Safety and efficacy of angiotensin II receptor antagonists

A disturbing pattern in the management of hypertension is emerging worldwide. More patients are being treated for hypertension, but blood pressures are not decreasing to target levels. Inadequate reduction in blood pressure is a risk factor for coronary artery disease. Poor drug efficacy, side effects, and lack of compliance are important factors leading to inadequate control of blood pressure. Angiotensin II receptor antagonists provide adequate 24-hour blood pressure control, as measured by ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, and have a side-effect profile similar to placebo. They also provide better patient compliance through once-daily dosing. This article compares the safety and efficacy of angiotensin II receptor antagonists with other antihypertensive agents. (C) 1999 by Excerpta Medica, Inc.