Drugs that end with -TAN belong to which category?

Drugs that end with the suffix -TAN are classified as Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). These medications work by blocking the action of Angiotensin II, a peptide that causes blood vessels to constrict and produce aldosterone, leading to increased blood pressure. By inhibiting the effects of Angiotensin II, ARBs help relax blood vessels, reduce blood pressure, and alleviate the strain on the heart.

This class of medications is commonly used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and heart failure, providing an alternative for patients who may not tolerate ACE inhibitors well, particularly those who experience a cough or angioedema as side effects. Recognizing the suffix -TAN is valuable for identifying these drugs in clinical practice, as it indicates their mechanism and therapeutic use.