Cerebroprotective effects of angiotensin II receptor blockers: candesartan focus

The article is devoted to the role of antihypertensive drugs in cerebroprotection, importance of such drugs in reducing the risk of stroke and cognitive disorders in patients with arterial hypertension (AH). The article provides the definition, classification and pathogenetic mechanisms of cognitive impairment in elevated blood pressure (BP). It also presents epidemiological characteristics of the incidence of stroke and cognitive disorders in hypertension. The influence of elevated blood pressure as a factor increasing the risk of cerebrovascular complications is considered. Particular attention is paid to the issue of a sharp rise in BP in the early morning hours, which is typical for patients with AH. The clinical significance of excessive early morning hypertension is discussed. The authors emphasize the difficulties and importance of correcting the morning rises in blood pressure as one of the objectives of antihypertensive therapy. The article presents data on the distinctive features of the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of candesartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker with an extremely long-term action. The clinical efficacy of candesartan in the treatment of AH and the risk of cerebrovascular complications, especially stroke and cognitive impairment, has been demonstrated from the point of view of evidence-based medicine.