Candesartan

It is a angiotensin II receptor (type AT1) antagonist and it acts by blocking the vasoconstrictor and aldosterone secreting effects of angiotensin II by selectively blocking the binding of angoitensin II to the AT1 receptor in many tissues such as vascular smooth muscle and the adrenal gland.

Indications

Treatment of hypertension either alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents.

Dosage

Initially 16 mg once daily in patients who are not volume depleted. It may be given once or twice daily with total daily doses ranging from 8mg to 32mg.

Contra-Indications

Hypersensitivity, pregnancy.

Side Effects

Dizziness, nausea, diarrhoea, peripheral oedema, rhinitis, back pain, headache, URTI, coughing, fatigue, vomiting. Rarely nausea, arthralgia, myalgia, angiooedema, rash have been observed.

Drug Interactions

No significant drug interactions have been reported when candesartan cilexetil is given with other drugs such as nifedipine, digoxin, warfarin, hydrochlorothiazide and oral contraceptives in healthy volunteers.