Mind & Mood

Some blood pressure drugs may lower dementia risk

In the journals

By , Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch

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Studies have shown a link between keeping blood pressure below 120/80 millimeters of mercury and a lower risk of developing dementia. For many older people, reaching that goal requires taking medication. To date, it has been unclear whether any particular drug or combination of drugs makes a difference in dementia risk.

A new study has found that blood pressure drugs that stimulate type 2 and 4 angiotensin II receptors in the brain may offer greater protection against Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. These drugs include angiotensin-receptor blockers, such as valsartan (Diovan) and losartan (Cozaar); dihydropyridine calcium-channel blockers, like amlodipine (Norvasc); and thiazide diuretics, like hydrochlorothiazide (also known as HCTZ).

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About the Author

photo of Matthew Solan

Matthew Solan, Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch

Matthew Solan is the executive editor of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. He previously served as executive editor for UCLA Health’s Healthy Years and as a contributor to Duke Medicine’s Health News and Weill Cornell Medical College’s … See Full Bio
View all posts by Matthew Solan

About the Reviewer

photo of Howard E. LeWine, MD

Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing

Dr. Howard LeWine is a practicing internist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Chief Medical Editor at Harvard Health Publishing, and editor in chief of Harvard Men’s Health Watch. See Full Bio
View all posts by Howard E. LeWine, MD

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