Which medication have least side effects

I am a 40 year old active female with hypertension on both sides of my family.  This year I have been having BP readings of sistolic running between 122 and 145 and distolic running between 88 - 110.  I lost weight, cut salt out of my diet 15 years ago and have stepped up my exercise program but the blood pressure is still running high.  My doctor at this point wants me to be put on medication and because of the fact it runs in my family has prepared me for the fact that I may be on medication for hypertension for the rest of my life.  I also take synthroid since my thyroid was removed in 1984 for hyperthroidism.  My doctor put me on Toprol 2 days ago and the only side effect that is bothersome is the fact that my hands get ice cold about one hour after I take it.  I also feel lethargic and have seen that Toprol can cause depression.  I have been on antidepressants in the past for OCD (obsessive thinking) and depression.  

If I need to be on a medication for High Blood Pressure for the rest of my life I want to pick the best one that will not aggrevate depression or Obsessive Thinking and that will be safe to use with the least side effects for the rest of my life.

What is your recommendation for a life long medication and have you ever heard of Toprol causing cold hands and aggrevating depression?

[CCF CARDIO MD JMF]

Dear Kim,

Toprol may cause an increase in depression as well as cold intolerance.

You may wish to ask your physician about other alternatives ( Norvasc, ace inhibitors)

Best of luck

[Stan]

COULD YOU TELL ME OF ALL THE POSSIBLE SIDE AFFECTS OF THE DRUG ZOKOR?  THANKS

[CCF CARDIO MD JMF]

Zocor is well tolerated but may cause muscle cramping and an irritation to the muscle.  it may cause GI symptoms.

[Suzanne Peters]

I am currently being treated for hypothyroidism due to
removal of the thyroid gland from complications of a
pre-mag tumor. Currently I am looking for a medication
other then zocor and lipator,both caused severe leg
cramps. If you can list some anti-cholesteral meds that
don`t have the above side effects. I hope this message
gets to you.
                   sincerely,
                           Suzanne Peters