Alpha-2 Agonists
Central alpha agonists lower blood pressure by stimulating alpha-receptors in the brain which open peripheral arteries easing blood flow. Central alpha agonists, such as clonidine, are usually prescribed when all other anti-hypertensive medications have failed. For treating hypertension, these drugs are usually administered in combination with a diuretic.
- Clonidine
- Guanabenz
- Methyldopa
- Moxonidine
Adverse effects of this class of drugs include sedation, drying of the nasal mucosa and rebound hypertension.
Some adrenergic neuron blockers are used for the most resistant forms of hypertension:
- Guanethidine
- Reserpine
Read more about this topic: Antihypertensive Drug