Irbesartan (138402-11-6)

Molecular Formula: C25H28N6O

Molecular Weight: 428.529 g/mol

Systematic Name: 2-Butyl-3-{[2'-(2H-tetrazol-5-yl)-4-biphenylyl]methyl}-1,3-diazaspiro[4.4]non-1-en-4-one

Trade name(s): Avapro, Karvea

Physical Properties: white to off-white crystalline solid

The API expertise for producing Irbesartan is Synthetic Organic Chemistry.

For more information about Synthetic Organic Chemistry please click here

Irbesartan, structurally defined as a nonpeptide tetrazole derivative, is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) used primarily for the treatment of hypertension. Irbesartan can be used alone, but is often prescribed with other medications, e.g. hydrochlorothiazide (marketed as Avalide) to treat hypertension.

Irbesartan may also slow the advancement of diabetic nephropathy, a disease of the blood vessels within the kidneys; for this reason, the drug is also used to treat kidney disorders in patients having both type-II diabetes and hypertension.

The U.S. FDA has recently approved (April 2012) the first generic versions of irbesartan (brand name Avapro). Presently, irbesartan is manufactured through an efficient large-scale multi-step synthetic organic process starting from simple, commercially available (petrochemical) precursors.

Irbesartan and all ARB agents are primarily AT1-receptor antagonists'that is, the drug competes with angiotensin II for binding at the AT1-receptor subtype.

Irbesartan's inhibition of angiotensin II binding to the AT1 receptor leads to several effects including vasodilation, a reduction in secretion of vasopressin (a hormone involved in water retention), and reduction in production and secretion of aldosterone (a hormone involved in hypertension regulation). The resultant effect is a net decrease in blood pressure.