A patient with essential hypertension was prescribed hydrochlorothiazide as a part of complex therapy. What mechanism of drug action facilitates a decrease in blood pressure in this case?

Answer options

1. Carbonic anhydrase blockade
2. Decreased excretion of sodium ions and water
3. Calcium channel blockade
4. Increased excretion of sodium ions and water
5. Increased production of angiotensin II