What Everybody Ought to Know about Hypertension Medication, Part 5

Aug 3, 2010 by Emilia

Checking blood pressure

Last but not least, we’ll take a look today at the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) blockers. This hypertension medication works by preventing the conversion of a hormone called angiotensin I to another hormone called angiotensin II.

Angiotensin II is a potent blood-vessel constrictor; by preventing this conversion, the blood vessels relax and the blood pressure decreases, allowing the blood to flow more freely with less pressure through the circulatory system.

At the same time, this process also suppresses the production of aldosterone, so more sodium and fluid is excreted by the kidneys.

ACE are very effective for patients who have high levels of renin, a hormone secreted by the kidneys that combines with angiotensinogen to produce angiotensin I.

Side effects of ACE drugs

ACE inhibitors have been shown to be effective in the treatment of hypertension in people with diabetes. Some of these drugs lower blood pressure without decreasing the flow of blood to the heart, brain, and kidneys. This is in contrast to some diuretics and beta blockers that reduce blood flow to these vital organs. In contrast to beta-blockers, ACE drugs can also improve the exercise tolerance in a bicycle and a treadmill.

Although not common, ACE drugs can cause very low blood pressure. It may also affect the kidneys especially if you have congestive heart failure. They can also lower white-blood-cells, increasing your risk of infection. They usually cause a dry cough.

Most common ACE drugs prescribed
Generic name Brand name

Captopril Capoten, Lopirin

Saralasin Sarenin

Angiotensin II blockers

These drugs work by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a hormone that as we have seen above, plays an important role in regulating blood pressure. This medication does not cause a dry cough as the ACE drugs. Angiotensin II blockers may be useful in treating heart failure and may slow the progression of kidney disease in people with diabetes and high blood pressure.

Side effects

They may cause a drop in blood pressure. When this happens the dosage needs to be reduced. Talk to your doctor.

Most common angiotensin II blockers

Generic name Brand name

Candesartan                     Atacand
Taveten                            Eprosartan
Avalide                            Irbesartan
Hyzaar                             Losartan
Benicar                            Olmesartan
Micardis                          Telmisartan
Diovan                            Valsartan

Warning

If you are currently taking one of these drugs do not suddenly stop taking it, as this could cause a heart attack or sudden death. Any change in your current medication should only be done in consultation with your doctor.

Final Thoughts

Well guys, you have had the chance to see through this series of articles that although hypertension drugs have some merit to lower blood pressure, they also have serious effects in your health. In fact, there are times when they can cause more damage than good.

As you know, high blood pressure by itself can lead to a stroke or a heart attack; when high cholesterol and diabetes are also present, it can be a time bomb. So, why not prevent or control your high blood pressure through exercise and adequate diet? It can be done and yes, you can do it. In this blog you will find many answers you will need to overcome these conditions. Don’t forget to subscribe via RSS or by email to be updated in the coming news.

To your health!

Emilia Klapp, RD, BS
www.TheDiabetesClub.com