Meta Information
ID:angiotensin-receptor-blockers
Name:Angiotensin Receptor Blockers
Schema Version:1.5
Alternate Names
- ARBs
Active Compound
null
Intervention Type
therapeutic_agent
Delivery
Route:
oral
Scope:
- systemic
Regulatory Status
- us:rx_drug
- eu:rx_drug
Indication
Focus:
disease_treatment
Description:
Primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), congestive heart failure, and chronic kidney disease, particularly in patients with diabetes.
Typical Protocol
- Dosing is initiated at a low level and titrated upwards based on blood pressure response and patient tolerance.
- Typically taken once daily, with or without food, as prescribed by a physician.
Expected Cost Mean
Low Cost:
10
High Cost:
50
Cost Type:
monthly
Description:
Generic versions are widely available and typically covered by insurance.
Summary
Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs) are a class of medications that block the action of angiotensin II, a potent chemical in the body that causes blood vessels to constrict. By preventing this constriction, ARBs allow blood vessels to relax and widen, which lowers blood pressure. This action reduces the workload on the heart and helps protect organs like the kidneys from damage caused by sustained high blood pressure.
Purpose
Lowers blood pressure and reduces strain on the heart and kidneys.
Card Summary
A class of prescription drugs that lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels, used to treat hypertension and heart failure.
Drug Class
null
Drugs In Class
- losartan
- valsartan
- irbesartan
- candesartan
- olmesartan
- telmisartan
Impact
Score:
9
Justification:
First-line, highly effective therapy for hypertension, heart failure, and diabetic nephropathy.
Evidence
Grade:
A
Score:
10
Justification:
Extensive evidence from numerous large-scale randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses.
Safety
Score:
5.5
Justification:
Generally well-tolerated but can cause dizziness, high potassium, and kidney issues.
Flags
- Contraindicated during pregnancy due to risk of fetal injury or death.
- May cause hyperkalemia (high potassium), especially with renal impairment or certain other drugs.
- Can cause dizziness or lightheadedness, particularly when starting therapy.
- Requires periodic monitoring of blood pressure, kidney function, and potassium levels.
- Rarely, can cause angioedema (rapid swelling of the skin and tissues).
Verdict
A foundational, evidence-backed treatment for hypertension and related cardiovascular/renal diseases.
Qualifier
scope: systemic, focused on disease treatment
Created
2026-05-05T22:16:58.170906Z
Ai Model
Gemini 2.5 Pro (High)