Do you also have high blood pressure, or "pressure" as we all know it? If so, your doctor has probably prescribed you medication for it. There are many types of medications that are given for this pressure. Among them, ARBs are one of the most commonly prescribed classes of medications. So today, let's talk about this type of medication called ARBs simply, in a way that you can understand.
Simply put, what are these ARBs?
ARBs are short for Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers . These are a type of medication that is used to treat high blood pressure, as well as several other conditions, such as heart failure and kidney disease. They are available as oral medications.
The main function of these medications is to block the action of a hormone called Angiotensin II in our body. This hormone causes our blood vessels to constrict. It's like squeezing a water pipe. Then the space for blood to flow decreases and the pressure increases. ARB medications work by blocking the space that that hormone has to constrict the blood vessels. Then the blood vessels open up and are free, so blood can move easily, and the pressure is also controlled.
For what situations does a doctor prescribe ARB medications?
Doctors mainly prescribe this medication for the following conditions:
- High blood pressure: Lowers blood pressure by opening blood vessels and allowing blood to flow more easily.
- Congestive heart failure: Help the heart pump blood efficiently throughout the body.
- Kidney disease: Control and slow down damage to the kidneys, especially due to diabetes.
- Heart attack prevention: To prevent a heart attack or limit damage to the heart after it occurs.
- To prevent stroke: Keep blood vessels open, allowing blood clots to pass through without getting stuck, reducing the risk of stroke.
- Fatty liver disease: In some cases, these can also be used to prevent inflammatory conditions that occur in the liver.
What are the most common types of ARB medications?
If the name of the medicine you are given usually ends in "-sartan", it is most likely an ARB. See the table below.
| Generic Name of the Medicine | Common Brand Names® |
|---|---|
| Azilsartan medoxomil | Edarbi® |
| Candesartan | Atacand® |
| Eprosartan mesylate | Teveten® |
| Irbesartan | Avapro® |
| Losartan | Cozaar® (the most commonly prescribed ARB in Sri Lanka) |
| Olmesartan | Benicar® |
| Telmisartan | Micardis® |
| Valsartan | Diovan®, Prexxartan® |
Are there any side effects to these medications?
Like any medication, ARBs can cause minor side effects in some people, but not everyone gets them.
- Dizziness
- Feeling tired (Fatigue)
- Headache
- Sometimes swelling of the face and tongue - this is a rare but serious condition. If this happens, seek medical advice immediately.
Very rarely, ARBs can affect blood flow to the kidneys. This risk is higher if you already have renal artery disease. This is why your doctor will check your kidney function with blood tests from time to time.
What is the difference between ACE Inhibitors and ARBs?
This is a question that many people ask. ACE inhibitors are another major type of medication used to treat high blood pressure. Both of these types work by blocking the hormone `Angiotensin` that we talked about earlier.
- ACE inhibitors work by reducing the body's production of the hormone 'Angiotensin'.
- What ARBs do is block the ability of the produced hormone `Angiotensin` to do its job (constrict blood vessels).
A major side effect of ACE inhibitors is a dry cough . Some people have this persistent cough. At that point, doctors will stop the ACE inhibitor and start an ARB instead.
Do I need to be careful when taking other medications with ARBs?
Yes, absolutely. If you are taking medication for your blood pressure, do not take any other medication or supplement from a pharmacy or anywhere else without first asking your doctor.
- Some medications for coughs, colds, and allergies can cause blood pressure to increase.
- Painkillers, especially NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, diclofenac), can also increase blood pressure. These interfere with the effectiveness of ARBs.
- ARBs can increase potassium levels in the body. Therefore, avoid taking potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics without your doctor's supervision. Increased potassium levels can adversely affect your heart rate.
Is it okay to take ARB medications during pregnancy?
Absolutely not. This is a very important point. Both ARBs and ACE inhibitors are very dangerous to take during pregnancy. They can cause serious complications for the baby in the womb.
- Birth defects
- Kidney failure
- High potassium levels
- Low blood pressure
- Stillbirth
If you had high blood pressure before you became pregnant, or if you are planning to become pregnant, be sure to tell your doctor. He or she will be able to prescribe a different medication that is safe for you and your baby.
Take-Home Message
- ARB is a type of medication commonly used to treat high blood pressure, heart disease, and kidney disease.
- These work by blocking the action of a hormone that constricts blood vessels, relaxing the blood vessels and controlling blood pressure.
- Take your medicine every day, at the prescribed dose and time, as prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop taking your medicine at will.
- Tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking, even painkillers.
- Very important: If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it is not advisable to take ARBs. Talk to your doctor immediately.
- If you have any questions about this medication, never be afraid to ask your doctor.
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