Quick answer
Several kinds of medicine lower blood pressure, and many people need one or two. Your doctor picks the right one for you; these basics help you understand them and ask good questions.The main types
ACE inhibitors (names ending in -pril, like lisinopril), ARBs (ending in -sartan, like losartan), calcium channel blockers (like amlodipine) and thiazide-type water pills (like hydrochlorothiazide or chlorthalidone). Beta-blockers (ending in -olol, like metoprolol) are used for some heart conditions.
Side effects to tell your doctor about
A dry cough (ACE inhibitors), ankle swelling (amlodipine), peeing more or low potassium (water pills), tiredness (beta-blockers), or dizziness when you stand up (any of them). There's usually another option, so mention it rather than stopping.
Don't stop suddenlyAsk first
Stopping some blood pressure medicines suddenly can make blood pressure jump. Even when your numbers look good, talk to your doctor before stopping or changing a dose.
Cold, flu and pain medicine
Decongestants like pseudoephedrine and phenylephrine, and pain relievers like ibuprofen and naproxen, can raise blood pressure. Ask your pharmacist for a cold medicine without a decongestant and which pain reliever suits you.
Nothing over the counter treats it
There's no non-prescription medicine for high blood pressure, and supplements aren't a replacement for prescribed medicine.
Taking them well
Take them at the same time each day, use reminders or a pill organizer, refill before you run out, and bring your list of medicines to every appointment. If you miss a dose, check the leaflet or ask your pharmacist rather than doubling up.
Weight-loss medicines
GLP-1 medicines like Wegovy or Zepbound often lower blood pressure as weight comes off. If you start feeling dizzy, your doctor may adjust your blood pressure medicine.
Pregnancy and recalls
ACE inhibitors and ARBs aren't used in pregnancy, so tell your provider if you're pregnant or planning to be. If you hear about a recall, keep taking your medicine and call your pharmacist.
Questions people also ask
Sources
- American Heart Association (Types of blood pressure medications)
- 2025 AHA/ACC High Blood Pressure Guideline
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (drug recalls).
General information, not medical advice.