Question: Can you please explain why some blood pressure medications are selected over others, and why some types are prohibited by the Federal Aviation Administration for airmen?

Dr. Hibberd's Answer:

Ideally, the selection of blood pressure medication is customized to each patient’s co-existing medical conditions. While a guide to the process of selecting medication is published for physicians, other factors also guide our choices.

Discussion of the various medications available with their pros and cons is beyond the limited scope of this column. There is, however, a very good summary under the heading of "Choosing Blood Pressure Medications" at www.mayoclinic.com.

For safety reasons, the FAA has established strict guidelines and limits for patients with hypertension. They are provided to your physician and are subject to change. In addition, most states have strict limits for BP management and control for simple commercial driver’s license certification.

Ask your doctor for a copy of any of these guidelines if you wish to review them; they are self-explanatory.