Angiotensin receptor blockers

Angiotensin Receptor Blockers

Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), also known as angiotensin II receptor antagonists, are a group of pharmaceuticals that modulate the renin-angiotensin system. Their main uses are in the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetic nephropathy (kidney damage due to diabetes), and heart failure.

Pronunciation

Angiotensin: /ˌændʒiːoʊˈtɛnsɪn/ Receptor: /rɪˈsɛptər/ Blockers: /ˈblɒkər/

Etymology

The term "angiotensin" comes from the combination of "angio-" (from the Greek angeion, meaning "vessel") and "-tensin" (from the Latin tensio, meaning "tension"). "Receptor" comes from the Latin recipere, meaning "to receive". "Blockers" is derived from the verb "to block", meaning "to obstruct".

Function

ARBs work by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a hormone that can constrict blood vessels, release another hormone that increases the amount of sodium and water the body retains, and stimulate the release of a hormone that increases blood pressure. By blocking the action of angiotensin II, ARBs help to lower blood pressure, reduce the workload on the heart, and protect the kidneys.

Related Terms

• Angiotensin II: A hormone that can constrict blood vessels, increase the amount of sodium and water the body retains, and stimulate the release of a hormone that increases blood pressure.
• Renin-angiotensin system: A hormone system that regulates blood pressure and fluid balance.
• Hypertension: A condition characterized by consistently high blood pressure.
• Diabetic nephropathy: Kidney damage due to diabetes.
• Heart failure: A condition in which the heart can't pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.

Examples of ARBs

Some examples of angiotensin receptor blockers include losartan, valsartan, and irbesartan. These medications are often used in combination with other drugs to manage hypertension and other related conditions.

This WikiMD.org article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.