Final answer:
First-line medications for essential hypertension include thiazide-diuretics, calcium channel blockers, ACE inhibitors, and ARBs, often requiring combination therapy to achieve target blood pressure levels. Medication choice and treatment strategy may vary based on individual needs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first-line medications for the treatment of essential hypertension in the general population include thiazide-diuretics, calcium channel blockers, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors), and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). These medications can be used alone or in combination, depending on the individual's health status and how well their blood pressure is controlled. ACE inhibitors and ARBs should not be used together, as this combination is not recommended. It is common for patients to need more than one medication to effectively manage their hypertension.
Examples of ACE inhibitors include Benazepril (Lotensin), Captopril (Capoten), Enalapril (Vasotec), and Lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril). ARBs have different names, such as Candesartan (Atacand) and Irbesartan (Avapro). These medications help reduce blood pressure by different mechanisms, like preventing angiotensin II from raising blood pressure, or by acting as vasodilators.
It's important to note that treating hypertension effectively is crucial in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including stroke. Physicians often start with a step-care approach, adjusting treatment as needed to achieve target blood pressure levels.