Final answer:
Alpha-1 blockers are medications used to treat hypertension by blocking the alpha-1 adrenergic receptors in blood vessels and causing vasodilation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Alpha-1 blockers are a class of medications used to treat hypertension, or high blood pressure. They work by blocking the alpha-1 adrenergic receptors in blood vessels, which causes vasodilation and reduces the resistance to blood flow, leading to a decrease in blood pressure. By relaxing the smooth muscles in the walls of blood vessels, these medications allow blood to flow more easily, reducing the strain on the heart.
Examples of alpha-1 blockers include:
- Doxazosin
- Prazosin
- Tamsulosin