Guidelines for Hypertension Medication

Hypertension is a dangerous disease that affects millions of Americans. The Centers for Disease Control states that in 2006 40.5 million visits to doctors resulted in a diagnosis of hypertension. The CDC also says that in 2006 more than 23,000 Americans died from hypertension.

The Care Management Institute classifies hypertension as blood pressure at or over 140/90 mm Hg. If your blood pressure is in the zone for borderline hypertension, your doctor will start by prescribing some simple lifestyle changes. If it's higher, then medication will be prescribed.

Stage 1 Hypertension

• If your systolic blood pressure (the top number) is between 140 and 159 or your diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) is between 90 and 99, then you have stage 1 hypertension. The latest medication guidelines for hypertension from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommend that doctors start medication if Stage 1 hypertension lasts longer than two months. The recommendations apply only for uncomplicated hypertension that hasn't caused organ failure or other serious problems.

Stage 2 Hypertension

• If your systolic blood pressure is over 160 or your diastolic is over 100, then you have stage 2 hypertension. The newest recommendations state that medication should begin if your blood pressure falls between 160 and 179 systolic or 100 and 109 diastolic and if it lasts more than a month. However if your blood pressure is over 180 systolic or 110 diastolic, then medication should start immediately.

Hypertension Medications

• The first step for treatment of hypertension is usually a prescription for diuretics. This medication, known as a water pill, will increase the number of times you urinate and eliminate any extra salt in your system, thereby lowering your blood pressure. You can also help the process by cutting back on salt in your diet.

  Your doctor may also prescribe a second medication called an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. This medication works to dilate your blood vessels, lowering your blood pressure in the process.

  If two medications don't control your high blood pressure, your doctor will then prescribe a beta blocker to go with the first two medications. Beta blockers reduce your heart rate and dilate your blood vessels. Regular cardio workouts such as walking will also reduce your heart rate in the long run.

  If three medications aren't enough to keep your high blood pressure under control, then a fourth medication called a calcium channel blocker should be added. Calcium channel blockers relax the heart muscles and lower the heart rate, bringing the blood pressure down.

Lifestyle Changes

• No matter how many medications your doctor prescribes for your hypertension, you can always benefit from diet and exercise. Start by adjusting your diet. Limit yourself to low-salt and low-fat foods. Start a weight loss regime. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise three times a week. Cutting alcohol out of your diet will also lower your blood pressure.