Angiotensin II receptor blockers

Also called angiotensin 2 receptor blockers, these medicines treat high blood pressure. Find out when you might need them.

By Mayo Clinic Staff

Angiotensin 2 receptor blockers are a type of medicine used to treat high blood pressure. Other names for this type of medicine are:

  • Angiotensin receptor blockers.
  • Angiotensin II receptor blockers.
  • ARBs.

Angiotensin is a chemical in the body that narrows the blood vessels. When blood vessels are narrow, blood pressure can go up.

ARBs stop the action of angiotensin 2. So the veins and arteries in the body relax. This lowers blood pressure.

Several ARBs are available. Which one is best for you depends on your health and the condition being treated.

Examples of ARBs include:

  • Azilsartan (Edarbi).
  • Candesartan (Atacand).
  • Irbesartan (Avapro).
  • Losartan (Cozaar).
  • Olmesartan (Benicar).
  • Telmisartan (Micardis).
  • Valsartan (Diovan).

When these medicines are used

ARBs are used to lower blood pressure. But they also 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 ARBs 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 have reported digestive problems. Talk with your healthcare team if you have severe diarrhea or lose a lot of weight while taking this medicine.

Don't take ARBs if you're pregnant or you plan to become pregnant. The medicines can harm a growing baby, also called a fetus, in the womb.

Talk with your healthcare team if you have any questions about the medicines you take.

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March 28, 2025 See more In-depth

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