What are Angiotensin Blockers: Uses, Side Effects

Overview of Angiotensin Blockers

Angiotensin blockers, also known as Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs), are a class of drugs primarily used to manage hypertension (high blood pressure) and heart failure. They work by blocking the effects of angiotensin II, a peptide hormone that causes blood vessels to constrict. As a result, ARBs help blood vessels relax and dilate, reducing blood pressure and improving blood flow. These medications are an important part of cardiovascular treatment plans and can be particularly beneficial for patients who experience side effects from ACE inhibitors, another class of blood pressure medications.

Benefits of Angiotensin Blockers

• Blood Pressure Regulation: ARBs are effective in lowering blood pressure by preventing blood vessel constriction, which can decrease the risk of stroke and heart attack.

 

• Heart Failure Management: By reducing the workload on the heart, ARBs can improve survival rates and quality of life for patients with heart failure.

 

• Kidney Protection: These drugs are protective for kidneys, particularly in patients with diabetes, by reducing proteinuria (excessive protein in the urine) and slowing the progression of kidney disease.

 

• Fewer Side Effects: Compared to ACE inhibitors, ARBs are less likely to cause a persistent cough and angioedema, which makes them a viable alternative for some patients.

Mechanism of Action

ARBs function by selectively blocking the AT1 receptor, one of the primary receptors for angiotensin II. This inhibition prevents angiotensin II from exerting its biological effects, which include vasoconstriction, aldosterone secretion, and enhancement of sympathetic activity—all factors that can increase blood pressure and strain on the cardiovascular system.

Common ARBs

• Losartan: Often prescribed for hypertension and diabetic nephropathy.

 

• Valsartan: Used for treating heart failure, hypertension, and after a heart attack to improve survival.

 

• Candesartan: Typically used for heart failure and hypertension, providing benefits in patients intolerant to ACE inhibitors.

 

• Irbesartan: Primarily used to treat high blood pressure and diabetic nephropathy in type 2 diabetes.

Important Considerations

• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood pressure and kidney function is important when using ARBs to ensure efficacy and safety.

 

• Drug Interactions: Patients should inform their healthcare providers about all medications and supplements they are taking, as ARBs can interact with other drugs such as NSAIDs and lithium.

 

• Contraindications: ARBs should generally be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding unless explicitly directed by a healthcare professional.

 

• Side Effects: Although fewer than with ACE inhibitors, side effects can include dizziness, hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels), and occasionally, gastrointestinal disturbances.