FDA Approves Edarbi for Hypertension

The FDA has approved the angiotensin II receptor blocker azilsartan medoxomil to treat hypertension in adults.

The drug, marketed as Edarbi, was shown to be more effective in lowering 24-hour blood pressure than valsartan or olmesartan. The agency says the drug will be available in two doses, 40 and 80 mg, with the lower dose intended for patients on high-dose diuretics.

A boxed warning cautions against use during pregnancy, because the drug can harm the fetus.