Hypertension Treatment Overview

What is the primary mechanism of action for diuretics in treating hypertension?

Which medication class works by blocking the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system to help lower blood pressure?

What effect do calcium channel blockers have on blood pressure?

Which of the following drugs is classified as an alpha 1 blocker?

What is the primary therapeutic action of direct vasodilators like minoxidil in treating hypertension?

Treatment of Hypertension

Diuretics: Help with the excretion of retained salt and water; commonly used examples include thiazide diuretics.
Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors: Medications such as Capoten block the action of the angiotensin converting enzyme, which helps in reducing blood pressure by preventing vasoconstriction and the secretion of aldosterone.
Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs): Examples include Losartan; these medications block the effects of angiotensin II, contributing to lower blood pressure.
Beta Blockers: Medications like Tenormin and Atenolol are utilized to treat mild hypertension by decreasing cardiac output, which lowers blood pressure.
Calcium Channel Blockers: Norvasc works by causing arteriolar dilation, thereby reducing blood pressure through relaxation of blood vessel walls.
Alpha 1 Blockers: Medications such as Cardura inhibit the adrenergic effects on blood vessel walls, causing vasodilation and are effective in rapidly reducing blood pressure during hypertensive crises.
Direct Vasodilators: Drugs like Minoxidil and Hydralazine directly relax blood vessels, which helps to lower blood pressure effectively.

This quiz covers various treatments for hypertension, including diuretics, angiotensin convertase inhibitors, beta blockers, and calcium channel blockers. Each medication's mechanism and examples will be discussed to help understand their impact on blood pressure regulation.