Pharmacy PEBC Practice Exam 2025 - Free Pharmacy Exam Practice Questions and Study Guide

Antihypertensives are medications specifically designed to lower high blood pressure. All of the drug classes mentioned play a significant role in managing hypertension.

Calcium channel blockers work by relaxing the blood vessels, which decreases the heart’s workload and helps lower blood pressure. They prevent calcium from entering the cells of the heart and blood vessel walls, leading to vasodilation and improved blood flow.

Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) block the action of a hormone that narrows blood vessels. By inhibiting the effects of angiotensin II, these medications help widen blood vessels and lower blood pressure.

Diuretics, often referred to as "water pills," help the body eliminate excess sodium and water through urine. This reduction in fluid volume leads to lower blood pressure, as there is less blood circulating in the arteries.

Since each of these classes individually contributes to the management of hypertension in different ways, their collective inclusion demonstrates the comprehensive range of options available to treat the condition effectively.