Candesartan

Candesartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker, has gained FDA approval for the effective management of hypertension in adults. Initially present in its pro-drug form, candesartan cilexetil, this medication undergoes hydrolysis within the gastrointestinal tract during absorption, leading to its activation. Beyond its FDA-approved indication, candesartan is frequently employed off-label in the treatment of various conditions, including cerebrovascular accident or stroke, diabetic nephropathy, left ventricular hypertrophy, and migraines. This educational activity systematically explores the drug's mechanism of action, adverse event profile, toxicity, dosing, pharmacodynamics, and monitoring aspects. Clinicians will gain the knowledge essential for the judicious utilization of candesartan when clinically indicated.