Walgreens brand with large arm cuff. My BP has been "borderline" for years and my exercise routine and eating habits have kept it at borderline...I don't smoke or drink so that is not an issue.

Due to a recent job loss, I gradually drifted into depression with anxiety...first onset at age 51. I'm taking 10mg Paxil with good results- much more focused and brighter with no recent anxiety events. Problem is, the Paxil has definitely raised my BP to a level that is going to require BP meds. Doc. says I need to stay on the SSRI for about a year and then I can wean off and have a 50/50 shot at no relapse.

With my BP readings now ranging 150-165 over 85-95 I'm going to have to do something, and quick too. Questions for those vetrans out there who have tried many different BP meds...what meds would you start with that have the least amount of side effects? I understand that the old fashioned diuretics are often prescribed first and then mixed with newer drug types.

Your input would be greatly appreciated.

Eric

Eric-
You're right that diuretics have been the mainstay of treatment for hypertension, and are often, (if tolerated well and giving good BP control), the only drug one might need. However, they are not without side effects for many people, mainly serious fluid and electrolyte imbalance, with particular problems regarding potassium loss.

I'm just going to cut to the chase here...the class of anti-hypertensives that have virtually NO side effects are the angiotensin 2 receptor blockers, (ARBs). BRAND names include Cozaar, Benicar, Diovan, Atacand, Avapro, Micardis, Teveten et al. (All the ARBs' generic versions end with the suffix "sartan", e.g. Diovan is generic valsartan).
Given that your #s are not sky high, I would discuss with your doctor the possibility of going with one of these.

I had similar #s to yours and at first was put on diuretics but my potassium plunged to rock bottom even though this particular diuretic had a potassium-sparing component already built into it AND I also took a separate potassium supplement. Felt lousy. Doc pulled me off it after one month.
Next came a beta blocker...again, very good at BP control but felt like a zombie with fatigue and depression (two of the biggest side effects of this class of drug). Given you suffer from a "mixed" mood disorder, this may not be the way to go for you to go, although if you JUST had anxiety, betas often help it!

Tried ACE inhibitors, and while these are great at reducing BP, I developed what is known as The Cough..a very common side effect.

I'm sure you'll get some input from others here on the board.
I myself ended up on Diovan...have great BP control and no side effects whatsoever.

Good luck!

zuzu xxx

I'm going to carry your response to the Doc next week and discuss what he thinks I should start with. These medical boards are helpful to folks who are dealing with conditions for the first time.

Eric

I've taken 25mg of a diuretic for the past week with wonderful results...BP down to around 110-115 over 80-84 with only a morning dose of diruretic. So far, I'm not experiencing any worrysome side effects. I'm peeing a little more during the day, but that's no problem.

I'm also eating a more salt reduced diet with low glucose index carbohydrates as the base. Anyone who is not familiar with The Glucose Revolution series of books should read the newest release and try to introduce its findings into your diet. Contrary to the popular carb. restriction diets, eating the RIGHT carbs. in larger portions, is a much better way to go for a lifetime eating plan.

Redfish-
Glad to hear diuretic is working! YAY!
Will investigate Glucose Revolution info. Thanks for the tip.

zuzu xx

Redfish,

Unless you are taking a "potassium-sparing" diuretic like Dyazide, be careful to keep your potassium up. With HCTZ, eat the equivalent of a banana AND a glass of orange juice every day.
Be very careful about salt restriction and diuretics...hyponatremia can be VERY serious- far more dangerous than hypokalemia..
With a low dose like 25 mg. HCTZ, you shouldn't run into much trouble.