Medications and Exercise

The higher the dose of medication the higher the effects will be. Also the time of day that the drug is taken is important because the effect of the drug wears off over time.

Antihypertensives are drugs that are used to control blood pressure. There are 4 main kinds of antihypertensives:

-Beta Blockers- Beta Blockers are used to reduce heart rate.

-Calcium Channel Blockers- Prevents contraction of smooth muscles in arteries, causing them to dialate. They can increase, decrease, or have no effect on the heart rate.

-Angintesin Converting Enzyme- Blocks an enzyme that constricts the blood vessels, comes from the kidneys. Blood pressure decreases after a workout, no effect on the heart.

-Diuretics- Perscribed for high blood pressure, increases excretion of water. People that take diuretics are very prone to dehydration. Make sure to drink plenty of fluid.

Bronchodialators- These medicatons open the airways and increases the exercise capacity.

Cold Medications

-Decongesants- Cause air passages to open, but constricts vessels, may cause the heart rate to increase.

-Antihystamines- Do not effect blood pressure or heart rate, but may cause drowsiness and dryness. These drugs usually have a minimal effect on exercise because of the low doseage.