Candesartan (Atacand) Drug for High Blood Pressure: Use, Side Effects, Interactions

Candesartan
(Atacand, United States and Canada)

Use:

Candesartan or Atacand is indicated for high blood pressure or hypertension.

How It Works:

Candesartan or Atacand is a angiotensin II receptor antagonist which blocks the binding of angiotensin II to type 1 angiotensin II receptors, which means that angiotensin can not elicit its vasoconstriction actions. Blood pressure is lowered.

Side Effects:

Candesartan or Atacand is well tolerated. Cough is a side effect associated with ACE inhibitors, but by affecting the angiotensin system in the way it does, Candesartan or Atacand avoids this cough side effect.

Cautions for People:

Candesartan or Atacand should not be used in pregnant women because it is toxic to the developing fetus.

Drug Interactions:

Candesartan or Atacand is used in blood pressure control and can be used in combination with other drugs which also lower blood pressure, but care must be taken to ensure the blood pressure is not lowered too much so that postural hypotension results.

Further Reading:

Am J Cardiol 1998;82:961

Added to Virtual Drugstore January 1999.

The relevant product monographs must be regarded as the appropriate sources of prescribing information.