EPCC Pharmacology - Hypertension Drug Therapy PDF

VI. CLASSES OF ANTI-HYPERTENSIVE DRUGS 1. Diuretics 2. Drugs that suppress the RAAS System—ACE Inhibitors, ARBs, Direct Renin Inhibitors, and Aldosterone Receptor Blockers. 3. Sympatholytics (Antiadrenergic Drugs) 4. Calcium Channel Blockers 5. Direct-acting vasodilators VII. HYPERTENSION DRUG THERA...

VI. CLASSES OF ANTI-HYPERTENSIVE DRUGS 1. Diuretics 2. Drugs that suppress the RAAS System—ACE Inhibitors, ARBs, Direct Renin Inhibitors, and Aldosterone Receptor Blockers. 3. Sympatholytics (Antiadrenergic Drugs) 4. Calcium Channel Blockers 5. Direct-acting vasodilators VII. HYPERTENSION DRUG THERAPY CONCEPTS Still do lifestyle changes first First-line drug choice is usually a thiazide diuretic, alone or with an ACE inhibitor. Then change dose or add other drugs if not effective, to individualize therapy. Initial drug selection is often based on comorbid conditions or special populations: o If renal disease—ACE inhibitors & ARBs are best o If diabetes—ACE inhibitors, ARBs and diuretic o African American population use calcium channel blocker or thiazide and are more likely to have severe hypertension o Beta adrenergic blockers in smaller doses work better in Asian heritage How to promote adherence to taking the prescribed medications when there are often no symptoms for high blood pressure, but there are side effects of the medications! VIII. HYPERTENSIVE EMERGENCIES—sodium nitroprusside