Publication:

Azilsartan: the novel ARB with unique mechanism of action

Hypertension is attributed to be one of the major risk factors in the pathophysiology of ischemic heart disease, stroke, heart failure and renal dysfunction. Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are one of the first line drugs recommended for clinical use in hypertension by JNC 8. Azilsartan is the recent addition to this family of ARBs and is perceived as one of the potent antihypertensive drugs today. Azilsartan was developed by replacing the tetrazole ring in candesartan with a 5 member oxo-oxadiazole ring. In India Azisartan was recently approved by DCGI in December 2016 for use in hypertension. In various randomized, double blind clinical studies Azilsartan was found to be to be superior in terms of clinical efficacy over other ARBs like Candesartan, Olmesartan and Valsartan and angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor like Ramipril. In terms of safety profile Azilsartan appears to be equivalent to the currently available ARBs. Azilsartan due to its superior efficacy and comparative safety profile appear to be a new addition to the armamentarium in the treatment of hypertension.