Teveten (eprosartan mesylate plus hydrochlorothiazide)

Teveten HCT, a combination of eprosartan mesylate and hydrochlorothiazide, has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure). Eprosartan mesylate works by blocking the angiotensin II receptor. The hormone angiotensin II plays a role in hypertension by causing blood vessels to constrict, which raises blood pressure. By blocking the effects of angiotensin II, eprosartan mesylate prevents this pressure increase. Hydrochlorothiazide is also an anti-hypertensive compound; however, the way in which thiazides produce this effect is unknown.

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, it is estimated that one in every four American adults has hypertension. Hypertension can be defined as a sustained elevation of the force of blood against the walls of the arteries. The first line of treatment for hypertension is changing unhealthy lifestyle habits; if this is not sufficient, blood pressure medications may be utilized.

Side effects reported with eprosartan mesylate use in clinical trials include:

• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Rhinitis
• Pharyngitis (inflammation of the pharynx)
• Cough
• Fatigue
• Abdominal pain
• Joint pain

Angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor, is the principal pressor agent of the renin-angiotensin system. Angiotensin II also stimulates aldosterone synthesis and secretion by the adrenal cortex, cardiac contraction, renal resorption of sodium, activity of the sympathetic nervous system, and smooth muscle cell growth. Eprosartan blocks the vasoconstrictor and aldosterone-secreting effects of angiotensin II by selectively blocking the binding of angiotensin II to the AT1 receptor found in many tissues (e.g., vascular smooth muscle, adrenal gland). (from Teveten Prescribing Information)

For more information on hypertension, please visit the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.