Antihypertensive medications

Antihypertensive medications are drugs used to manage high blood pressure, a condition that can lead to serious health issues like heart attack and stroke. They work by various mechanisms, such as relaxing blood vessels, reducing the heart's workload, or lowering fluid levels in the body. Common classes include diuretics, beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers. Doctors prescribe these medications based on individual health needs, and regular monitoring is essential to ensure effectiveness and minimize side effects. A healthy lifestyle, including diet and exercise, often complements their use for optimal blood pressure control.