indication

For the treatment of hypertension.

pharmacology

Forasartan, a specific angiotensin II antagonist, is used alone or with other antihypertensive agents to treat hypertension. By inhibiting angiotensin II receptors, this drug leads to a decrease in sodium reabsorption (which decreases water content of blood) and a decrease in vasoconstriction. Combined, this has the effect of lowering blood pressure.

mechanism of action

Forasartan competes with angiotensin II for binding at the AT₁ receptor subtype. As angiotensin II is a vasoconstrictor which also stimulates the synthesis and release of aldosterone, blockage of its effects results in a decreases in systemic vascular resistance. Also, since angiotensin causes vasoconstriction, the inhibition of this receptor decreases vasoconstriction, which consequently also decreases vascular resistnace.

drug interactions

Amiloride: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Lithium: The ARB increases serum levels of lithium

Potassium: Increased risk of hyperkalemia

Triamterene: Increased risk of hyperkalemia