Recent progress in the treatment of cardiovascular disease using olmesartan

Angiotensin II (Ang II) evokes inflammatory responses and plays a central role in atherosclerosis mediated by Ang II type 1 (AT₁) receptor. AT₁ receptor blockers (ARBs) prevent the diverse effects of Ang II. Unique molecule-specific, or off-target effects of ARBs are due to their slightly different structures, although all ARBs have common, or class, effects. In nonsignificant coronary stenotic lesions, it is important that we use aggressive medical treatments using ARBs in addition to statins and oral hypoglycemic agents, to induce the regression and stabilization of coronary plaque. This review focuses on current evidence regarding the molecule-specific effects of ARB olmesartan to prevent the increase in coronary atheroma volume.