What type of medication is typically used to treat hypertension?

Antihypertensives are the class of medications specifically designed to manage high blood pressure, or hypertension. These medications work through various mechanisms to help lower blood pressure and prevent complications associated with hypertension, such as heart attack and stroke. Antihypertensives may include different types of drugs, such as diuretics, beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers, each functioning in distinct ways to promote overall cardiovascular health.

The other types of medications listed serve different purposes: antibiotics are used to treat infections; analgesics are pain relievers; and antidepressants are prescribed for managing depression and anxiety disorders. Each class of medication targets specific health issues, highlighting the importance of using the appropriate type for the condition being treated.