What Are the Effects of Wrong High Blood Pressure Medication?

There a dozens of types of high blood pressure medication, also called anti-hypertensives. Each comes with its own set of benefits and side effects. The biggest potential problem with taking the wrong blood pressure medication is that it will not lower your readings to healthy levels. In this case you need to work with your doctor to find the right treatment to reach your blood pressure goals.

Function

• The function of high blood pressure medication is to bring readings to a healthy level. Patients are prescribed different types of medication, depending on the stage of the hypertension.

Effects

• The medication you take should lower your blood pressure to a target set by your doctor. If it does not, you may need to take different medication.

Combinations

• In some cases, rather than changing medication because it is not having the desired effect, a doctor will consider using an additional medicine. This is often the case with severe, stage-two hypertension.

Other Effects

• Blood pressure medication can cause side effects, including headache, nausea, weight gain, flu-like symptoms and skin rash. If you have any of these symptoms and they are persistent, consult with your doctor about your medication.

Warning

• Don't make assumptions about your blood pressure medication's effects. You should never change or discontinue medications without consulting your doctor.