What is blood pressure medicines?

Blood Pressure Medicines
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Antihypertensive medicines

Antihypertensives are medicines that help keep blood pressure within normal limits.

Examples of antihypertensive medicines are diuretics, beta-blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs).

Deciding about using medicine for high blood pressure: Overview

Deciding whether to treat high blood pressure with medicine and choosing the best medicine may depend on:

  • How high your blood pressure is and what your blood pressure goal is.
  • Whether you have signs that high blood pressure has caused organ damage. These signs include an enlarged heart and early damage to your arteries, kidneys, or eyes.
  • Whether you have other medical conditions, such as coronary artery disease, diabetes, or kidney or lung disease.
  • Whether you have a condition that puts you at risk for heart disease, such as diabetes or high cholesterol.
  • Whether you think you can make lifestyle changes that will help you lower your blood pressure.

Doctors usually first prescribe a single, low-dose medicine. If this doesn't work, your doctor may change the dosage. Or you may try a different medicine or combination of medicines. It's common to try several medicines before blood pressure is controlled. Many people need more than one medicine to get the best results.

What are some examples of ACE inhibitors and ARBs for diabetes?

ACE inhibitors include:

  • Benazepril.
  • Lisinopril.
  • Ramipril.

ARBs include:

  • Irbesartan.
  • Losartan.
  • Telmisartan.

What are possible side effects of taking ACE inhibitors and ARBs for diabetes?

All medicines can cause side effects.

Some side effects of ACE inhibitors include:

  • Low blood pressure. You may feel dizzy and weak.
  • A dry cough.
  • High potassium levels.
  • Swelling of your lips, tongue, or face. If the swelling is severe, you may need treatment right away. Severe swelling can make it hard to breathe, but this is rare.

Some side effects of ARBs include:

  • Low blood pressure. You may feel dizzy and weak.
  • High potassium levels.

You may have other side effects or reactions not listed here. Check the information that comes with your medicine.

What do you need to know about taking ACE inhibitors and ARBs for diabetes?

  • Be safe with medicines. Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.
  • Before starting an ACE inhibitor or ARB, tell your doctor if you:
    • Use a salt substitute.
    • Take diuretics or potassium tablets.
  • These medicines are not safe for pregnancy. If you are pregnant or planning to be, talk to your doctor about a safe blood pressure medicine.
  • ACE inhibitors can cause a dry cough. If the cough is bad, talk to your doctor. Switching to an ARB is likely to help.
  • Taking some medicines together can cause problems. Tell your doctor or pharmacist all the medicines you take. This includes over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbal products, and supplements.
  • You may need regular blood and urine tests.

Learning about your blood pressure medicines can help you take them AC

The more you know about your medicines, the easier it will be to stay on your schedule and take your pills properly.

  • Know your medicines.

    Have your doctor clearly explain what each medicine does. Write down both the brand and generic names. Ask your doctor to check the list. You can use the list to make sure that the medicines you get from the pharmacy are correct.

  • Store your medicines properly.

    Your doctor or pharmacist can tell you how to store your medicines. Don't let your medicines get too hot or too cold. Always store them out of the reach of children.

  • Watch for side effects.

    Ask your doctor or pharmacist about what side effects to expect. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have side effects.

  • Have a plan for missed doses.

    Talk with your doctor about what you should do if you miss a dose of a medicine. Discuss what to do for each medicine. It may be different for each one. Write it down.

  • Talk to your doctor before you start taking other medicines.

    This includes other prescription medicines. It also includes over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal pills. Some medicines can interact with each other and keep blood pressure medicines from working right. These include decongestants, antacids, and medicines such as ibuprofen (for example, Advil or Motrin).

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The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.