Angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB, sartan)
ATC code: C09CA04 (Irbesartan)
A selective and competitive angiotensin II AT1 receptor antagonist. Reduces peripheral vascular resistance, aldosterone secretion, and sodium reabsorption. Among ARBs, has the longest half-life (11–15 hours) – stable BP control with once-daily dosing. No CYP metabolism – minimal drug interactions.
First line
First-line for hypertension per 2024. Dose 150–300 mg once daily. Particularly effective in patients with type 2 diabetes and nephropathy – IDNT (2001) showed 33% slowing of diabetic nephropathy progression vs amlodipine.
Sources
The drug is promoted for these uses outside international guidelines. Each entry below is analyzed against AEMPS, FDA, EMA, Cochrane and major RCTs.
Not recommended
Irbesartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker. It is prescribed for hypertension and diabetic nephropathy in type 2 diabetes ( 2023, KDIGO 2024, SEH-LELHA). In anti-aging regimens, irbesartan is given to healthy normotensives to protect vessels and rejuvenate them. In people with normal blood pressure and no diabetic nephropathy, no clinical studies of prophylactic use exist. The drug can cause dizziness, hyperkalemia, acute kidney injury, and teratogenicity (contraindicated in pregnancy). If irbesartan was prescribed to a healthy person, consider seeking a second opinion.
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Absolute contraindication. T2 and T3 use causes oligohydramnios, lung and kidney hypoplasia, limb contractures, fetal demise.
Not used during lactation. Enalapril or captopril with more data are preferred.
Reference information, not a clinical decision. Discuss feeding pauses or changes with your physician or an IBCLC.
Irbesartan is evaluated for the following indications with varying evidence strength: Hypertension (evidence tier A), Anti-aging and longevity (evidence tier F). See the full indication matrix with dosing and citations above on this page.
Common side effects of Irbesartan (≥ 1 in 100): Dizziness, Fatigue, Hyperkalemia, Elevated creatinine, Headache. See the Safety section for uncommon and serious reactions.
FDA category D. Absolute contraindication. T2 and T3 use causes oligohydramnios, lung and kidney hypoplasia, limb contractures, fetal demise.
Not used during lactation. Enalapril or captopril with more data are preferred.
Irbesartan is contraindicated in: Irbesartan hypersensitivity; Pregnancy (all trimesters); Severe hepatic impairment; Combination with aliskiren in diabetes or CKD with eGFR under 60. Full list in the Safety section.