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This page/column contains information which may be of interest to consumers. The information is based on articles which appear in Australian Prescriber. As Australian Prescriber is written for health professionals, you should discuss any issues raised by this page/column with your doctor or pharmacist. They will be able to give a more detailed answer to your questions by reading the main article.

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Australian Prescriber Vol. 33 No. 4 2010

High blood pressure

High blood pressure increases the risk of heart disease, kidney disease and having a stroke. While high blood pressure can be reduced by a healthy lifestyle, medicines are sometimes needed.

There are several types of medicines for treating high blood pressure. Each type of medicine is effective at reducing blood pressure. The choice of medicine is influenced by factors such as the patient's other conditions, cost and convenience. It is important to take the medicines regularly.

Sometimes the patient's blood pressure does not fall far enough with treatment. One of the other types of medicine can then be added. Often people need more than one medicine to keep their blood pressure under control.