Word parts
What it means
Any drug used to treat hypertensionhy-per-TEN-shunBlood pressure that stays higher than normal, at or above 130/80 mm Hg by current US guidelines.hyper- above, more than normaltension pressureFull entry . Main groups are ACE inhibitors (names ending in "-pril", such as lisinoprilly-SIN-oh-prilAn ACE inhibitor drug that lowers blood pressure and protects the heart and kidneys.Full entry ), angiotensin receptor blockers (ending in "-sartan", such as losartanloh-SAR-tanAn angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that lowers blood pressure and protects the kidneys.Full entry ), calcium channel blockers (such as amlodipine), thiazide diureticdy-yoo-RET-ikA drug that makes the kidneys pass more water and salt out of the body as urine.dia- throughur/o urine-etic relating toFull entry and beta blockerBAY-tuh BLOK-erA drug that blocks the effects of adrenaline on beta receptors, slowing the heart rate and lowering blood pressure.Full entry . Many clients need more than one.
For the nurse
Check blood pressure before giving and hold per parameters. Teach the client to rise slowly (dizziness on standing is common), to take it even when feeling well, and not to stop suddenly. Lifestyle changes such as less salt, exercise and weight loss help too.
At a glance
| Drug class | antihypertensive |
|---|---|
| Spanish | antihipertensivo |
| Also written | antihypertensives |
Related terms
hypertension
Blood pressure that stays higher than normal, at or above 130/80 mm Hg by current US guidelines.
diuretic
A drug that makes the kidneys pass more water and salt out of the body as urine.
beta blocker
A drug that blocks the effects of adrenaline on beta receptors, slowing the heart rate and lowering blood pressure.
lisinopril
An ACE inhibitor drug that lowers blood pressure and protects the heart and kidneys.
losartan
An angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that lowers blood pressure and protects the kidneys.