Blood Pressure Medicines Charleston SC - Adding a Second One | Hope Integrative Medicine
October 30, 2026 · 1:13
The standard next steps when lisinopril, losartan or amlodipine is not enough, where beta blockers fit, and what to check when pressure stays high on three medicines.
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Transcript
Adding a second blood pressure medicine to lisinopril or amlodipine. Here are three things to know. Many people need more than one medicine to reach their blood pressure goal, and that is normal. Two medicines at moderate doses usually work better, with fewer side effects, than one medicine pushed to its maximum. Many people take two in a single combination pill. If lisinopril or losartan is not enough, adding amlodipine or a thiazide diuretic is a standard next step. If amlodipine is not enough, adding lisinopril, losartan or a thiazide is common. One rule: an ACE inhibitor such as lisinopril and an ARB such as losartan should not be taken together. Blood pressure that stays high on three medicines, including a diuretic, is called resistant hypertension. Before adding more, your care team checks that home readings are accurate, that doses are taken as planned, and for hidden causes such as sleep apnea, high sodium intake, alcohol or pain relievers like ibuprofen. Read the full article at hopeintegrativemed.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Two medicines at moderate doses usually work better, with fewer side effects, than one medicine pushed to its maximum. Many people take two in a single combination pill.
Adding amlodipine or a thiazide-type diuretic is a standard next step. If amlodipine is the first medicine, adding lisinopril, losartan or a thiazide is common.
If it is still that high and you have chest pain, shortness of breath, back pain, numbness, weakness, a change in vision or difficulty speaking, call 911. Without those symptoms, contact your healthcare provider right away. If you are ever worried, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
