Guidelines for ATC classification and DDD assignment - WHOCC

C02 ANTIHYPERTENSIVES
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See also C03 - Diuretics, C07 - Beta blocking agents, C08 - Calcium
channel blockers and C09 - Agents acting on the renin-angiotensin
system.
Antihypertensives are mainly classified at 3rd levels according to the
mechanism of action. Most headings are self-explanatory:
C02A Antiadrenergic agents, centrally acting
C02B Antiadrenergic agents, ganglion-blocking
C02C Antiadrenergic agents, peripherally acting
C02D Arteriolar smooth muscle, agents acting on
C02K Other antihypertensives
C02L Antihypertensives and diuretics in combination
C02N Combinations of antihypertensives in ATC gr. C02
The oral DDDs are based on the average doses needed to reduce the
blood pressure to a normal level in patients with mild-moderate
hypertension.
Parenteral DDDs are based on dosages used for the treatment of
hypertensive crises and are based on the content of the active
ingredient pr. vial (ampoule).
C02A ANTIADRENERGIC AGENTS, CENTRALLY ACTING
C02AA Rauwolfia alkaloids
This group comprises plain and combined rauwolfia preparations used
in hypertension.
There are separate 5th levels for combinations of rauwolfia alkaloids
(C02AA03) and for rauwolfia, whole root (C02AA04).
Combinations with beta blocking agents, see C07F - Beta blocking
agents and other antihypertensives.
Combinations with diuretics, see C02LA - Rauwolfia alkaloids and
diuretics in combination.