Some common calcium channel blockers include amlodipine besylate, diltiazem hydrochloride, nifedipine, and verapamil. Diuretics, or water pills, help the body get rid of extra fluid and sodium . Common diuretics include furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide, and chlorthalidone. Sympathetic nerve inhibitors keep the nervous system from constricting arteries. This group includes clonidine hydrochloride, guanabenz acetate, and alpha methyldopa.
Vasodilators relax the muscles in the blood vessel walls and allow the vessels to dilate.
Common vasodilators include isosorbide dinitrate and hydralazine. Calcium channel blockers have been used for more than 20 years to treat high blood pressure. However, the findings of two recent studies have shown that people who take a calcium channel blocker have a much higher incidence of complications than people taking other medications for high blood pressure. The American Heart Association recommends discussing the risks and benefits of the medication with the healthcare provider. The choice of medication varies depending on a person's medical history.