Antihypertensive drugs influencing the renin-angiotensinaldosterone system in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Hypertension has been shown to be one of the most important comorbidities associated with diabetes mellitus (DM), contributing to significant macro- and microvascular complications and death. Scientific articles published in the Hinari, PubMed database regarding antihypertensive therapy with renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) inhibitors in patients with DM were selected and analyzed. Hypertension and DM have common pathophysiological features responsible for cardiovascular events and impaired glucose metabolism. Antihypertensive therapy in patients with DM involves the use of first-line drugs (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors; angiotensin receptor blockers; calcium channel blockers; beta-adrenoblockers; diuretics), alone and/or in combination and with strict monitoring of electrolyte and metabolic disturbances. The efficacy of the groups of drugs with influence on RAAS has been shown to be determined by pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties associated with individual patient characteristics. Optimal control of hypertension and DM has been shown to be essential for the prevention of cardiovascular and metabolic complications.