Blood pressure medications explained
There are several families of blood pressure medicines, and many people take more than one. Understanding the basics helps you take them well and know what to watch for.
The main types
- ACE inhibitors (names ending -pril, like lisinopril) — relax vessels; a dry cough is a known side effect.
- ARBs (ending -sartan, like losartan) — similar to ACE inhibitors, usually without the cough.
- Calcium channel blockers (ending -dipine, like amlodipine) — relax vessels; may cause ankle swelling.
- Diuretics ("water pills") — remove extra fluid and salt; best taken in the morning.
- Beta blockers (ending -olol, like metoprolol) — slow the heart; don't stop suddenly.
What to watch for
- Dizziness when standing (especially when starting or combining).
- ACE/ARB plus potassium supplements or salt substitutes can raise potassium.
- NSAIDs (ibuprofen) can blunt blood pressure medicines and stress the kidneys.
Keep taking them: High blood pressure is usually silent, so don't stop when readings look good — that's the medicine working. Track home readings and share them at visits.
Check your own medicines free
See how your prescriptions, supplements, and food may interact — organized by the part of the body they affect.
Open the medication tool →Important: This article is educational and not medical advice. It does not replace your pharmacist or prescriber. Always confirm decisions about your medicines with a qualified professional, and call your local emergency number for emergencies. In the U.S., Poison Control is 1-800-222-1222.