Angiotensin receptor blockers: impact on costs of care.

Direct and indirect costs related to the treatment of hypertension are estimated at nearly $60 billion annually. Short- and long-term costs of healthcare utilization and treatment are, therefore, important considerations in selection of antihypertensive therapy. Studies of patients with hypertension and type 2 diabetes have shown that treatment with angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) can reduce healthcare costs as a result of a decreased incidence of end-stage renal disease and other clinical end points. ARBs also increase survival in these patients. Cost savings have also been reported in patients with heart failure as a result of reductions in office and emergency department visits, hospital admissions, and hospital stays.