Which of the following is not a type of anti-hypertensive medication?

Benzodiazepines are primarily classified as anxiolytics or sedative medications, used to treat conditions such as anxiety, seizures, and insomnia. They function by enhancing the effects of the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain, leading to sedation and muscle relaxation. This mechanism does not exert a direct impact on blood pressure control or hypertension management, distinguishing them from anti-hypertensive medications.

In contrast, diuretics, calcium channel blockers, and beta blockers are all recognized classes of anti-hypertensive medications. Diuretics help reduce blood pressure by promoting the excretion of sodium and water from the body, which decreases blood volume. Calcium channel blockers work by inhibiting the influx of calcium into cardiac and vascular smooth muscle cells, leading to vasodilation and reduced heart contractility. Beta blockers lower blood pressure by blocking the effects of adrenaline (epinephrine), which decreases heart rate and reduces the force of contraction of the heart muscle. Understanding these differences is crucial for recognizing which medications are used in treating hypertension.