﻿ Telmisartan (Micardis) Drug Information - MedicineNet.com
telmisartan, Micardis  Pharmacy Author: Medical and Pharmacy
Editor:  GENERIC NAME: telmisartan  BRAND NAME: Micardis  DRUG
CLASS AND MECHANISM: Telmisartan is a member of a family of
drugs called angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), which
includes losartan (Cozaar), valsartan (Diovan), irbesartan
(Avapro), and candesartan (Atacand). Angiotensin, formed in the
blood by the action of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), is a
powerful chemical that attaches to angiotensin receptors found
in many tissues but primarily on muscle cells of blood vessels.
Angiotensin's attachment to the receptors causes muscle cells to
shorten and narrow the blood vessels (vasoconstrict), which
leads to an increase in blood pressure (hypertension).
Telmisartan blocks the angiotensin receptor. By blocking the
action of angiotensin, telmisartan widens blood vessels
(vasodilate) and reduces blood pressure. Telmisartan was
approved by the FDA in November 2000.    PREPARATIONS