ANTIHYPERTENSIVE DRUGS

Definition: Antihypertensive drugs are the agents used in treatment of hypertension.

Classification (According to site of action):

1. Centrally acting Drugs: Clonidine, Methyl Dopa
2. Drugs acting on autonomic ganglia: Hexamethonium
3. Drugs acting on post ganglionic sympathetic nerve endings a) Adrenergic neuron blockers; Guanethidine b) Catecholamine depletors: Reserpine
4. Drugs acting on adrenergic receptors: a) Alpha adrenergic blockers: Phentolamine b) Beta adrenergic blockers: Propranolol c) Vasodilators: Hydralazine d) Drugs acting reflexly by stimulating baroreceptors: Veratrum
5. Oral Diuretics: Thiazides, Frusemide, spironolactone, amilorideetc
6. Calcium Channel Blockers: Nifedipine, Amlodipine, Felodipine
7. Drugs acting on rennin angiotensin system:
8. ACE inhibitors: Enalapril, Ramipril

Angiotensin Receptor Blockers: Losartan, Telmisartan 10.Miscellaneous: MAO inhibitors (Pargyline)