side effects are minimal and include hypokalemia and hyperuricemia. These effects occur at relatively low rates. It can be combined with other antihypertensive drugs to enhance blood pressure control while reducing individual drug dosages and minimizing side effects.
5. Perindopril Tert-Butylamine Tablets
Perindopril tert-butylamine tablets are angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors that lower blood pressure by inhibiting the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, reducing aldosterone secretion, and promoting vasodilation. Side effects are generally mild. Although dry cough may occur, the overall incidence is lower than with other ACE inhibitors. Additionally, it can improve myocardial remodeling and is beneficial for patients with hypertension complicated by left ventricular hypertrophy or heart failure.
It is recommended to strictly follow medical instructions regarding dosage and timing when taking antihypertensive medications. Do not adjust the dose or discontinue the medication on your own, as this may cause blood pressure fluctuations and lead to adverse outcomes. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a low-salt and low-fat diet, regular physical activity, smoking cessation, alcohol moderation, and psychological well-being, can help medications better control blood pressure.
