Angiotensin 2 receptor blockers are a type of medicine used to treat high blood pressure. This type of medicine also may be called angiotensin II receptor blockers.

Angiotensin is a chemical in the body that narrows the blood vessels. When blood vessels are narrow, blood pressure can go up.

Angiotensin 2 receptor blockers stop the action of angiotensin 2. As a result, the medicine helps relax the veins and arteries in the body, lowering blood pressure.

Several angiotensin 2 receptor blockers are available. Which one is best for you depends on your health and the condition being treated.

Examples of angiotensin 2 receptor blockers include:

• Azilsartan (Edarbi).
• Candesartan (Atacand).
• Irbesartan (Avapro).
• Losartan (Cozaar).
• Olmesartan (Benicar).
• Telmisartan (Micardis).
• Valsartan (Diovan).

In addition to treating high blood pressure, angiotensin 2 receptor blockers may prevent, treat or improve symptoms in people who have:

• Chronic kidney disease.
• Heart failure.
• Kidney failure due to diabetes.

Possible side effects of angiotensin 2 receptor blockers can include:

• Dizziness.
• Too much potassium in the blood.
• Swelling of the skin due to extra fluid.

Some people taking the angiotensin 2 receptor blocker olmesartan (Benicar) have reported digestive problems. Talk to your health care team if you have severe diarrhea or lose a lot of weight while taking this medicine.

Don't take angiotensin 2 receptor blockers if you're pregnant or you plan to become pregnant. The medicines can harm a developing baby while growing in the womb.

Talk to your health care team if you have any questions about the medicines you take.