Bendroflumethiazide tablets are used to treat hypertension. Bendroflumethiazide is a thiazide diuretic that reduces blood pressure. A number of different bendroflumethiazide tablets are available, some containing only bendroflumethiazide, and others containing a combination of bendroflumethiazide and another antihypertensive, such as a beta-blocker.
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, may be caused by a number of different mechanisms in the body, including the fine balance between the amount of salt and water in the body. An increased volume of fluid in the body may increase blood pressure. Bendroflumethiazide tablets help to decrease this burden by increasing the output of fluid. This is medically termed diuresis, and the class of drugs is called diuretics. Because of their ability to remove fluid from the body, bendroflumethiazide tablets are often referred to as "water tablets."
Diuretics may be the first choice of drug used to treat hypertension after or along with lifestyle changes such as increased exercise, weight loss, decreased salt intake and cholesterol control. Some patients may need a different class of antihypertensive drug to control their hypertension, depending on the underlying cause. Often, a combination of a diuretic such as bendroflumethiazide tablets with a second class of drug is needed.
Combination tablets, such as bendroflumethiazide with a beta-blocker like nadolol, are available. This makes taking the tablet simpler; just one tablet needs to be swallowed instead of two. Beta-blockers work to lower blood pressure by a different mechanism. They block the action of epinephrine and norepinephrine, thus lowering blood pressure. Beta-blockers are also used for some cardiac conditions that may be present in patients with hypertension.
Another type of bendroflumethiazide tablets are those that are combined with rauwolfia. Rauwolfia alkaloids act on the nerve impulses of the blood vessels to reduce blood pressure. These tablets are no longer available in some parts of the world.
Both single ingredient and combination products go by different trade names in different countries. In most countries a doctor's prescription is needed. Blood pressure and the response to the medication should be monitored by a medical practitioner. As with any drug, interactions may occur with other medications or disease states, and adverse reactions may occur. These should all be discussed with the prescribing doctor.
The best choice of antihypertensive agent will be made clinically. Although there are a number of different bendroflumethiazide tablets, the best one for each person is made on a case-by-case basis. The prescribed dose and dosage regimen should be followed closely.