If you or someone you care for needs blood pressure control, ARBs are a common choice. ARB stands for angiotensin II receptor blocker. They lower blood pressure by blocking angiotensin II, a hormone that narrows blood vessels. Compared with older drugs, ARBs often cause fewer side effects and are easier for many people to tolerate.
Common ARBs you’ll see written on prescriptions include losartan, valsartan, irbesartan, candesartan, olmesartan, and telmisartan. They all work the same way but differ in dose strength, how long they last in the body, and certain benefits. For example, telmisartan has a long half-life so it can work well as a once-daily pill, while losartan may be preferred when cost is a big concern since generic forms are widely available.
Choice usually depends on a few practical things: other health conditions, how well one drug controls your blood pressure, side effects you experience, and drug cost or insurance coverage. For people with diabetes and protein in the urine, several ARBs show kidney-protective effects—doctors often favor those. In heart failure, specific ARBs may be recommended as part of a broader treatment plan.
Pregnancy is a clear exception: ARBs should never be used during pregnancy because they can harm the fetus. If you’re planning pregnancy, talk with your doctor about switching to a safer alternative.
Most people tolerate ARBs well. Common side effects include dizziness, lightheadedness, and sometimes elevated potassium (hyperkalemia). Unlike ACE inhibitors, ARBs are less likely to cause a cough. Still, you’ll need routine blood tests after starting or changing doses to check kidney function and potassium levels. If you feel faint or notice swelling, contact your provider.
ARBs interact with certain drugs—potassium supplements, some potassium-sparing diuretics, and certain blood pressure medicines can raise potassium too much. Tell your pharmacist and doctor about every pill and supplement you take.
Sometimes people switch between ARBs or from an ACE inhibitor to an ARB. That’s okay when guided by a clinician. Dose equivalence isn’t one-size-fits-all, so a provider will adjust dosing and monitor you for side effects during the switch.
If cost or access is an issue, generic ARBs like losartan and valsartan are affordable and effective. When buying medication online, use licensed pharmacies and never skip discussing changes with your prescriber.
Want to learn more? Read individual reviews and comparisons of popular ARBs, plus articles on alternatives like ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, and thiazide diuretics. Each person’s best option depends on medical history, test results, and lifestyle—so keep the conversation open with your care team.
Looking for options beyond Losartan for managing blood pressure? This guide breaks down seven reliable alternatives. You'll get real comparisons, pros and cons, and tips for choosing the right medication. Each alternative is easy to understand, so you can have a better conversation with your doctor. Reading this could help you make a smarter decision for your health.
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