Medication That Works

Several classes of medications are used to treat high blood pressure. Your doctor will choose based on your health profile.

• ACE inhibitors — relax blood vessels by blocking a hormone that narrows them (e.g., lisinopril, enalapril)
• ARBs — similar to ACE inhibitors but work differently (e.g., losartan, valsartan)
• Calcium channel blockers — prevent calcium from entering heart and artery cells (e.g., amlodipine)
• Diuretics (water pills) — help kidneys remove excess sodium and water (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide)
• Beta-blockers — reduce heart rate and force of heartbeats (e.g., metoprolol)

Many people need more than one medication to reach their goal. That is normal and safe.

Consistency is key. Here are the most important rules for taking your blood pressure medication:

• Never skip a dose — even if you feel well. High BP rarely causes symptoms until serious damage occurs.
• Never stop without consulting your doctor — stopping suddenly can cause a dangerous spike in blood pressure.
• Take it at the same time every day — link it to a daily habit (morning coffee, brushing teeth).
• Report side effects — most can be managed or replaced with another medication.
• Keep all follow-up appointments — your doctor needs to track your progress and adjust doses.