Medications for high blood pressure are vital for helping to prevent a range of complications, including heart disease and stroke.
This article outlines the various blood pressure medications along with their associated side effects and risks.
Share on Pinterest Blood pressure medications may cause different side effects.
Excess salt can cause a buildup of fluid within the blood vessels, which raises blood pressure. Diuretics help the body eliminate excess salt and water by increasing urine output.
Possible side effects of diuretics include:
- weakness
- dizziness or light-headedness
- heightened sensitivity to sunlight
- rashes
- muscle cramps
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- constipation
- low blood pressure
- electrolyte imbalances
People taking diuretics may also experience a decreased libido, though this is less common.
Some medications can interact with diuretics, so a person should speak to a doctor about all of the drugs they are taking. Drugs that may interact with diuretics include:
- digitalis and digoxin
- other medications for high blood pressure
- some antidepressants
- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- lithium
- cyclosporine, an immunosuppressant
Diuretics may not be suitable for people who tend to become dehydrated quickly. They can also make the following conditions worse:
- diabetes
- pancreatitis
- kidney problems
- lupus
- gout
- menstrual problems
Beta-blockers reduce blood pressure by blocking the effects of certain stress hormones, such as epinephrine.
Blocking these hormones slows down the nerve impulses traveling through the heart. As a result, the heart rate slows down and pumps blood less forcefully around the body.
Some side effects of beta-blockers may include:
- tiredness or fatigue
- weakness or dizziness
- cold hands and feet
- dry mouth, eyes, and skin
Less common side effects include:
- slow heartbeat
- wheezing or difficulty breathing
- swelling of the hands or feet
- rash or itchy skin
- insomnia
- depression
- low blood pressure
Some drugs and medications can change the effectiveness of beta-blockers. These include:
- alcohol
- caffeine
- other blood pressure medications
- cough and cold medications, including antihistamines and decongestants
- insulin and some oral medications for diabetes
- allergy shots
- medicines to treat asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- some antidepressants
Beta-blockers may not be suitable for people with the following conditions or problems:
- poor circulation
- a slow heart rate
- diabetes
- hypoglycemia
- chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or COPD
- asthma
- overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
- kidney or liver disease
- food allergies