Drug treatments: Other drugs

Other drugs used to treat high blood pressure include angiotensin-receptor blockers, vasodilators, and alpha blockers.

Angiotensin-receptor blockers

Drugs known as angiotensin-receptor blockers (ARBs) block the effects of angiotensin, a hormone that would otherwise cause arteries to constrict. They are similar to ACE inhibitors in their action and ability to both lower blood pressure and protect the kidneys, but may have fewer or less severe side effects, including cough. They may even improve sexual function in men.

Vasodilators

Vasodilators, which widen blood vessels, are often used in combination with a diuretic or a beta blocker. They are almost never used by themselves. Representative vasodilators include hydralazine (Apresoline), clonidine (Catapres -- available in tablets or as a skin patch), and minoxidil (Loniten). Some of these drugs should be used with caution, or NOT at all by people with angina, heart failure, or those who have had a recent heart attack.

Alpha blockers

Alpha blockers, such as doxazosin (Cardura) and prazosin (Minipress), widen blood vessels, thereby reducing blood pressure. However, a major study on doxazosin was stopped when it was associated with a higher risk of chest pain, stroke, and heart failure compared with a diuretic. At this time, until more is known, they are only recommended for reducing blood pressure if no other agents are effective.

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