What class of drug is commonly prescribed to manage hypertension?

ACE inhibitors are commonly prescribed to manage hypertension because they work by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which plays a crucial role in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). This system regulates blood pressure by controlling blood vessel constriction and fluid balance. By blocking this enzyme, ACE inhibitors reduce the formation of angiotensin II, a substance that narrows blood vessels and increases blood pressure. As a result, they promote vasodilation and decrease blood pressure, making them a primary choice in hypertension management.

In addition to their effectiveness in lowering blood pressure, ACE inhibitors also have other beneficial effects, such as improving heart function in patients with heart failure and offering renal protection in diabetic patients. These attributes make them not only effective but also versatile in managing multiple aspects of cardiovascular health.

While other classes of drugs for hypertension, such as beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and diuretics, are also widely used, ACE inhibitors remain a first-line treatment for many patients due to their unique mechanisms and benefits in various comorbid conditions.