BP's slightly higher than this is called mild hypertension and can sometimes be reduced by weight loss, cessation of smoking, and decreased salt intake. However, medications may sometimes be necessary. There are six classes of medications to treat hypertension. These block a part of the nervous system that increases blood pressure. Vasodilators such as hydralazine and minoxidil relax blood vessels to lower blood pressure.
ACE inhibitors are captopril, enalapril, lisinopril and benazepril.
Angiotensin receptor antagonists such as losartan and valsartan are similar to ACE inhibitors and block the effects of angiotensin instead of preventing its production. Calcium channel blockers such as diltiazem, verapamil, and nifedipine dilate blood vessels by blocking calcium flow into cells which is needed to constrict blood vessels. It also causes lung cancer, strokes and many other illnesses. Smoking may increase atherosclerosis as well. The nicotine in cigarettes causes constriction in blood vessels causing increase blood pressure and causing the heart to work harder.