What type of medication is used primarily to treat hypertension?

ACE inhibitors are a class of medications specifically designed to treat hypertension, which is high blood pressure. They work by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which is involved in the body's renin-angiotensin system. This system regulates blood pressure by controlling the constriction of blood vessels. By blocking this enzyme, ACE inhibitors prevent the conversion of angiotensin I into angiotensin II, a powerful vasoconstrictor, leading to relaxation of blood vessels and a decrease in blood pressure.

In contrast, antihistamines are primarily used to treat allergic reactions and conditions like hay fever. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, and antidepressants are utilized for managing depression and other mood disorders. Therefore, while each of these medication classes serves important functions in their respective therapeutic areas, ACE inhibitors are uniquely effective for managing hypertension.