NCIt definition : A synthetic imidazole derivative prodrug with an antihypertensive property. Upon hydrolysis,
olmesartan medoxomil is converted to olmesartan. Olmesartan selectively binds to the
angiotensin type 1 (AT1) receptor of angiotensin II in vascular smooth muscle and
adrenal gland, thereby competing angiotensin II binding to the receptor. This prevents
angiotensin II-induced vasoconstriction and decreases aldosterone production, thereby
preventing aldosterone-stimulated sodium retention and potassium excretion.;