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AT1 blockers and uric acid metabolism: are there relevant differences?
Juan G Puig1, Rosa Torres, Luis Miguel Ruilope
1Divisions of Internal Medicine, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain. jgarciapuig@havegalia.com
Summary
Losartan increased uric acid excretion in hypertensive patients, but did not significantly lower serum urate levels. Eprosartan did not affect uric acid excretion or serum urate concentrations.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Pharmacology
- Hypertension
Background:
- Elevated serum urate is common in essential hypertension.
- Previous studies on losartan's effect on uric acid metabolism are conflicting.
- The impact of angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) on uric acid metabolism requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effects of losartan and eprosartan on uric acid metabolism in hypertensive patients.
- To determine if losartan increases urinary uric acid excretion.
- To assess changes in serum urate levels with losartan and eprosartan treatment.
Main Methods:
- A 4-week, randomized, double-blind, parallel study.
- 58 patients with mild to moderate essential hypertension were included.
- Losartan (50 mg/day) and eprosartan (600 mg/day) were administered.
Main Results:
- Losartan significantly increased 24-hour urinary uric acid excretion by 25%.
- Neither losartan nor eprosartan substantially altered serum urate concentrations.
- Both drugs showed similar changes in uric acid to creatinine ratio, with a significant increase for losartan.
Conclusions:
- Losartan enhances uric acid excretion in hypertensive patients.
- Eprosartan does not influence uric acid excretion.
- Neither losartan nor eprosartan significantly modify serum urate concentrations in hypertensive patients.