Angiotensin Receptor Blocker

Angiotensin II, produced within the body, tends to narrow your blood vessels thereby increasing blood pressure. It also leads to a subsequent increase in the amount of water and sodium in the body. Over time, the walls of the heart and blood vessels thicken.

Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are drugs that block the action of the angiotensin II. These ARBs widen the blood vessels and reduce the water retained within the body. The action of the angiotensin II receptor blockers is similar to that of the ACE inhibitors. They are prescribed for persons suffering high blood pressure. ARBs are also prescribed for chronic kidney disease and heart failure. But they might lead to side-effects such as dizziness and headache and pain in the legs and back. Women who are pregnant or planning to have a baby must avoid ARBs as they can cause birth defects.