Description: Aliskiren is the first in a class of drugs known as direct renin inhibitors. It is an orally active medication that helps lower blood pressure. It is available as a stand-alone treatment or in combination with other medications.

Indications: The primary indication for Aliskiren is the treatment of essential hypertension (high blood pressure) in adults. By lowering blood pressure, it helps to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events such as strokes and heart attacks.

Mechanism of Action: Aliskiren works by targeting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), a hormonal system that regulates blood pressure.

• It acts as a direct renin inhibitor, meaning it binds to and blocks the activity of the enzyme renin.
• Renin’s normal function is to convert a protein called angiotensinogen into angiotensin I.
• By inhibiting renin, Aliskiren prevents the formation of angiotensin I and, consequently, the subsequent production of angiotensin II, a powerful chemical that causes blood vessels to constrict and blood pressure to rise.
• This action leads to vasodilation (the widening of blood vessels) and reduced fluid retention, which collectively helps to lower blood pressure.