How It Works
Direct renin inhibitors block the enzyme
renin from triggering a process that helps regulate blood pressure. As a
result, blood vessels relax and widen, making it easier for blood to flow
through the vessels, which lowers blood pressure.
Direct renin
inhibitors, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, and angiotensin II
receptor blockers (ARBs) all target the same process that narrows blood
vessels. But each type of medicine blocks a different part of the
process.
Aliskiren can be used alone or in combination with a
diuretic or other medicines for high blood pressure.
Why It Is Used
Direct renin inhibitors are used to
lower
.
How Well It Works
Direct renin inhibitors can lower
blood pressure in people who have mild to moderate high blood pressure. This
medicine is effective when used alone or in combination with other medicines
for high blood pressure.
Side Effects
All medicines have side effects. But many people don't feel the side effects, or they are able to deal with them. Ask your pharmacist about the side effects of each medicine you take. Side effects are also listed in the information that comes with your medicine.
Here are some important things to think about:
- Usually the benefits of the medicine are more important than any minor side effects.
- Side effects may go away after you take the medicine for a while.
- If side effects still bother you and you wonder if you should keep taking the medicine, call your doctor. He or she may be able to lower your dose or change your medicine. Do not suddenly quit taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to.
Call 911 or other emergency services right away if you have:
- Trouble breathing.
- Hives.
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Common side effects of this medicine include:
- Diarrhea.
- Cough.
- Dizziness.
- Headache.
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug
Reference is not available in all systems.)
What To Think About
Direct renin inhibitors are a newer type of medicine for high blood pressure. So doctors don't know about safety after a long time or how well they work after a long time.
Before you take a direct renin
inhibitor, tell your doctor if you have kidney problems. People with kidney
problems may need to have regular blood tests to make sure this medicine does
not reduce kidney function.