Antagonists of angiotensin II receptors, or blockers of AT1 receptors is one of the new groups of antihypertensive drugs. It unites drugs that modulate the functioning of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) through interaction with angiotensin receptors.

The RAAS plays an important role in regulating blood pressure, the pathogenesis of hypertension and chronic heart failure (CHF), as well as a number of other diseases. The angiotensin (angio — vascular and tensio — a strain) — peptides produced in the body from angiotenzinoguena, which is a glycoprotein (ALPHA2-globulin) in blood plasma, which is synthesized in the liver. Under the influence of renin (an enzyme produced in juxtaglomerular apparatus of the kidney) polypeptide angiotensinogen non-Pressor activity, hydrolyses, forming angiotensin I is a biologically inactive Decapeptide, who are easily exposed to the further transformations. Under the action of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) produced in lungs, angiotensin I is converted into the octapeptide — angiotensin II, a highly active endogenous pressory connection.

Angiotensin II is the main effector peptide of the RAAS. He has a strong vasoconstrictor effect, increases in systemic vascular resistance, causes a rapid increase in blood pressure. In addition, it stimulates secretion of aldosterone, and in large concentrations — increases secretion of antidiuretic hormone (increased reabsorption of sodium and water, hypervolemia) and causes sympathetic activation. All of these effects contribute to the development of hypertension.