The most commonly prescribed medications used to treat hypertension are diuretics, beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), calcium channel blockers, and alpha blockers. Each of these medications work in a unique way to lower blood pressure.

Diuretics, commonly referred to as “water pills,” work by increasing the amount of urine that the body produces. This causes the body to get rid of excess salt and water, thereby reducing the amount of fluid in the blood vessels and lowering blood pressure.

Beta blockers work by blocking the effects of adrenaline on the heart, which reduces the heart rate and the force of its contractions. This, in turn, reduces the amount of blood that is pumped through the blood vessels, resulting in a lower blood pressure.

ACE inhibitors and ARBs both work by relaxing the blood vessels, which allows blood to flow more easily. This, in turn, reduces the amount of pressure that the blood places on the walls of the blood vessels, resulting in a lower blood pressure.

Calcium channel blockers work by preventing calcium from entering the muscle cells of the heart and blood vessels. This, in turn, causes the blood vessels to relax and widen, reducing the amount of pressure that the blood places on their walls.

Alpha blockers work by blocking the effects of certain hormones that cause the blood vessels to narrow. This, in turn, results in the blood vessels relaxing and widening, allowing blood to flow more easily and reducing blood pressure.

The top medications for lowering blood pressure from each class include:
1. Amlodipine (Calcium channel blocker)
2. Ramipril (ACE inhibitor)
3. Indapamide (Diuretic)

It is important for individuals with hypertension to work closely with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment, including medication, lifestyle changes, and other interventions that may be appropriate for their unique situation. Additionally, it is important to take medications exactly as prescribed and to follow up with healthcare providers on a regular basis to monitor blood pressure and adjust treatment as needed.