[Non-peptide antagonists to angiotensin II receptors. A review]

The renin-angiotensin system is the most important hormone system in the control of blood pressure and electrolyte homeostasis. Pharmacological blockade of the system by means of beta-blockers or ACE-inhibitors is a major tool in the treatment of hypertension and congestive heart failure. Inhibition of the binding of angiotensin to its receptor is, however, theoretically a more direct and selective blocking method. Recently, a series of potent non-peptide antagonists have been developed, which are active when given orally and appear to be promising drug candidates. The clinical and theoretical implications of this discovery are reviewed based upon the present knowledge of the renin-angiotensin system and the available methods for therapeutic intervention in the system.