irbesartan

Irbesartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used primarily to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and to protect kidney function in people with type 2 diabetes and nephropathy. It works by selectively blocking the AT1 subtype of angiotensin II receptors in tissues such as vascular smooth muscle and the adrenal gland. This blockade prevents angiotensin II from causing vasoconstriction and aldosterone secretion, resulting in relaxation of blood vessels and reduced blood pressure. Irbesartan has a much higher affinity for the AT1 receptor than for the AT2 receptor (over 8500-fold). It is taken orally once daily due to its long duration of action. Developed by Sanofi.

Brand names

AvaproKarveaIfirmacombiKarvezideAvalide

Other names

irbesartanum