Hypersensitivity Reactions to ARBs: How Common?
Among patients in whom angioedema developed while they were being treated with an ARB, 50% had previously had a similar reaction to angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, according to one report.
Angioedema developed in a white male patient who was taking an angiotensin-receptor blocker (ARB). How frequent is such a reaction?
- MD
Among patients in whom angioedema developed while they were being treated with an ARB, 50% had previously had a similar reaction to angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, according to one report.1 The overall frequency of angioedema with ACE inhibitors is very low; however, it is important not to prescribe ARBs for patients who have a history of angioedema in reaction to ACE inhibitors.
- Reza Abdi, MD
Instructor in Medicine
Harvard Medical School
Cambridge, Mass
References:
REFERENCE:1. Van Rinjnsoever EW, Kwee-Zuiderwijk WJM, Feenstra J. Angioneurotic edema attributed to the use of losartan. Arch Intern Med. 1998;158:2063-2065.
