Research Area: Cancer
Biological Activity:
Olmesartan medoxomil (Benicar) is a compound which is hydrolyzed to olmesartan that is a selective AT1 subtype angiotensin II receptor antagonist.Olmesartan medoxomil (Benicar) was converted to olmesartan  during absorption from the gastrointestinal tract. Olmesartan is indicated for the treatment of hypertension. It may be used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents. Olmesartan medoxomil (Benicar) exerts its pharmacological functions via blocking the binding of angiotensin II to the AT1 receptors in vascular muscle; it is therefore independent of angiotensin II synthesis pathways, unlike ACE inhibitors. By blocking the binding rather than the synthesis of angiotensin II, olmesartan prevents the negative regulatory feedback on renin secretion. As a result of this blockage, olmesartan attenuates vasoconstriction and the secretion of aldosterone. Olmesartan lowers blood pressure by producing vasodilation, and decreasing peripheral resistance.