Angiotensin II receptor blockers
Also called angiotensin 2 receptor blockers, these medicines treat high blood pressure. Find out when you might need them.
Updated: 2023-08-04
Angiotensin 2 receptor blockers are a type of medicine used to treat high blood pressure. This type of medicine also may be called angiotensin II receptor blockers.
Angiotensin is a chemical in the body that narrows the blood vessels. When blood vessels are narrow, blood pressure can go up.
Angiotensin 2 receptor blockers stop the action of angiotensin 2. As a result, the medicine helps relax the veins and arteries in the body, lowering blood pressure.
Several angiotensin 2 receptor blockers are available. Which one is best for you depends on your health and the condition being treated.
Examples of angiotensin 2 receptor blockers include:
- Azilsartan (Edarbi).
- Candesartan (Atacand).
- Irbesartan (Avapro).
- Losartan (Cozaar).
- Olmesartan (Benicar).
- Telmisartan (Micardis).
- Valsartan (Diovan).
When these medicines are used
In addition to treating high blood pressure, angiotensin 2 receptor blockers may prevent, treat or improve symptoms in people who have:
- Chronic kidney disease.
- Heart failure.
- Kidney failure due to diabetes.
Side effects
Possible side effects of angiotensin 2 receptor blockers can include:
- Dizziness.
- Too much potassium in the blood.
- Swelling of the skin due to extra fluid.
Some people taking the angiotensin 2 receptor blocker olmesartan (Benicar) have reported digestive problems. Talk to your health care team if you have severe diarrhea or lose a lot of weight while taking this medicine.
Don't take angiotensin 2 receptor blockers if you're pregnant or you plan to become pregnant. The medicines can harm a developing baby while growing in the womb.
Talk to your health care team if you have any questions about the medicines you take.