Side Effects by Drug Class
The various kinds of blood pressure drugs carry different risks.
Diuretics
Sometimes referred to as water pills, diuretics are popular because they effectively help reduce arterial wall pressure by helping the kidneys excrete excess salt (sodium) and water.
Examples include these forms:
- chlorthalidone (HemiClor, Hygroton)
- chlorothiazide
- hydrochlorothiazide (Esidrix)
- indapamide (Lozol)
- metolazone (such as Mykrox)
“If a patient takes a diuretic for high blood pressure control, there’s a risk for triggering dehydration,” Dr. Lawrence says. Dehydration can increase the risk for issues ranging from minor headache to heat stroke. Diuretics can also cause excessive urination.
Beta-Blockers
These drugs lower blood pressure by blocking the effects of epinephrine, also known as adrenaline. This reduces your heart rate and blood output.
Side effects of beta-blockers might include the following:
- Insomnia
- Depression
- Cold hands and feet
- Erectile dysfunction
Taking too much of a beta-blocker can result in poisoning.
Examples include the following drugs:
- acebutolol
- atenolol (Tenormin)
- metoprolol (Lopressor)
- bisoprolol (Zebeta)
ACE Inhibitors
ACE inhibitors lower blood pressure by blocking a chemical that causes arterial narrowing. But these drugs can give rise to the following side effects:
- Chronic cough
- A skin rash
- Loss of taste
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Kidney damage
In addition, taking excessive amounts of an ACE inhibitor can lead to a dangerous buildup of potassium.
Examples of ACE inhibitors include the following:
- benazepril hydrochloride (Lotensin)
- captopril (Capoten)
- enalapril maleate (Vasotec)
- fosinopril sodium (Monopril)
Calcium Channel Blockers
This type of blood pressure medication helps relax the arteries by blocking calcium from clogging the heart and its pathways. By keeping calcium from entering the smooth muscle cells of the heart and arteries, your heart rate reduces and blood pressure comes down. However, these drugs can cause leg swelling, in which case you should consult your doctor.
Examples of calcium channel blockers include the following:
- amlodipine besylate (Norvasc)
- diltiazem hydrochloride (Cardizem CD, Cardizem SR)
- felodipine (Plendil)
- isradipine (DynaCirc)
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