what does angiotensin ii do
Your blood vessels can choke up sometimes.
And this can cause throbbing pain internally—an effect of hypertension.
Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a prevalent health condition that can lead to serious cardiovascular complications if left uncontrolled.
Angiotensin II receptor antagonists (ARBs) are a class of blood pressure medications. Here, we’ll look at how ARBs work to solve hypertension, their benefits, potential side effects, and important cautions regarding consumption.
How Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonists (ARBs) Solve Hypertension:
Angiotensin II is a hormone that causes blood vessels to constrict, leading to increased blood pressure. ARBs work by blocking the action of angiotensin II at specific receptor sites, resulting in vasodilation, or the widening of blood vessels. This relaxation of blood vessels helps to lower blood pressure, reducing the strain on the heart and preventing potential cardiovascular complications.
Benefits of Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonists (ARBs):
- Effective Blood Pressure Control: ARBs are known for their efficacy in lowering blood pressure, making them an essential choice in managing hypertension.
- Cardiovascular Protection: By reducing blood pressure and improving blood flow, ARBs offer cardiovascular protection, lowering the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
- Kidney Protection: ARBs can also benefit individuals with diabetes or kidney disease, as they help protect the kidneys from the harmful effects of high blood pressure.
Potential Side Effects of Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonists (ARBs):
Most individuals tolerate ARBs well, but like all medications, they may cause side effects in some people.
Common side effects may include:
- Cough
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Stomach upset
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
Cautions Regarding Substances and Bodily Conditions:
- Potassium-Sparing D1iuretics: Combining ARBs with potassium-sparing diuretics can lead to hyperkalemia (high potassium levels in the blood), which can be harmful.
- Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs, when taken with ARBs, may reduce the blood pressure-lowering effect of the medication.
- Pregnancy: ARBs are generally not recommended during pregnancy, as they may harm the developing fetus. Pregnant women should discuss alternative treatments with their healthcare provider.
Interactions with Other Medications:
- Lithium: ARBs may increase lithium levels in the blood, potentially leading to lithium toxicity. Close monitoring is essential if these medications are used together.
- Certain Antihypertensive Medications: Combining ARBs with other antihypertensive medications may result in a more significant decrease in blood pressure, requiring close monitoring to avoid hypotension (low blood pressure).
Pre-existing Medical Conditions:
Individuals with the following medical conditions may require careful consideration when using ARBs:
- Kidney Disease: ARBs can affect kidney function, and patients with kidney disease should have their kidney function regularly monitored.
- Liver Disease: Liver function tests may be necessary for individuals with liver impairment, as ARBs are metabolized by the liver.
- Heart Failure: In some cases, ARBs may be used to treat heart failure, but patients should be monitored closely.
Conclusion:
Angiotensin II receptor antagonists (ARBs) have proven to be an effective and well-tolerated treatment for hypertension. By blocking the action of angiotensin II and promoting vasodilation, ARBs lower blood pressure, offer cardiovascular protection, and help preserve kidney function in certain individuals.
While generally safe, patients should be aware of potential side effects and interactions with other medications. It is crucial to inform healthcare providers of any pre-existing medical conditions or medications to ensure the safe and effective use of ARBs.
By closely adhering to healthcare providers’ recommendations, individuals can effectively manage hypertension with ARBs and reduce the risk of complications associated with high blood pressure. Find these ARBs at trusted online pharmacies like Gympharmacy; this website also distributes Macsart Beta 50, which combines two types of high blood pressure medications: angiotensin II receptor antagonists and beta blockers.