Medication for hypertension management

Abstract

Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, heart failure, vascular dementia and chronic kidney disease, and the management of hypertension combines both lifestyle and pharmacological interventions. Guidelines are available nationally and internationally to support these approaches to managing blood pressure and reducing cardiovascular risk. This article discusses the diagnosis and management of hypertension, along with the role of medication to lower blood pressure. Particular consideration is given to the place for different drug treatments based on their mode of action, specific indications and potential side effects. By the end of this article, readers should be able to review how different types of hypertension are diagnosed; compare national and international guidelines; consider the different types of medication most commonly used in hypertension; and evaluate the mode of action and how this influences indication for use and possible side effects.