Nervous system inhibitors relax the blood vessels by controlling nerve impulses. This causes the blood vessels to become wider and the blood pressure to go down.

 

Examples of this type of high blood pressure medication include:

 

Vasodilators directly dilate (widen) blood vessels by relaxing the muscle in the vessel walls. This causes blood pressure to go down.

 

Common hypertension medications in this category include:

 

Final Thoughts on Medications for High Blood Pressure

Treating high blood pressure can require considerable time and patience -- both for you and your doctor. It can be frustrating to take pills and possibly have side effects, especially if you felt fine before taking medication. Remember that your blood pressure is only lowered while you are taking these medications. That's why high blood pressure medication can't be stopped in most cases, even after blood pressure is lowered. Some treatment must be continued over a lifetime to maintain good results.

 

Try not to get discouraged if you must be treated indefinitely. Some people can reduce their drug dosages after achieving normal blood pressure and maintaining it for a year or more. But keep in mind that treatment usually can't be stopped entirely. Coping with the inconvenience of taking medicines for high blood pressure is still much better than suffering a stroke or heart attack. Most people who are treated successfully usually live a long and healthy life.