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Drugs for Treatment of Systolic Hypertension

Isolated systolic hypertension (ISH) is a condition in which the top number of a person’s blood pressure reading is high, while the bottom number--diastolic pressure--is normal. Systolic blood pressure is the measurement of arterial pressure as the heart pumps; diastolic pressure is the arterial pressure as the heart rests between beats. In healthy individuals, the systolic blood pressure should be 140 mm/Hg (millimeters of mercury) or below, while the diastolic pressure is optimally at or below 90 mm/Hg.

  1. ACE Inhibitors

    • ACE Inhibitors (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitors) such as Altace (ramipril) and Vasotec (enalapril) inhibit the action of an enzyme called ACE, suppressing the production of angiotensin II, a chemical that tightens muscle tissue around blood vessels. When those muscles relax, blood vessels dilate and this lowers blood pressure. Clinical studies have shown ACE inhibitors to be effective in reducing systolic hypertension.

    Beta-Blockers

    • Beta-blockers such as Inderal (propranolol) and Tenormin (atenolol) affect the central nervous system. These drugs lower blood pressure by blocking beta-adrenergic receptors, which control functions of the circulatory system. Beta-blockers regulate the heartbeat, decrease cardiac output and dilate blood vessels.

    Calcium channel blockers

    • Calcium channel blockers such as Norvasc (amlodipine besylate) and Procardia (nifedipine) are drugs that prevent calcium from entering cardiovascular muscle cells. This decreases the contraction of the heart and dilates blood vessels. These drugs can be used to treat systolic hypertension effectively.

    Diuretics

    • Diuretics such as Lasix (furosemide) and Diuril (chlorothiazide) can reduce systolic blood pressure by eliminating excess fluids.

    Tip

    • For treatment of systolic hypertension, beta-blockers are best prescribed in combination with diuretics or other drugs.

    Warning

    • Over-medication is a risk as your doctor finds the correct dose for your therapy. Diastolic blood pressure can drop significantly in efforts to treat systolic hypertension. Call for help immediately if you experience faintness, dizziness, or other symptoms of low blood pressure.

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