Irbesartan is commonly prescribed for the treatment of diabetic nephropathy or high blood pressure. Although it cannot cure these conditions, it can control high blood pressure and slow down the progression of diabetic nephropathy. Potential side effects of irbesartan include dizziness, diarrhea, fatigue, and indigestion. The medication comes in a tablet form and is available in several strengths.
Irbesartan (
Avapro®) is a prescription medicine that has been licensed to treat several conditions related to the heart and blood vessels. It is part of a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor blockers, or ARBs for short.
Irbesartan is manufactured and sold through a partnership between two pharmaceutical companies -- Bristol-Myers Squibb Company and Sanofi-Aventis.
Uses of irbesartan include:
However, irbesartan is not a cure for high
blood pressure or diabetic nephropathy, nor has it been approved for use in children.
How Does Irbesartan Work?
As mentioned, irbesartan is part of a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor blockers.
As the name implies, irbesartan blocks angiotensin II receptors. This decreases the effectiveness of a chemical known as angiotensin II, which normally causes blood vessels to narrow (constrict). By blocking the effects of angiotensin II, irbesartan causes blood vessels to relax, which can
lower blood pressure.
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