1. Amlodipine
Amlodipine is a medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and chest pain (angina). It belongs to a class of drugs called calcium channel blockers (CCBs), which work by relaxing blood vessels so the heart doesn’t have to pump as hard. This helps lower blood pressure and improve blood flow. Medicines Related Blood Pressure(Hypertension)..
Uses
Dosage:
- Commonly prescribed at 2.5 mg, 5 mg, or 10 mg once daily
- Dosage may be adjusted based on response and tolerance
Side Effects
- Common: Swelling in legs/ankles, dizziness, flushing, fatigue
- Serious (rare): Severe dizziness, irregular heartbeat, chest pain worsening
Precautions
- Avoid grapefruit juice (may increase side effects)
- Use caution in people with liver disease or heart conditions
- Not usually recommended during pregnancy unless necessary
2. Atenolol
Atenolol is a beta-blocker used primarily to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), angina (chest pain), and certain heart conditions. It works by slowing down the heart rate and reducing its workload, which helps lower blood pressure and prevent heart-related complications. Medicines Related To Heart Problems.
Uses
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Angina (chest pain)
- Prevention of heart attacks
- Treatment of irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias)
- Off-label: Migraine prevention, anxiety management
How It Works:
- Blocks beta-1 receptors in the heart, slowing heart rate and reducing the force of heart contractions.
- Lowers blood pressure and decreases oxygen demand in the heart.
Dosage (Varies by condition and patient):
- Typically 25 mg to 100 mg once daily.
- Must be taken regularly for best results.
- Do not stop abruptly, as this can cause rebound effects like high blood pressure or heart problems.
Common Side Effects:
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Cold hands and feet
- Slow heart rate (bradycardia)
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
Serious Side Effects (Seek medical help if these occur):
- Worsening heart failure symptoms (swelling, shortness of breath)
- Very slow heart rate
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- Depression or mood change
Who Should Avoid It?:
- People with asthma (can worsen breathing issues)
- Those with very slow heart rates or serious heart block
- People with low blood pressure
- Diabetics should use with caution (can mask low blood sugar symptoms)
Interactions:
- Other blood pressure medications (risk of excessive lowering of BP)
- Insulin and diabetes drugs (may mask low blood sugar symptoms)
- NSAIDs (may reduce effectiveness)
- Calcium channel blockers like verapamil (increased risk of slow heart rate)
3. Telmisartan
Telmisartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used primarily to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events like strokes and heart attacks. It works by relaxing blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood.
Uses
How It Works:
- Blocks angiotensin II, a hormone that tightens blood vessels.
- This relaxes blood vessels, lowering blood pressure and improving blood flow.
Dosage (Varies by condition and patient):
- 20 mg to 80 mg once daily.
- Can be taken with or without food.
- Works best when taken consistently at the same time each day.
Common Side Effects:
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Increased potassium levels (hyperkalemia)
- Back pain
Serious Side Effects (Seek medical help if these occur):
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- High potassium symptoms (weakness, irregular heartbeat)
- Kidney problems (swelling, reduced urine output)
- Allergic reactions (swelling of face, lips, or throat)
Who Should Avoid It?:
- Pregnant women (can harm the baby)
- People with severe kidney or liver disease
- Those with high potassium levels (hyperkalemia)
- Patients on aliskiren (in certain conditions like diabetes)
Drug Interactions:
- Potassium supplements & potassium-sparing diuretics (risk of hyperkalemia)
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) (may reduce effectiveness and harm kidneys)
- Diuretics & other blood pressure medications (risk of very low blood pressure)
- Lithium (can increase lithium toxicity)
4. Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ)
Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is a thiazide diuretic (water pill) used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and fluid retention (edema) caused by conditions such as heart failure, kidney disorders, or liver disease. It works by helping the kidneys remove excess salt and water, reducing blood volume and lowering blood pressure.
Uses
How It Works:
- Increases urine production (diuretic effect)
- Lowers blood volume, leading to decreased blood pressure
- Reduces swelling (edema) by removing excess fluid
Dosage (Varies by condition and patient):
- 12.5 mg to 50 mg once daily
- Best taken in the morning to avoid nighttime urination
Common Side Effects:
- Increased urination (especially at the start)
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Low potassium levels (hypokalemia)
- Muscle cramps
- Dry mouth or dehydration
Serious Side Effects (Seek medical help if these occur):
- Severe dehydration (extreme thirst, confusion, fainting)
- Electrolyte imbalances (weakness, irregular heartbeat)
- Severe low blood pressure (fainting, blurry vision)
- Kidney problems (swelling, decreased urine output)
- High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) – caution in diabetics
Who Should Avoid It?
- People with severe kidney or liver disease
- Those allergic to sulfa drugs
- Patients with low potassium or sodium levels
- People with gout (HCTZ can raise uric acid levels)
Drug Interactions:
- Other diuretics & blood pressure meds (risk of low BP)
- NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) (may reduce effectiveness & harm kidneys)
- Digoxin (low potassium increases toxicity risk)
- Lithium (HCTZ increases lithium levels)
- Diabetes medications (can affect blood sugar levels)
Often Combined With:
HCTZ is frequently combined with other blood pressure medications like Losartan, Telmisartan, Lisinopril, or Atenolol to enhance effectiveness.
5. Losartan
Losartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), reduce the risk of stroke, and protect the kidneys in diabetic patients. It helps relax blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood.
Uses:
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Prevents stroke in people with heart disease
- Protects kidneys in diabetic nephropathy
- May be used for heart failure (off-label)
How It Works:
- Blocks angiotensin II, a hormone that tightens blood vessels
- This causes blood vessels to relax, lowering blood pressure
- Reduces strain on the heart and improves blood flow
Dosage:
- Common doses: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg
- Typically taken once daily, with or without food
- Effects may take weeks to show full benefits
Common Side Effects:
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Increased potassium levels (hyperkalemia)
- Back pain
Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Help):
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- High potassium symptoms (weakness, irregular heartbeat)
- Kidney problems (swelling, reduced urine output)
- Allergic reactions (swelling of face, lips, or throat)
Who Should Avoid It?
- Pregnant women (can harm the baby)
- People with severe kidney or liver disease
- Those with high potassium levels
- Patients taking aliskiren (in diabetes cases)
Losartan vs. Telmisartan?
- Losartan has a shorter half-life (may require dose adjustments)
- Telmisartan provides longer blood pressure control
- Losartan is better for kidney protection in diabetes
6. Enalapril
Enalapril is an ACE (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme) inhibitor used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart failure. It helps relax blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood and lowering blood pressure.
Uses:
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Heart failure (helps improve survival and reduce hospitalizations)
- Kidney protection in diabetes (slows progression of kidney disease)
How It Works:
- Blocks the ACE enzyme, which normally produces angiotensin II (a substance that narrows blood vessels).
- This causes blood vessels to relax, lowering blood pressure and reducing strain on the heart.
Dosage:
- Starting dose: 2.5 mg to 5 mg once daily
- Maintenance dose: 10 mg to 40 mg daily (can be split into 1 or 2 doses)
- Heart failure patients may require lower initial doses.
- Can be taken with or without food.
Common Side Effects:
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Cough (dry, persistent)
- Fatigue
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Increased potassium levels (hyperkalemia)
Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Help):
- Severe allergic reactions (swelling of face, lips, or throat – angioedema)
- Severe low blood pressure (fainting, extreme dizziness)
- High potassium symptoms (weakness, irregular heartbeat)
- Kidney problems (swelling, reduced urine output)
Who Should Avoid It?
- Pregnant women (can cause birth defects)
- People with severe kidney disease
- Those with a history of angioedema
- Patients using aliskiren (especially in diabetes)
Enalapril vs. Losartan?
- Enalapril is an ACE inhibitor, while Losartan is an ARB.
- Enalapril can cause a persistent cough, while Losartan does not.
- Losartan is often preferred if cough or angioedema is an issue.
7. Cilnidipine
Cilnidipine is not an ACE inhibitor. It is a calcium channel blocker (CCB), specifically a dihydropyridine CCB, used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).
How Cilnidipine Works:
- Blocks L-type calcium channels (reduces contraction of blood vessels).
- Also blocks N-type calcium channels (reduces nerve signals that increase blood pressure).
- This relaxes blood vessels, lowers blood pressure, and reduces heart strain.
Key Benefits of Cilnidipine:
✅ Controls hypertension effectively
✅ Causes less reflex tachycardia than amlodipine
✅ May reduce protein loss in urine (good for kidney protection)
✅ Helps in cases of hypertension with diabetes or kidney disease
Common Dosage:
- Usual dose: 5 mg to 20 mg once daily
- Best taken in the morning, with or without food
Side Effects:
- Dizziness
- Flushing
- Mild swelling in feet (less than amlodipine)
- Fatigue
Cilnidipine vs. Amlodipine:
- Cilnidipine blocks both L-type & N-type calcium channels, while Amlodipine only blocks L-type.
- Less swelling (edema) in feet compared to amlodipine.
- Better for patients with high blood pressure and kidney disease.
8. Bisoprolol
Bisoprolol is a beta-blocker (β1-selective blocker) used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), heart failure, and certain heart rhythm disorders. It slows the heart rate, reduces the heart’s workload, and lowers blood pressure.
Uses of Bisoprolol:
✅ High blood pressure (hypertension)
✅Heart failure(reduces risk of hospitalization & improves survival)
✅Angina (chest pain)
(reduces heart strain)
✅Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias, atrial fibrillation)
✅Prevention of heart attacks
How Bisoprolol Works:
- Blocks β1-receptors in the heart, slowing heart rate & reducing blood pressure.
- Reduces oxygen demand, helping in angina (chest pain).
- Improves heart function in heart failure by reducing stress on the heart
Common Dosage:
- Hypertension & angina: 2.5 mg to 10 mg once daily
- Heart failure: Start with 1.25 mg daily and gradually increase to 10 mg
- Best taken in the morning, with or without food.
Common Side Effects:
- Fatigue or dizziness
- Slow heart rate (bradycardia)
- Cold hands & feet
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Shortness of breath (rare, but possible)
Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Help):
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- Extremely slow heart rate
- Shortness of breath or wheezing (especially in asthma patients)
- Worsening heart failure symptoms (swelling, extreme fatigue)
9. Azilsartan
Azilsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It helps relax blood vessels, reducing blood pressure and lowering the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems.
Uses of Azilsartan:
✅ High blood pressure (hypertension)
✅ Protects the heart & blood vessels from damage
✅ Prevents kidney damage in diabetic patients
✅ May reduce the risk of stroke & heart attack
How Azilsartan Works:
- Blocks angiotensin II, a hormone that causes blood vessels to constrict.
- Relaxes blood vessels, lowering blood pressure.
- Reduces strain on the heart & kidneys over time.
Common Dosage:
- Typical starting dose: 40 mg once daily
- Maximum dose: 80 mg once daily
- Can be taken with or without food
- Best taken at the same time every day
Common Side Effects:
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Increased potassium levels (hyperkalemia)
Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Help):
- Severe dizziness or fainting (low BP)
- High potassium symptoms (irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness)
- Kidney problems (swelling, reduced urine output)
- Severe allergic reactions (swelling of face, lips, or throat)
10. Prazosin
Prazosin is an alpha-blocker (α1-adrenergic antagonist) used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)-related nightmares. It helps relax blood vessels and improve blood flow.
Uses of Prazosin:
✅ High blood pressure (hypertension) (lowers BP by relaxing blood vessels)
✅ Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) (helps with urination in men with enlarged prostate)
✅ PTSD-related nightmares & sleep disturbances (reduces adrenaline response)
✅ Raynaud’s disease (improves circulation in fingers & toes)
✅ Heart failure (off-label use)
Common Dosage:
- Hypertension: Start with 1 mg at bedtime; maintenance dose 2-5 mg 2-3 times daily
- PTSD (nightmares): Start with 1 mg at bedtime, increased gradually to 10 mg if needed
- BPH: 2-5 mg twice daily
Common Side Effects:
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fatigue
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Headache
- Nausea
Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Help):
- Severe drop in blood pressure (fainting, extreme dizziness)
- Fast or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
- Swelling in hands/feet
- Prolonged or painful erection (priapism, rare but serious)
