What is the recommended first-line treatment for hypertension in adults?

The recommended first-line treatment for hypertension in adults focuses on a combination of lifestyle modifications and thiazide diuretics. This approach addresses hypertension comprehensively, starting with non-pharmacologic interventions that can significantly reduce blood pressure. These modifications include dietary changes, regular physical activity, weight loss, and limiting alcohol intake and sodium consumption.

Thiazide diuretics are effective in providing additional blood pressure control, especially in the general population. They act by promoting the excretion of sodium and water, thereby reducing blood volume and resulting in lower blood pressure. This combination enhances patient outcomes by not only lowering blood pressure but also encouraging adherence through lifestyle changes that promote overall health.

Other medications, like ACE inhibitors and calcium channel blockers, may be beneficial in specific populations or cases, such as those with certain comorbidities, but thiazide diuretics, combined with lifestyle changes, form the cornerstone of initial therapy for the average adult with hypertension. This strategy is supported by multiple clinical guidelines and research, emphasizing its effectiveness and safety as first-line treatment.