NCIt definition : A synthetic, benzimidazole-derived angiotensin II receptor antagonist prodrug with
antihypertensive activity. Candesartan selectively competes with angiotensin II for
the binding of the angiotensin II receptor subtype 1 (AT1) in vascular smooth muscle,
blocking angiotensin II-mediated vasoconstriction and inducing vasodilatation. In
addition, antagonism of AT1 in the adrenal gland inhibits angiotensin II-stimulated
aldosterone synthesis and secretion by the adrenal cortex; sodium and water excretion
increase, followed by a reduction in plasma volume and blood pressure.;