ARBs

Question 1

MOA

Answer 1

• Angiotensin-Il receptor antagonists
• They block the Angiotensin 2 receptors (ACE inhibitors prevent production of angiotensin 2)

Question 2

Examples

sartan

Answer 2

• Losartan
• Candesartan
• Irbesartan
• Telmisartan
• Valsartan

Question 3

SE

Answer 3

• Hyperkalaemia
• Hypotension
• Renal impairment

No: cough, angioedema

Question 4

Is a dry cough a side-effect of ARB?

Answer 4

• Yes but less likely and NOT as common as ACE-I
• Unlike ACE inhibitors, they do not inhibit the breakdown of bradykinin and other kinins
• Thats why those who cannot tolerate ACE-l are offered ARBs as an alternative

Question 5

Can ARBs be taken during pregnancy?

Answer 5

AVOID

Question 6

Can ARBs be taken whilst breastfeeding?

Answer 6

• There is limited information on safety whilst breastfeeding
• Not recommended
• Enalapril (an ACE-inhibitor) can be offered as an alternative

Question 7

Renal impairment

Answer 7

caution