Which medication can help manage hypertension in patients with a history of myocardial infarction?

Metoprolol is a beta-adrenergic blocker that is particularly effective in managing hypertension, especially in patients with a history of myocardial infarction. After a heart attack, the heart may be at increased risk for further complications, and beta-blockers like metoprolol play a crucial role in reducing the workload on the heart, lowering heart rate, and decreasing myocardial oxygen demand. This protective effect is beneficial in preventing future cardiac events in these patients.

Additionally, studies have shown that the use of beta-blockers post-myocardial infarction can significantly improve outcomes and reduce mortality. Metoprolol specifically has a proven track record in this area, making it a preferred choice for managing hypertension in this population.

Other medications listed may manage hypertension but do not offer the same level of cardioprotective benefits following a myocardial infarction. For instance, while olmesartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker with antihypertensive properties, it may not have the same extent of evidence supporting its use after a heart attack as beta-blockers do. Clonidine is not typically first-line therapy for hypertension in post-MI patients due to potential adverse effects. Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic that is