Inhibition of angiotensin II-induced facilitation of sympathetic neurotransmission in the pithed rat: a comparison between losartan, irbesartan, telmisartan and captopril

Abstract

We conclude that, in the pithed rat model, the effects of stimulation of the thoraco-lumbar spinal cord on DBP are counteracted by blockade of presynaptically located AT1 receptors. The order of potency concerning sympatico-inhibition is telmisartan > losartan > irbesartan. Regarding the inhibition of angiotensin II-induced facilitation of sympathetic neurotransmission, marked differences were observed between selective AT1 blockade and ACE inhibition. The finding that all three AT1 blockers cause less than maximal inhibition in their highest doses, as opposed to captopril, suggests that this is a class effect of the AT1 antagonists.