Angiotensin receptor blockers side effects comparison
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Common Side Effects of Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs): Headache, Dizziness, and More
Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) such as valsartan, candesartan, and losartan are widely used to treat hypertension. The most frequently reported side effects across these medications include headache, dizziness, hypotension (low blood pressure), hyperkalemia (high potassium), nausea, upper respiratory tract infections, nasopharyngitis, and fatigue. These side effects are generally mild, rarely fatal, and seldom lead to discontinuation of therapy. Overall, the safety and tolerability profiles of ARBs are considered among the best for antihypertensive drugs, with little difference in the side effect profiles between valsartan, candesartan, and losartan .
Comparison of ARBs: Valsartan, Candesartan, and Losartan
When directly comparing valsartan, candesartan, and losartan, studies show that the side effect profiles are very similar. The most common adverse reactions—such as headache, dizziness, and fatigue—occur at similar rates among these drugs. Serious side effects are rare and do not differ significantly between these ARBs .
Losartan Versus Other ARBs: Efficacy and Renal Side Effects
Some studies have compared losartan to other ARBs in terms of both blood pressure control and renal side effects. Patients switched from other ARBs to losartan experienced slightly higher blood pressure and a small but statistically significant increase in serum creatinine, suggesting a minor impact on kidney function. However, serum potassium levels remained unchanged. Other ARBs may control hypertension more effectively than losartan, but the difference in side effects, especially regarding kidney function, is minimal .
ARBs Versus ACE Inhibitors: Side Effect Profile
ARBs are often compared to angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs). Both drug classes have similar efficacy in lowering blood pressure and reducing cardiovascular events. However, ARBs consistently have fewer side effects than ACEIs. Notably, ARBs are much less likely to cause cough and angioedema, which are more common with ACEIs. Serious side effects with ARBs, such as renal failure, liver damage, or severe allergic reactions, are very rare 34689.
ARBs in Special Populations: Dialysis and Chronic Kidney Disease
In patients on dialysis or with chronic kidney disease, ARBs have a side effect profile similar to other antihypertensive agents, including ACEIs. The risk of adverse events is not increased with ARBs, and they do not induce extra risk of side effects compared to other treatments. Both ARBs and ACEIs help slow the decline of residual kidney function in these patients 57.
Rare but Serious Side Effects and Contraindications
While ARBs are generally well tolerated, rare but serious side effects can occur, including angioedema, anemia, liver damage, and renal failure. ARBs are not considered safe during pregnancy, in patients with bilateral renal artery stenosis, or in those with severe renal or hepatic impairment .
Conclusion
Overall, angiotensin receptor blockers such as valsartan, candesartan, and losartan have very similar and favorable side effect profiles. The most common side effects are mild and rarely require stopping the medication. Compared to ACE inhibitors, ARBs have fewer side effects, especially regarding cough and angioedema. Serious adverse reactions are rare, and ARBs are considered among the safest antihypertensive medications available.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic