[Pharma-clinics. Medication of the month. Telmisartan (Micardis)]

Telmisartan is a new non peptide angiotensin II receptor antagonist which selectively and insurmountably inhibits the angiotensin II AT1 receptor subtype without affecting other receptor systems involved in cardiovascular regulation. In the treatment of essential hypertension, it shows a dose-dependent activity within the dose range of 20 to 80 mg per day. The maximum effect is obtained by 80 mg per day and it is very close to that seen with larger dosages. Telmisartan has an extremely long half life of 20 to 30 hours and its efficacy is maintained throughout the 24 hour period after one single daily intake. Telmisartan is excreted almost exclusively in the feces (99%). Side-effects are comparable to placebo.