Which type of medication would a clinician likely prescribe to reduce blood pressure?

Diuretics are a class of medications commonly prescribed to reduce blood pressure, particularly in patients with hypertension. These medications work by promoting the excretion of sodium and water from the kidneys, which decreases blood volume and, consequently, lowers blood pressure. By reducing the amount of fluid in the bloodstream, diuretics can help alleviate the workload on the heart and improve overall cardiovascular health.

The other types of medications listed do not primarily serve this purpose. Antidepressants are mainly used to treat mood disorders and have no direct role in blood pressure management. Antihistamines are used to treat allergic reactions and symptoms, such as runny nose and itching, but they do not influence blood pressure directly. Antibiotics are designed to fight bacterial infections and are not involved in the regulation of blood pressure. Therefore, diuretics stand out as the appropriate choice for managing and reducing high blood pressure.