High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is a common health problem that affects many people around the world.
If left untreated, it can lead to serious health issues like heart attacks, strokes, and kidney problems.
There are many types of medications used to control blood pressure, and a new study from Geisinger Medical Center has compared two of the most common types: ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs).
Both of these medications help lower blood pressure, but they work in different ways. ACE inhibitors block an enzyme that helps make a chemical called angiotensin, which causes blood vessels to narrow. By reducing angiotensin, blood vessels stay wider, making it easier for blood to flow and lowering blood pressure.
ARBs work differently. Instead of stopping the production of angiotensin, they block the places in the body where angiotensin usually attaches. This also helps keep blood vessels relaxed and reduces blood pressure.
The study looked at data from about 3 million people who were taking blood pressure medicine for the first time. These patients were from the United States, Germany, and South Korea.
The results showed that both ACE inhibitors and ARBs were equally good at lowering blood pressure. But there was an important difference—people taking ARBs had fewer side effects. This suggests that ARBs might be a better first choice for people just starting medication.
However, the researchers pointed out that these findings don’t apply to people who are already taking ACE inhibitors or those who are on several blood pressure medications. The study focused only on people who were beginning treatment.
Doctors usually choose from several types of medications to treat high blood pressure, including ACE inhibitors, ARBs, thiazide diuretics, and calcium channel blockers. Along with medications, doctors also recommend lifestyle changes like eating healthy foods, exercising more, and reducing stress.
This study provides helpful information for both doctors and patients. Knowing that ARBs may cause fewer side effects can help people feel more comfortable when starting treatment. It also reminds us that managing high blood pressure is not the same for everyone. The best treatment plan depends on each person’s health needs.
The research was led by RuiJun Chen and was published in the journal Hypertension. It shows how important it is to keep learning about the medications we use and to work closely with healthcare providers to find the best options.
If you care about blood pressure, please read studies about This alcohol treatment could help treat high blood pressure and How blood pressure changes with age.
For more about blood pressure, please read studies about Intensive blood pressure treatment for older adults may harm heart and kidneys and What you should know about high blood pressure medications.
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