How Do ARB-CCB Combos Work?

Angiotensin receptor blocker/calcium channel blocker (ARB/CCB) combination drugs are used for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure). Hypertension is one of the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, and stroke.

ARBs or angiotensin II receptor antagonists work by reducing the activity of angiotensin II (a hormone that narrows your blood vessels and contributes to salt and water retention in the body). They block the receptors that the hormone acts on, particularly AT1 receptors, which are found in the heart, blood vessels and kidneys. Blocking the activity of angiotensin II helps to lower blood pressure.

CCBs also known as calcium channel antagonists work by blocking the entry of calcium into the cells through voltage-gated calcium channels present in the smooth muscle of arteries. This causes dilation of the arteries, an increase in the free flow of blood, and a subsequent reduction in blood pressure.

• ARB/CCB combos may be administered simultaneously with other antihypertensive agents to treat hypertension (high blood pressure).

Side effects associated with ARB/CCB combos include:

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Abdominal pain
• Flu-like symptoms
• Swelling of hands, feet, and ankles
• Muscle cramps or leg pain
• Back pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Flushing (face turns red as blood accumulates because of widening of capillaries beneath the skin)
• Skin rash
• Hair loss
• Changes in the volume of urine
• Weight gain
• Loss of movement
• Hyperkalemia (high potassium levels in the blood)
• Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats)
• Serious allergic reactions
• Decrease in white blood cells and platelets
• Angioedema (swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat, life-threatening in some cases as it may obstruct breathing)

The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure these drugs do not cause any harm when you take them along with other medicines. Never stop taking your medication and never change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor.

Generic and brand names of ARB/CCB combos drugs include:

• Amlodipine/olmesartan (Azor)
• Telmisartan/amlodipine (Twynsta)
• Valsartan/amlodipine (Exforge)