Candesartan Cilexetil: A Review of its Pharmacology and Therapeutic Uses

Candesartan is classified as an angiotensin II receptor type 1 antagonist. Angiotensin II receptor type 1 antagonists are widely used in treatment of diseases like hypertension, heart failure, myocardial infarction and diabetic nephropathy. Candesartan is an orally active lipophilic drug and possesses rapid oral absorption. It causes reduction in blood pressure and is used in treatment of hypertension. It is also used in the treatment of congestive heart failure and given as prophylaxis to reduce the severity and duration of migraine. Candesartan cilexetil, a prodrug of Candesartan, is available in the market under the trade names- Blopress®, Atacand®, Amias® and Ratacand®. Candesartan is also available in a combination formulation with a low dose thiazide diuretic, invariably hydrochlorothiazide, to achieve an additive antihypertensive effect. This paper reviews the pharmacological and pharmaceutical properties of Candesartan. Candesartan could be an attractive target for the generic industries.