What is Candesartan?
Candesartan is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist used in the treatment of hypertension and certain types of heart failure, such as left ventricular dysfunction. It works by relaxing blood vessels to improve blood flow and lower blood pressure, thereby reducing the strain on the heart. Candesartan also reduces the production of a hormone called aldosterone, which can contribute to fluid retention.
What is Candesartan used for?
Candesartan is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist (ARB) used primarily in the treatment of hypertension and heart failure. It belongs to a class of medications known as sartans, which are structurally related to losartan, another ARB commonly used for these indications. Candesartan works by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor that constricts blood vessels and increases blood pressure.
By inhibiting the effects of angiotensin II on its receptor, candesartan leads to vasodilation and a subsequent decrease in systemic vascular resistance. This results in reduced blood pressure, decreased workload on the heart, and improved cardiac output in patients with heart failure. The therapeutic benefits of candesartan have been demonstrated in multiple clinical trials, demonstrating its efficacy as both monotherapy and combination therapy for treating hypertension and mild to moderate heart failure. In terms of pharmacokinetics, candesartan is primarily eliminated through the kidneys, with peak plasma concentrations observed approximately 3-4 hours post-administration.
As a medication prescribed by healthcare providers, candesartan’s safety profile has been extensively evaluated in clinical trials. Adverse effects are generally mild to moderate and may include fatigue, dizziness, back pain, and upper respiratory tract infections. Candesartan is available as oral tablets and is typically administered once daily with food, allowing for consistent blood levels of the medication throughout the dosing interval. It’s essential for patients using candesartan or other medications in its class to follow healthcare provider instructions and discuss their specific medical needs.
Candesartan side effects
• Dizziness • Headache • Diarrhea • Cough • Abdominal pain • Nasal congestion • Back pain • Fatigue • Upper respiratory tract infection • Hypotension (low blood pressure) • Increased creatinine • Hyperkalemia (high potassium levels)
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