[A class of agents that act by selective inhibiting angiotensin II receptor activation in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Angiotensin II receptor antagonists binds to and block the activation of angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptors, thereby reduces production and secretion of aldosterone, amongst other actions. The combined effects result in reduction of blood pressure. Although this class of agents also are used in diabetic nephropathy (kidney damage due to diabetes) and congestive heart failure, it is primarily used for the treatment of hypertension where the patient is intolerant of ACE inhibitor therapy. ( NCI )]
UMLS (NCI) C0521942