Cancer Terms

Losartan

Cancer Terms -> Drugs and Chemicals -> Pharmacologic Substance -> Agent Affecting Cardiovascular System -> Antihypertensive Agent -> Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonist -> Losartan

Losartan Definition

The potassium salt form of losartan, a non-peptide angiotensin II antagonist with antihypertensive activity. Losartan potassium selectively and competitively blocks the binding of angiotensin II to the angiotensin I (AT1) receptor. Angiotensin II, formed from angiotensin I by angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), stimulates the adrenal cortex to synthesize and secrete aldosterone, which decreases the excretion of sodium and increases the excretion of potassium. Angiotensin II also acts as a vasoconstrictor in vascular smooth muscle. Losartan potassium, by blocking the binding of angiotensin II to the AT 1 receptor, promotes vasodilatation and decreases the effects of aldosterone.

Losartan Synonyms

Losartan, 2-Butyl-4-chloro-1-[[2'-(1H-tetrazol-5-yl)[1,1'-biphenyl]-4-yl]methyl]-1H-imidazole-5-methanol, LOSARTAN

Terms in Losartan category



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