Friday, May 27, 2011

Drug Classes: Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs)

Used to treat: Hypertension, Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)*

Mechanism of Action: Competes for angiotensin II binding sites in vascular smooth muscle

Contraindications: Pregnancy, breast feeding, limited effectiveness in black patients



Pregnancy Category:

  • (First Trimester) C - Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.
  • (Second and Third Trimester) D - There is positive evidence of human fetal risk based on adverse reaction data from investigational or marketing experience or studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.


Common Medications (Brand -- Generic)
  • Edarbi - Azilsartan
    • Tablets: 40mg, 80mg
  • Atacand - Candesartan*
    • Tablets: 4mg, 8mg, 16mg, 32mg
  • Avapro - Irbesartan
    • Tablets: 75mg, 150mg, 300mg
  • Cozaar - Losartan
    • Tablets: 25mg, 50mg, 100mg
  • Benicar - Olmesartan
    • Tablets: 5mg, 20mg, 40mg
  • Micardis - Telmisartan
    • Tablets: 20mg, 40mg, 80mg
  • Diovan - Valsartan*
    • Tablets: 40mg, 80mg, 160mg, 320mg

Common Side Effects

  • Hypotension
  • Dizziness

Rare, but Potentially Deadly Side Effects

  • Angioedema

Combination Drugs Containing ARBs:


Miscellaneous

  • Almost always end in -sartan

Sorry for being a little late. It's been one of those weeks at work. Next post hopefully on Sunday... along with an FDA update.

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