ARB:
ARB stands for angiotensin receptor blockers. Angiotensin is a peptide hormone that is part of renin-angiotensin system. It causes vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels). This leads to an increase in blood pressure. There are four types of angiotensins (I, II, III, & IV). Since high blood pressure leads to cardiovascular complications, it is treated with angiotensin receptor blockers. ARBs work by blocking the action of angiotensin that causes narrowing blood vessels. This medication causes the blood vessels to enlarge making it easier for the heart to pump blood. Added to that, in people with diabetes, the progression of kidney disease due to high blood pressure is halted with this medication. ARBs are used to treat hypertension, heart failure, and kidney disease.
Possible side effects of ARBs:
• Headache.
• Dizziness.
• Backache.
• Pain in the leg.
• Nasal Congestion.
• Diarrhea.
