Which class of medications is considered first-line for hypertension management in stroke patients?

The first-line class of medications for hypertension management in stroke patients is ACE inhibitors. These medications are beneficial due to their ability to lower blood pressure effectively while also providing additional neuroprotective effects, which can be critical in the context of stroke. Research supports the use of ACE inhibitors in stroke recovery and prevention, as they help to improve vascular health and may reduce the risk of subsequent strokes by promoting endothelial function and reducing arterial stiffness.

Moreover, ACE inhibitors are particularly favorable in patients with comorbid conditions such as diabetes or heart failure, which are often present in stroke patients. Their role in preventing further vascular events adds to their effectiveness. In contrast, while diuretics, calcium channel blockers, and beta blockers have their own uses in managing hypertension, they do not possess the same level of neuroprotective benefits following a stroke as ACE inhibitors do, making ACE inhibitors the preferred first-line option in this scenario.