ARB Medications: What They Are, How They Work, and Which Ones Work Best

When your blood pressure stays too high, your heart and arteries work harder than they should. That’s where ARB medications, angiotensin II receptor blockers that relax blood vessels by blocking a hormone called angiotensin II. Also known as angiotensin receptor blockers, these drugs help your blood flow more easily, reducing strain on your heart and lowering your risk of stroke and kidney damage. Unlike some older blood pressure pills, ARBs don’t cause that dry cough that comes with ACE inhibitors — which is why many people switch to them.

They’re not all the same. Losartan, one of the first and most studied ARBs, is often the go-to because it’s cheap, effective, and has been used safely for decades. Valsartan, another common option, works just as well and is often paired with other meds for stronger control. Then there’s Irbesartan, which some studies show may offer extra kidney protection for people with diabetes. These aren’t just names on a label — they’re tools your doctor picks based on your body’s response, your other health issues, and your budget.

ARBs are often used when ACE inhibitors don’t work or cause side effects, but they’re also prescribed alone, especially for older adults or those with heart failure or diabetic kidney disease. They don’t fix your diet or stress, but they take the pressure off your system so your body can heal. You’ll usually take them once a day, and they work quietly in the background — no jitters, no crashes. Just steadier blood pressure.

What you won’t find in most doctor’s offices is a full side-by-side breakdown of how each ARB compares in cost, effectiveness, or long-term outcomes. That’s where this collection comes in. Below, you’ll see real comparisons between ARBs and other blood pressure drugs, stories from people managing hypertension with these meds, and clear guides on what to watch for — from dizziness to potassium levels. Whether you’re just starting out or switching meds, these posts give you the facts without the fluff.