title: The role of angiotensin receptor blockers in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
abstract: New approaches to the definition and treatment of hypertension have increased emphasis on reducing overall cardiovascular risk and on targeting the underlying mechanisms of cardiovascular disease. During the past several decades, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) activation has emerged as an important factor in the pathophysiology of endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) have well-established efficacy for treating CVD, but their use may be limited by intolerable side effects, such as cough and angioedema. Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), a different class of RAAS inhibitors, are considered a viable alternative to ACEIs. Clinical trials have further elucidated the role of ARBs in CVD. This article reviews the mechanism of action of ARBs and selected clinical trials of ARBs in CVD.
authors.affiliation: Veteran Affairs Hospital, Washington, DC 20422, USA.
authors.forename: Dmitry
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Abramov
authors.forename: Peter E
authors.initials: PE
authors.lastname: Carson
mesh_terms: D057911:Angiotensin Receptor Antagonists / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy*; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D004198:Disease Susceptibility; D006801:Humans; D012084:Renin-Angiotensin System / Q000187:drug effects; D012307:Risk Factors
chemical_list: D057911:Angiotensin Receptor Antagonists