Abstract
The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is a major regulatory system of cardiovascular and renal function. Many new aspects of this system have been revealed in recent years, leading to new therapeutic approaches. It's well known that RAS blocking agents have potent antiatherosclerotic effects, which are mediated by their antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, and oxidative stress lowering properties. Inhibitors of RAS are now first-line treatments for hypertensive target organ damage. Their effects are greater than expected by their ability to lower blood pressure. Angiotensin receptor blockers reduce the frequency of atrial fibrillation and stroke, are also able to prevent cardiovascular and renal events in diabetic patients. Thus, blockade of RAS represents one of the most important strategies in order to reduce cardiovascular risk.
MeSH terms
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Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / pharmacology
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Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / therapeutic use
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Angiotensin Receptor Antagonists*
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Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors / pharmacology
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Angiotensins / antagonists & inhibitors*
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Angiotensins / metabolism
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Atrial Fibrillation / drug therapy
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Atrial Fibrillation / physiopathology
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Atrial Fibrillation / prevention & control
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Cerebrovascular Circulation / drug effects*
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Cerebrovascular Circulation / physiology
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Humans
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Receptors, Angiotensin / metabolism
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Renin-Angiotensin System / drug effects*
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Renin-Angiotensin System / physiology*
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Stroke / metabolism
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Stroke / physiopathology*
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Stroke / prevention & control*
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Vasodilator Agents / pharmacology
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Vasodilator Agents / therapeutic use
Substances
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Adrenergic beta-Antagonists
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Angiotensin Receptor Antagonists
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Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors
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Angiotensins
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Receptors, Angiotensin
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Vasodilator Agents