Candesartan in the treatment of hypertension: what have we learnt in the last decade?

INTRODUCTION: Although all of the first-line antihypertensive drugs effectively reduce blood pressure, there are some conditions that may favor the use of angiotensin receptor blockers over others, such as left ventricular hypertrophy, microalbuminuria, renal dysfunction, diabetes, or metabolic syndrome, among others. AREAS COVERED: This manuscript reviewed the data supporting the use of candesartan cilexetil in hypertensive population with a special focus on its efficacy and safety. For this purpose, a search on MEDLINE and EMBASE databases was performed. The MEDLINE and EMBASE search included both medical subject headings (MeSH) and keywords including: candesartan OR angiotensin receptor blockers OR renin angiotensin system AND hypertension treatment. References of the retrieved articles were also screened for additional studies. There were no language restrictions. EXPERT OPINION: Candesartan, a long-acting angiotensin receptor antagonist, has been shown to be an effective and well-tolerated therapy in the entire spectrum of hypertensive patients, including those at higher risk, such as those with diabetes, metabolic syndrome, left ventricular hypertrophy, or microalbuminuria.