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Blood Pressure Medications: What You Need to Know
High blood pressure is common, but the meds that control it are straightforward once you know the basics. This page explains the main drug classes, what they do, side effects to watch for, and simple steps to stay safe and get the right treatment.
Major drug classes and how they work
ACE inhibitors (like lisinopril) relax blood vessels by blocking an enzyme. ARBs (like losartan) do a similar job but work on a different target, and they often cause fewer coughs. Calcium channel blockers (amlodipine) slow calcium entry into muscle cells, relaxing arteries and lowering pressure. Beta-blockers (metoprolol) reduce heart rate and the force of contractions. Diuretics (hydrochlorothiazide) help the body remove salt and water, lowering blood volume.
Each class fights high blood pressure in a different way. Doctors often combine two drugs from different classes to get better control with fewer side effects.
Side effects, safety checks, and when to call your doctor
Common side effects vary by class. ACE inhibitors can cause a dry cough or, rarely, swelling of the face. ARBs may cause dizziness or headaches. Calcium channel blockers can cause ankle swelling and flushing. Beta-blockers may make you tired or worsen asthma. Diuretics can change electrolyte levels—watch for muscle cramps, weakness, or irregular heartbeat.
Before starting treatment, your doctor should check kidney function and electrolytes, and review other meds you take. Don’t mix potassium supplements with potassium-sparing diuretics without medical advice. Avoid sudden stopping of beta-blockers—your heart may react badly. If you get fainting, chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or sudden swelling, seek medical help right away.
Pregnancy matters. ACE inhibitors and ARBs can harm a fetus. If you’re pregnant or planning pregnancy, tell your doctor before taking any blood pressure drug.
Measure at home. Use a validated cuff and take readings at the same time each day. Keep a log for your doctor. Home readings often give a clearer picture than a one-off clinic reading.
Lifestyle changes still help. Cutting salt, losing weight, moving more, and limiting alcohol can reduce how much medication you need. Think of drugs as part of a plan, not the whole plan.
Buying meds online? Use licensed pharmacies and always keep a prescription. Cheap sites without prescriptions are risky—medicines may be fake, expired, or unsafe. If you order from a Canadian pharmacy, check that they require a valid prescription and show contact details and a license number.
Keep an open line with your doctor. If side effects bother you or your blood pressure isn’t controlled, there are often easy alternatives. The goal is a safe dose you can stick with and that protects your heart and kidneys for the long run.
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