Hypertension: Treatment With Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers

Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) have the same effects as ACE inhibitors, another type of blood pressure medication, but work by a different mechanism. These drugs decrease certain chemicals that narrow the blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily through your body which lowers blood pressure. ARBs, at the present time, are generally prescribed when you cannot tolerate an ACE inhibitor.

Examples of ARBs include:

• Cozaar (losartan)
• Diovan (valsartan)
• Avapro (irbesartan)
• Atacand (candesartan)

What Are Some of the Side Effects?

Some of the side effects of taking ARBs include:

• Dizziness, lightheadedness or faintness upon rising. This side effect may be strongest after the first dose, especially if you have been taking a diuretic (water pill). Contact your doctor if these symptoms are persistent or severe.
• Physical problems. Diarrhea, muscle cramps or weakness, back or leg pain, insomnia (difficulty sleeping), irregular heartbeat, or fast or slow heartbeat, sinusitis or upper respiratory infection. Contact your doctor if these symptoms are persistent or severe.
• Confusion. Contact your doctor right away.
• Severe vomiting or diarrhea. If you become sick with severe vomiting or diarrhea you may become dehydrated, which can lead to low blood pressure. Contact your doctor.
• Abnormalities in blood chemistry laboratory tests.

Also contact your doctor if you have any other symptoms that cause concern.

Medication Guidelines

• ARBs can be taken on an empty or full stomach. Follow the label directions on how often to take this medication. The number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and how long you need to take the medication will depend on the type of ARB prescribed, as well as your condition. Note: It may take many weeks for you to feel the full effects of the medication.
• While taking this medication, have your blood pressure and kidney function checked regularly, as recommended by your doctor.

Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Heart Center.