The use of aldosterone receptor blockers in the treatment of hypertension

The emerging role of aldosterone in hypertension and cardiovascular diseases has prompted a renewal of interest in therapeutic approaches designed to interfere with the action of this mineralocorticoid hormone. While spironolactone has long been used for this purpose, side effects, largely attributable to the interaction of this agent with non-mineralocorticoid steroid receptors, has reduced the enthusiasm for its use. Eplerenone, a specific aldosterone receptor blocker with a lower incidence of the sex hormone-related side effects than spironolactone, has been used in several recent clinical trials in hypertension and congestive heart failure. This review will highlight the major findings from these studies.