Description

Aliskiren + Hydrochlorothiazide is a combination medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It contains two different drugs that work together to lower blood pressure. Aliskiren is the first in a class of drugs called direct renin inhibitors, while hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic, or “water pill.”

Indication

This product is indicated for the treatment of hypertension to lower blood pressure. Lowering blood pressure helps reduce the risk of strokes, heart attacks, and other cardiovascular events. It is often used in patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled with a single medication or as initial therapy in patients likely to need multiple drugs to reach their blood pressure goals.

Mechanism of Action

This medication has a dual mechanism of action due to its two components:

1. Aliskiren: It is a direct renin inhibitor. Renin is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), which regulates blood pressure. Aliskiren directly binds to renin and prevents it from converting angiotensinogen to angiotensin I. This inhibits the entire cascade, leading to a reduction in angiotensin II, a powerful vasoconstrictor. As a result, blood vessels relax and blood pressure decreases.
2. Hydrochlorothiazide: It is a thiazide diuretic. It works by inhibiting the sodium chloride co-transporter in the distal convoluted tubules of the kidneys. This prevents the reabsorption of sodium and chloride, causing the body to excrete more water and salt in the urine. This reduces the total blood volume and, consequently, lowers blood pressure.