Zhang Wei (pseudonym) was diagnosed with high blood pressure during the unit's annual physical examination, with a value as high as 160/100. On the advice of his doctor, he started taking blood pressure medication. After a month, his blood pressure stabilized at normal levels, but he soon discovered that the drug had a serious negative impact on his sexual function. The problem began to affect his married life with his wife, Li Fang (not her real name), who even threatened to file for divorce.
Zhang Wei was so anxious that he decided to stop taking the medicine privately, but half a year later, when he was driving to work one morning, he suddenly felt uncontrollable with his left hand. I drove urgently to the hospital and was diagnosed with a cerebral infarction. Over the next month, Zhang Wei experienced pain from a crooked mouth and eyes and a paralysis of the left side of his body.
After recovering, although he can barely walk, Zhang Wei still has concerns about his previous medications. At the follow-up visit, Zhang Wei sincerely put forward his troubles and requests to the doctor: "After I took the medicine, the X function is not working, can I change the medicine?" ”
【Doctor's Reply】Stopping the drug abruptly can lead to serious consequences, which is a very dangerous behavior. Dressing can be changed for the patient's condition on an individual basis, but the patient's blood pressure and overall health need to be monitored. In addition, regarding the side effects of the drug, patients can seek the advice of other experts for possible solutions.
One of the common questions about questions and needs about blood pressure medications is when patients are concerned that the blood pressure medication they are taking may affect a particular function and then asks if they can change the medication. In this article, I will discuss in detail the different types of antihypertensive drugs and how they may affect different functions, as well as in what cases should you consider changing medications.
Types of antihypertensive medications
Diuretics: These medications reduce blood volume by causing the body to excrete excess salt and water, which lowers blood pressure. Common diuretics include diuretic one and hydrochlorothiazide.
Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibitors (RAAS inhibitors): This class of drugs includes ACE inhibitors (e.g., benazepril), ARBs (e.g., locatercept), and aldosterone antagonists (e.g., spironolactone). They lower blood pressure by interfering with the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, while also having a protective effect on the heart and blood vessels.
Calcium channel blockers: These drugs lower blood pressure by reducing the heart's contractility and vascular tension by blocking calcium from entering the heart and vascular smooth muscle cells. Common calcium channel antagonists include nifedipine and diltiazole.
Fibrate adrenergic receptor antagonists (Beta-blockers): These drugs lower blood pressure by slowing the heartbeat and reducing the contractility of the heart. Common fibrate adrenergic antagonists include metoprolol and amorolol.
Central-acting drugs: These drugs reduce the contractility of the heart and lower blood pressure by affecting neurotransmitters in the brain. Common central-acting drugs include methyldopa and clonaldine.
The effects of different antihypertensive drugs on different functions
Sexual function: Many patients worry that blood pressure medications will affect their sexual function. In fact, some drugs, especially fibrate adrenergic receptor antagonists and central-acting drugs, may cause sexual dysfunction. If a patient experiences problems with sexual function after taking these medications, they should discuss possible alternatives with their doctor. Sometimes, a different type of antihypertensive medication, such as ACE inhibitors or ARBs, can alleviate the problem.
Exercise capacity: Certain antihypertensive medications can affect a person's ability to exercise by causing fatigue and fatigue. This can be a problem for those who are actively engaged in physical activity or exercise. In such cases, doctors may consider changing medications and choosing a type that is less likely to cause fatigue, such as a calcium channel antagonist.
Cognitive function: Central-acting drugs may have some effect on cognitive function, especially in older patients. If a person experiences memory loss or cognitive problems after taking these medications, the doctor should reevaluate the medication and may consider alternative medications.
Mood and mental health: Fibrate adrenergic receptor antagonists may cause depressive symptoms, especially in some patients. If a patient is experiencing emotional problems, the doctor should work with them to find possible solutions, including changing the type of medication.
Metabolism and weight: Some antihypertensive medications can cause weight gain and metabolic problems, such as insulin resistance. If a person has these problems after taking these medications, the doctor may consider adjusting the treatment regimen, including changing medications.
Under what circumstances should a change of medication be considered
It is important to emphasize that changing antihypertensive medications is not a rash decision and should be evaluated by the physician on a case-by-case basis. The doctor will consider factors such as the patient's age, gender, pre-existing health conditions, family medical history, and other medications being taken. Doctors also monitor the patient's blood pressure and other physiological indicators to ensure that the new medication is effective in lowering blood pressure without causing unwanted side effects.
Changing medications may also need to be done gradually, rather than abruptly stopping one medication and starting another immediately. This helps to alleviate possible reactions or exacerbations in the patient. Therefore, patients should always change their medication under the supervision of a doctor.
Patients should not change or stop the medication on their own, but should do so under the guidance of a doctor. Only a doctor can prescribe the most appropriate treatment plan based on the patient's specific situation and needs. If patients have any concerns or concerns about medications, they should always communicate with their doctor to ensure that their treatment options are the best for them. Antihypertensive medications should only be changed or adjusted on the advice of a doctor. Listening to your doctor's advice is an important step in ensuring your cardiovascular health.