Side Effects of Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers

Angiotensin II receptor blockers are medications most commonly prescribed to treat high blood pressure. According to the Mayo Clinic, they can also be used to treat scleroderma (thickening of the arteries) and kidney disease. Like all medications, angiotensin II receptor blockers have potential side effects that may require medical attention.

Common Side Effects

• According to the Mayo Clinic, side effects of angiotensin II receptor blockers that are considered common but not serious include headache, dizziness and nasal congestion. These symptoms do not normally require medical treatment. If, however, they reach the point where they are intolerable, a patient should consult a physician.

Serious Side Effects

• Serious side effects associated with angiotensin II receptor blockers include intense diarrhea and upper respiratory tract infection. A patient experiencing these symptoms should consult with a physician before continuing prescribed doses. An adjustment made be made in the dosing levels, or the physician may choose to have the patient discontinue the medication.

Severe Side Effects

• Severe side effects associated with angiotensin II receptor blockers that require immediate medical attention include kidney or liver failure, a sudden drop in the number of white blood cells and angiodema (hive-like swelling beneath the skin). Treatment for these conditions should not be delayed.

Existing Medical Conditions

• According to PDRHealth, before using an angiotensin II receptor blocker, a patient should advise her physician of existing medical conditions such as diabetes, gout, kidney or liver disease, high cholesterol, asthma, systemic lupus or a history of allergic reactions to medications. Evidence has shown that angiotensin II receptor blockers can cause injury to a fetus, especially when taken during the second and third trimesters. Therefore, this category of medication should not be taken by women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, nor should it be taken by women who are breastfeeding.

Interactions and Warnings

• Angiotensin II receptor blockers have the potential to adversely interact with other categories of blood pressure medications such as beta blockers and calcium channel blockers, as well as with other medications including corticosteroids, insulin, diuretics, barbiturates, narcotics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen. Patients should limit their salt intake to reduce water retention that could diminish the effectiveness of the medication. Angiotensin II receptor blockers may make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, so patients taking the medication are advised to avoid extended exposure to direct sunlight and to use sunscreen when outdoors.