Candesartan
Candesartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and to reduce cardiovascular events in certain patients. It works by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a natural substance that causes blood vessels to narrow, thereby allowing blood to flow more easily and reducing strain on the heart. This medication is typically prescribed when lifestyle changes alone are insufficient to control blood pressure.
Candesartan is a blood pressure medication that blocks angiotensin II to relax blood vessels and reduce heart strain.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- C09CA06
- RxNorm
- 214354
- Generic
- Candesartan
- Class
- atc-c09
- Brands
- Atacand, Atacand HCT
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Candesartan is primarily used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) in adults and children. It is also prescribed for heart failure to improve survival and reduce hospitalizations, and may be used to reduce cardiovascular events in patients with left ventricular dysfunction or those at high cardiovascular risk.
Candesartan blocks angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptors, preventing angiotensin II from binding. Since angiotensin II normally causes vasoconstriction, stimulates aldosterone release, and promotes cardiac remodeling, blocking its action results in vasodilation, reduced aldosterone secretion, and decreased blood pressure with less cardiac stress.
Candesartan should not be used during pregnancy, particularly in the second and third trimesters, as it can cause fetal injury. Common side effects include dizziness, headache, and upper respiratory infections. Patients with bilateral renal artery stenosis or a history of angioedema should avoid this medication. Blood pressure and kidney function should be monitored during treatment.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed July 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy