Over The Counter Medicine For High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure or hypertension is a common health condition that affects millions of Americans. It occurs when the blood pressure in your arteries is consistently high, putting a strain on your heart and blood vessels. If left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to serious health problems such as stroke, heart attack, and kidney disease.
If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, your doctor may prescribe medication to help lower your blood pressure. However, there are also over-the-counter (OTC) medications that can be used to help manage high blood pressure. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common OTC medications for high blood pressure.
1. Aspirin
Aspirin is a common OTC medication that can help lower high blood pressure. It works by inhibiting the production of substances in the body that cause inflammation and blood clotting. Aspirin is also commonly used to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in people with high blood pressure.
However, it is important to note that aspirin should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Aspirin can have side effects such as stomach bleeding and should not be used by people who are allergic to aspirin.
2. Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is another OTC medication that can help lower high blood pressure. It is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by reducing inflammation in the body. Ibuprofen is commonly used to manage pain and reduce fever.
However, like aspirin, ibuprofen should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Ibuprofen can have side effects such as stomach bleeding and should not be used by people who are allergic to NSAIDs.
3. Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen is another OTC medication that can help manage high blood pressure. It is a pain reliever and fever reducer that works by blocking the production of certain chemicals in the body that cause pain and fever. Acetaminophen is commonly used to manage mild to moderate pain and reduce fever.
However, it is important to note that acetaminophen should be used with caution in people with liver disease or a history of alcohol abuse. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if taken in large doses or combined with alcohol.
4. Calcium Channel Blockers
Calcium channel blockers are a type of medication that can be used to help manage high blood pressure. They work by relaxing the blood vessels and reducing the workload on the heart. Calcium channel blockers are commonly used to treat high blood pressure, angina, and arrhythmias.
However, calcium channel blockers should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. They can have side effects such as dizziness, headache, and flushing.
5. Alpha Blockers
Alpha blockers are another type of medication that can be used to help manage high blood pressure. They work by blocking the effects of certain hormones that can cause blood vessels to narrow. Alpha blockers are commonly used to treat high blood pressure, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), and Raynaud's disease.
However, alpha blockers should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. They can have side effects such as dizziness, headache, and fatigue.
Conclusion
If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, it is important to work with your healthcare professional to develop a treatment plan that is right for you. While there are OTC medications that can help manage high blood pressure, they should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Remember to always read the label and follow the dosing instructions for any medication, whether it is prescription or OTC. And if you experience any side effects or have any concerns about your medication, be sure to talk to your healthcare professional.