hypotensive drug
Quick Summary
Hypotensive drugs are medications used to treat hypertension, or high blood pressure. Hypertension occurs when blood pressure is abnormally high, forcing the heart to work harder and potentially leading to organ damage. These drugs work by affecting the cardiovascular system, specifically the heart and blood vessels.123
They can influence the heart's contraction force and rate, or affect blood vessel diameter by causing them to relax (vasodilation) or contract (vasoconstriction). Common classes include diuretics, beta-blockers, vasodilators, calcium channel blockers, and ACE inhibitors, each working through different mechanisms to lower blood pressure. While effective, these medications can have side effects and require careful monitoring.123
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