Final answer:
The most effective classification of antihypertensive drugs for treating hypertension in African American clients and the elderly is the use of ACE inhibitors and ARBs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most effective classification of antihypertensive drugs for treating hypertension in African American clients and the elderly is the use of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs).
ACE inhibitors, such as Candesartan (Atacand) and Irbesartan (Avapro), work by blocking the production of angiotensin II, a hormone that increases blood pressure. ARBs, such as Eprosartan (Teveten), work by blocking the action of angiotensin II at its receptor sites, resulting in a decrease in blood pressure.
These medications are particularly effective in African American clients and the elderly due to the higher prevalence of angiotensin II-related hypertension in these populations.