Angiotensin-Receptor Blockers (ARBs)

Question 1

What suffix is associated with ARBs?

Answer 1

-tan

Question 2

What does ARB stand for?

Answer 2

Angiotensin-receptor blocker

Question 3

What are the names of some common ARBs?

Answer 3

Candesartan (Atacand)
Irbesartan (Avapro)
Valsartan (Diovan)

Question 4

MOA

Answer 4

Block angiotensin II receptor blockers and angiotensin-mediated aldosterone secretion (block the angiotensin II receptor on the target organ to prevent the vasoconstriction that it causes)

Question 5

What is the difference between an ACE inhibitor and an ARB?

Answer 5

ACE inhibitors block the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, and ARBs allow the formation of angiotensin II but block its receptors on its target organ and angiotensin-mediated aldosterone secretion –> BOTH prevent the vasoconstriction caused by angiotensin II

Question 6

T/F: ARBs have the most SE’s out of all anti-HTN meds.

Answer 6

F - ARBs have the lowest incidence of SE’s

Question 7

What are some common adverse reactions of ARBs (Candesartan; Irbasartan; Valsartan)

Answer 7

HYPERkalemia
Dry cough (less common)