Each type of drug lowers blood pressure in a unique way. Persons with high blood pressure respond differently to medications. These individual responses may be based on other diseases they have, their age, family history or genetics. Blood pressure medicines may be effective alone, or they may be used in combination with other drugs. Persons on diuretics should also follow a low salt diet.
Beta blockers are another widely prescribed class of drug used to treat high blood pressure.
Examples include propranolol, atenolol, and metoprolol. Some beta blockers act more specifically than others and may be better for persons with asthma or diabetes. Beta blockers work by slowing the heart. Calcium channel blockers are another popular drug class. Numerous drugs belong to this class.