Mohammad Waqas¹, Rasha konane Afthab¹, Abdulhamid kassab¹, Maen Bakour¹
Hypertension, characterized by elevated blood pressure levels, is a pervasive cardiovascular condition with profound health implications, including an increased risk of stroke. The use of anti-hypertensive medications is a common strategy to manage hypertension and reduce stroke risk.
This comprehensive review examines the mechanisms and impact of anti-hypertensive medications on stroke prevention. A systematic analysis of existing literature from reputable medical databases and scientific journals was conducted, encompassing clinical studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, guidelines, and epidemiological studies. Criteria for inclusion focused on English-language publications elucidating mechanisms of antihypertensive medications in stroke prevention, effects on blood pressure, endothelial function, and stroke incidence. Data were extracted systematically.
Anti-hypertensive drugs operate through diverse mechanisms, including blood pressure modulation, enhancement of endothelial function, and reduction of target organ impairment. These medications have demonstrated efficacy in reducing stroke risk, with variations observed among drug classes. Ramipril, among ACE inhibitors, and losartan, candesartan, and valsartan, among ARBs, have shown promise in stroke reduction. Calcium channel blockers, including nitrendipine, nifedipine, and amlodipine, exhibit positive effects, especially in well-controlled hypertension. Even diuretics, less commonly prescribed, have shown effectiveness in stroke prevention, with chlorthalidone being notable.
Anti-hypertensive medications are pivotal in reducing stroke risk in individuals with hypertension. Tailored treatment strategies considering individual patient characteristics and preferences are essential. While these medications significantly contribute to stroke prevention, further research is needed to understand their precise mechanisms and optimize treatment guidelines for hypertension and stroke prevention.
