Which drug class does valsartan belong to?

Valsartan belongs to the class of medications known as Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs). This classification is significant because ARBs work by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a hormone that causes blood vessels to constrict and blood pressure to increase. By inhibiting this action, valsartan promotes vasodilation, leading to lower blood pressure and decreased workload on the heart.

Understanding the mechanism of ARBs is crucial for comprehending their role in managing conditions such as hypertension and heart failure. This distinction from other drug classes, such as ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, and beta-blockers, underscores the specific therapeutic action of valsartan and how it fits into a comprehensive treatment plan for cardiovascular health. Each of the other classes mentioned has different mechanisms and uses, differentiating valsartan's pharmacological profile as an ARB.