Hypertension treatment today, often consists of more than one type of agent.

There are more than 6 families of drugs that each work a bit differently and when combined in moderate doses often work better than one agent alone.

Betablockers like Metopolol are not considered first line anymore. Most doctors use an ACE inhibitor with or without a mild diuretic to start.

I have had hyptension for over 30 yrs now...I've been on most everything out there. Everyone is different and trial and error and patience is necessary to
find the right drug for the right time of your life etc.

I prefer what I am on now best... it is lisinopril, which is an ACE inhibitor. These drugs have some anti-inflammatory effects on blood vessels, and some of the ACE's have shown potential for reducing risk of Alzheimer's. Lisinopril is one. But some of the others in this family do not offer that protection.