Angiotensin II receptor antagonists in arterial hypertension

Abstract

Angiotensin II receptor antagonists (AT-1) represent a new group of orally active antihypertensive agents. Activation on AT-1 receptor leads to vasoconstriction, stimulation of the release of catecholamines and antidiuretic hormone with production of thirst, and promote growth of vascular and cardiac muscle; these effects are blocked by AT-1 antagonist agents. The first chemically useful, orally active AT-1 receptor antagonist was losartan, followed by other agents currently in clinical use, such as: valsartan, eprosartan, irbesartan, telmisartan, candesartan, and many others under investigation. AT-1 receptor antagonists are effective in reducing high blood pressure in hypertensive patients. Monotherapy in mild to moderate hypertension controls blood pressure in 40 to 50% of these patients; when a low dose of