High Blood Pressure Medicine 

High blood pressure medicine helps lower blood pressure and reduce the strain placed on the heart and blood vessels. These medicines are also called antihypertensive medications and are available in several drug classes that work in different ways. 

Common blood pressure medicines include ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), calcium channel blockers, diuretics, and beta-blockers. Some people need one medicine, while others may need two or more medicines to reach their blood pressure goal. 

Blood Pressure Medication at a Glance 

Blood pressure medication is prescribed to help lower high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. Many of these medicines are available as oral pills or tablets, while some treatment plans use combination tablets containing more than one medicine. 

Common types include: 

Medicine Class Common Examples Common Form 
ACE inhibitors Lisinopril, Enalapril, Ramipril Tablet 
ARBs Losartan, Valsartan, Telmisartan Tablet 
Calcium channel blockers Amlodipine, Nifedipine, Diltiazem Tablet 
Diuretics Hydrochlorothiazide, Chlorthalidone, Furosemide Tablet 
Beta-blockers Metoprolol, Atenolol, Bisoprolol Tablet 

The most suitable BP medicine depends on a person’s blood pressure, other health conditions, current medicines, and treatment needs. Some people may need a combination of medicines to control their blood pressure. 

How Does High Blood Pressure Medicine Work? 

Different hypertension medicines lower blood pressure through different mechanisms. Some relax blood vessels, some slow the heart, and others help the body remove extra sodium and fluid. 

Depending on the medicine, it may: 

  • Relax and widen blood vessels 
  • Reduce the amount of fluid and sodium in the body 
  • Slow the heart rate 
  • Reduce the force with which the heart pumps 
  • Block hormones that cause blood vessels to narrow 
  • Reduce resistance in the arteries 

Because these medicines work differently, a healthcare professional may prescribe more than one type. Combination treatment can also be available as a single blood pressure pill containing two medicines. 

Common Types of Blood Pressure Medicine 

There are several classes of high blood pressure medications. Each class works in a different way and may be selected based on a person’s individual medical needs. 

ACE Inhibitors 

ACE inhibitors help blood vessels relax by reducing the production of angiotensin II, a substance that causes blood vessels to narrow. 

Common ACE inhibitor medicines include: 

  • Lisinopril 
  • Enalapril 
  • Ramipril 
  • Captopril 
  • Benazepril 
  • Perindopril 

ACE inhibitors are commonly used to treat high blood pressure and may also be useful in people with certain heart or kidney conditions. 

Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs) 

ARBs work by blocking the action of angiotensin II. This helps blood vessels remain more relaxed and can lower blood pressure. 

Common ARB medicines include: 

  • Losartan 
  • Valsartan 
  • Telmisartan 
  • Irbesartan 
  • Olmesartan 
  • Candesartan 
  • Azilsartan 

ARBs are an important group of hypertension drugs and may be used when an ARB is considered more suitable for a patient. 

Calcium Channel Blockers 

Calcium channel blockers help relax blood vessels by affecting the movement of calcium into certain heart and blood vessel cells. Some medicines in this group can also slow the heart rate. 

Common calcium channel blockers include: 

  • Amlodipine 
  • Nifedipine 
  • Diltiazem 
  • Verapamil 
  • Felodipine 
  • Nicardipine 

Amlodipine is one of the commonly prescribed blood pressure tablets in this class. 

Diuretics 

Diuretics, often called water pills, help the kidneys remove excess sodium and water from the body through urine. This can reduce the amount of fluid circulating in the bloodstream and help lower blood pressure. 

Common diuretics include: 

  • Hydrochlorothiazide 
  • Chlorthalidone 
  • Indapamide 
  • Furosemide 
  • Torsemide 
  • Spironolactone 

Thiazide-type diuretics are among the commonly recommended medication options for treating hypertension. 

Beta-Blockers 

Beta-blockers can reduce the heart rate and the force of the heart’s contractions. This can lower blood pressure and reduce the heart’s workload. 

Common beta-blockers include: 

  • Metoprolol 
  • Atenolol 
  • Bisoprolol 
  • Carvedilol 
  • Propranolol 
  • Nebivolol 
  • Labetalol 

Beta-blockers may be particularly useful when high blood pressure occurs alongside certain heart conditions. 

Other Blood Pressure Medications 

Some people may need other antihypertensive medicines when their blood pressure is not adequately controlled with commonly used classes or when another medical condition affects the choice of treatment. 

Other classes include: 

  • Alpha-blockers 
  • Central alpha-2 agonists 
  • Direct vasodilators 
  • Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists 

Examples include doxazosin, clonidine, methyldopa, hydralazine, spironolactone, and eplerenone. 

These medicines are not appropriate for everyone, so the choice depends on the person’s medical history and treatment plan. 

Blood Pressure Pills and Tablets 

Many blood pressure pills are taken by mouth once or more times a day, depending on the medicine and prescribed dose. Tablets may contain one active ingredient or combine two different blood pressure medicines. 

Common oral blood pressure tablets include: 

  • Lisinopril tablets 
  • Losartan tablets 
  • Valsartan tablets 
  • Amlodipine tablets 
  • Hydrochlorothiazide tablets 
  • Metoprolol tablets 
  • Atenolol tablets 
  • Chlorthalidone tablets 

Combination BP tablets may contain two blood pressure medicines in a single pill. This can simplify treatment for people who need more than one medication. 

Combination Blood Pressure Medication 

Some people need more than one medicine to control high blood pressure. Instead of taking separate pills, a healthcare professional may prescribe a combination blood pressure medication containing two or more active ingredients. 

Examples can include combinations involving: 

  • An ACE inhibitor and a calcium channel blocker 
  • An ARB and a calcium channel blocker 
  • An ARB and a diuretic 
  • An ACE inhibitor and a diuretic 

Combination treatment is selected according to individual blood pressure levels, medical conditions, and response to treatment. 

High Blood Pressure Medicine Side Effects 

Like other medicines, blood pressure medications can cause side effects. The effects depend on the specific medicine and its drug class. 

Possible side effects may include: 

  • Dizziness 
  • Headache 
  • Tiredness 
  • Low blood pressure 
  • Increased urination 
  • Swelling in the ankles or legs 
  • Changes in heart rate 
  • Electrolyte changes 

Some ACE inhibitors may cause a persistent dry cough, while diuretics can increase urination. Calcium channel blockers such as amlodipine may cause swelling in the lower legs or ankles. The side effects of beta-blockers can include tiredness and a slower heart rate. 

Do not stop taking a blood pressure medicine or change the dose without speaking with your healthcare professional. 

FAQs About High Blood Pressure Medicine 

What is high blood pressure medicine used for? 

High blood pressure medicine is used to lower elevated blood pressure and help reduce the strain on the heart and blood vessels. Different medicines work in different ways. 

What are the most common blood pressure medications? 

Common classes include ACE inhibitors, ARBs, calcium channel blockers, diuretics, and beta-blockers. Examples include lisinopril, losartan, amlodipine, hydrochlorothiazide, and metoprolol. 

What are blood pressure pills? 

Blood pressure pills are oral medicines used to lower high blood pressure. They may contain one active ingredient or combine two blood pressure medicines in one tablet. 

Are blood pressure medicine and hypertension medication the same? 

Yes. Blood pressure medicine, blood pressure medication, and hypertension medication are commonly used terms for medicines that help lower high blood pressure. 

What is the most common medicine for high blood pressure? 

There is no single medicine that is best for everyone. Commonly used first-line classes include thiazide-type diuretics, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, and calcium channel blockers. The appropriate choice depends on individual health needs. 

What are water pills for blood pressure? 

Water pills are another name for diuretics. They help the kidneys remove excess sodium and water from the body, which can help lower blood pressure. 

Can you take more than one blood pressure medicine? 

Yes. Some people need two or more blood pressure medications to reach their treatment goal. Combination tablets can place more than one medicine into a single pill. 

What is the difference between ACE inhibitors and ARBs? 

Both medicines affect the renin-angiotensin system and help blood vessels stay more relaxed. ACE inhibitors reduce the production of angiotensin II, while ARBs block angiotensin II from acting on its receptor. 

Are blood pressure medicines available as tablets? 

Yes. Many hypertension medicines are available as oral tablets, including lisinopril, losartan, valsartan, amlodipine, hydrochlorothiazide, and metoprolol. 

Can blood pressure medication be stopped when blood pressure becomes normal? 

Normal blood pressure while taking medication does not necessarily mean the medicine is no longer needed. Blood pressure treatment should not be stopped or changed without guidance from a healthcare professional. 

High Blood Pressure Medicine Resources 

Explore more medicine-focused information about hypertension treatment: 

  • ACE Inhibitors: Learn about medicines such as lisinopril, enalapril, and ramipril. 
  • ARBs: Explore medicines such as losartan, valsartan, and telmisartan. 
  • Calcium Channel Blockers: Learn about amlodipine, nifedipine, and other medicines in this class. 
  • Diuretics: Find information about water pills such as hydrochlorothiazide and chlorthalidone. 
  • Beta-Blockers: Explore medicines such as metoprolol, atenolol, and bisoprolol. 
  • Blood Pressure Tablets: Learn about commonly prescribed oral hypertension medicines. 
  • Combination Blood Pressure Medicines: Explore tablets containing more than one blood pressure medication. 

Editorial Sources 

Our high blood pressure medicine content is developed and reviewed using information from recognized medical, regulatory, and scientific sources. 

  • National Library of Medicine (NLM) — Medical literature and evidence used to support medicine-related information. 
  • U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) — Drug approval, labeling, safety, and prescribing information. 

These sources help support accurate, current, and patient-friendly information about high blood pressure medicine and hypertension medication. 

Disclaimer 

This content is provided for general informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Blood pressure medicines should be used only as directed by a qualified healthcare professional. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. 

Showing 1–12 of 64 resultsSorted by price: low to high

  • Generic Bystolic

    Active Ingredient Nebivolol Hydrochloride
    TreatsHigh Blood Pressure
    Drug ClassBeta blocker

    Nebivolol Hydrochloride is the component in Bystolic medicine. This medicine is a once-a-day medication that is prescribed for the treatment of blood pressure. It helps to lower blood pressure and belongs to a group of medicine called “beta blockers.” The medicine is thought to work on some days’ consumption by slowing the heart rate and lowering how hard the heart has to work. The medicine reduces the blood pressure in adults when it was used alone or when it was consumed with some other blood pressure–lowering solutions.

  • Valeant Vaseretic

    Price range: $20.10 through $150.96

    Vaseretic is a medication contains active components Enalapril Maleate and Hydrochlorothiazide. It is used to treat hypertension and edema. It has been offered by leading pharmaceutical companies, Valeant Pharmaceuticals North America LLC. It is made available in dosages as 5 mg + 12.5 mg and 10 mg + 25 mg. It is composed of a conventional tablet for oral consumption.

    Manufacturer: Valeant Pharmaceuticals North America LLC

  • Bristol-Myers Squibb Avapro

    Price range: $20.40 through $86.70

    Avapro is a popular medication used in the treatment of high blood pressure. It is composed of active component Irbesartan. It belongs to a class of drugs known as angiotensin II receptor blockers. It also treat kidney problems caused due to type-2 diabetes. One of the renowned pharmaceutical companies, Bristol-Myers Squibb manufactures this drug. It is made available in a conventional tablet form in dosages such as 150 mg and 300 mg.

    Manufacturer: Bristol-Myers Squibb

  • Boehringer Ingelheim Twynsta

    Price range: $20.40 through $157.08

    Twynsta is a combination of two active ingredients Telmisartan / Amlodipine Besylate. It is indicated for the treatment of high blood pressure. It is manufactured by the well-known pharmaceutical company, Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma. It is offered in the form of a conventional tablet form for oral administration. The available dosages are Telmisartan 5 mg + Amlodipine Besylate 40 mg and Telmisartan 5 mg + Amlodipine Besylate 80 mg.

    Manufacturer: Boehringer Ingelheim Pharma

  • G.D. Searle Aldactazide

    Price range: $20.40 through $86.70

    Aldactazide is an effective medicine used in the treatment of high blood pressure. It has a combination of two active ingredients, Spironolactone / Hydrochlorothiazide. It is a combination of an aldosterone receptor antagonist and diuretic. It is manufactured by the leading pharmaceutical company, G.D. Searle LLC (Pfizer Inc). This medication is offered in a dosage of Spironolactone 25 mg + Hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg.

    Manufacturer: G.D. Searle LLC (Pfizer Inc)

  • Bausch Cardizem

    Price range: $20.70 through $63.00

    Cardizem is an effective medication intended for the treatment of high blood pressure. It is composed of active ingredient Diltiazem. This medicine has been manufactured by the leading pharmaceutical company, Bausch Pharmaceuticals. This medicine is made available in dosages as 30 mg and 60 mg. It is composed as a conventional tablet form for oral consumption. It shall be taken exactly directed by the doctor regularly.

    Manufacturer: Bausch Pharmaceuticals

  • Bausch Vasotec

    Price range: $20.70 through $75.60

    Vasotec is a popular brand medication used in the treatment of high blood pressure. It is composed of an active ingredient Enalapril. This medicine helps people with certain heart problems. One of the top pharmaceutical companies, Bausch Pharmaceuticals has been manufacturing this medicine. It is available in various dosages such as 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg and composed as a conventional tablet form.

    Manufacturer: Bausch Pharmaceuticals

  • Wyeth Isordil

    Price range: $20.70 through $65.52

    Isordil is offered by one of the growing pharmaceutical companies, Wyeth Ltd. It is composed of the main active ingredient Isosorbide dinitrate, which belongs to a class of drugs known as nitrates. It is approved for the prevention of chest pain in people with a certain heart condition. It is available in dosages of 5 mg and 10 mg for oral consumption as a conventional tablet form.

    Manufacturer: Wyeth Ltd.

  • Astra Zeneca Lp Zestril

    Price range: $20.70 through $70.56

    Zestril is composed of active ingredient Lisinopril, which is an ACE inhibitor. It is indicated for the treatment of high blood pressure. It is manufactured by the renowned pharmaceutical company, Astra Zeneca Lp. It is available in a conventional tablet form for oral consumption in dosages like 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg.

    Manufacturer: Astra Zeneca Lp

  • Pfizer Calan

    Price range: $20.70 through $65.52

    Calan is a popular brand medicinal drug used in the treatment of high blood pressure. It has active ingredient Verapamil Hydrochloride, which is calcium channel blocking agent. This medicine is manufactured by the leading pharmaceutical company, Pfizer Pharmaceuticals. It is composed as a conventional tablet form in dosages such as 40 mg and 80 mg.

    Manufacturer: Pfizer Pharmaceuticals

  • Monarch Pharma Altace

    Price range: $20.70 through $91.80

    Altace is an effective medication used to treat hypertension. It contains an active ingredient Ramipril, which is an angiotensin-converting enzyme. Monarch Pharma, one of the renowned pharmaceutical companies, manufactures this medicine. It is available in a conventional tablet form and dosages are 1.25 mg, 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg.

    Manufacturer: Monarch Pharma

  • Apotex Corp Capoten

    Price range: $20.70 through $63.00

    Capoten is an effective medication used in the treatment of high blood pressure. It is composed as the main active component, Captopril. This medicine also treats heart failure and protects kidneys from harm due to diabetes. It is composed as a conventional tablet form and made available in dosages are 12.5 mg and 25 mg.

    Manufacturer: Apotex Corp