NPTE Pharmacology Practice Test 2025 – All-in-One Guide to Master Your Exam Preparation!

Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) are commonly prescribed medications for the management of hypertension and heart failure. They work by selectively blocking the action of angiotensin II, a powerful vasoconstrictor, which helps to relax blood vessels and reduce blood pressure. Additionally, ARBs are beneficial in heart failure because they can improve cardiac output and reduce the workload on the heart, ultimately leading to better symptoms and outcomes for patients.

In the context of treating hypertension, lowering blood pressure helps to prevent the long-term complications associated with it, such as stroke and heart disease. In heart failure, ARBs can alleviate symptoms by preventing fluid retention and improving heart function. Their use has been supported by numerous clinical trials demonstrating their effectiveness in both conditions.

While beta-blockers are also effective in heart failure and are used to manage hypertension, they are not the best first-line treatment compared to ARBs for hypertension specifically. Corticosteroids are primarily anti-inflammatory agents and are not indicated for the treatment of hypertension or heart failure. Nitrates are primarily used for angina and acute heart failure management rather than long-term treatment of hypertension. Thus, ARBs stand out as a preferred option for both hypertension and heart failure management.