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Irbesartan

Prescription
Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB)
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
1 available
Interactions
2 documented
Formulations
1

Mechanism of action

Selectively blocks angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptors, preventing angiotensin II-mediated vasoconstriction, aldosterone secretion, and cardiac/renal remodeling. Unlike ACE inhibitors, does not cause bradykinin accumulation (no cough).

At a glance

Class
Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB)
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store at room temperature below 30°C

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used for proteinuria reduction, hypertension, and as alternative or addition to
Dose
1–5 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q24h
🐈

Cat

Off-label — telmisartan (Semintra) is the FDA-approved feline ARB and is general
Dose
1–2 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
q24h

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength
—

Storage

Store at room temperature below 30°C

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Blood pressureRenal function (BUN, creatinine)Serum potassiumUPC ratio

Interactions

Major — 1

Spironolactone
major
ARB + potassium-sparing diuretic: additive potassium retention causing hyperkalemia.
Management: Monitor potassium closely. Avoid concurrent potassium supplements.

Moderate — 1

Meloxicam
moderate
NSAID opposes ARB renal protection by reducing prostaglandin-dependent afferent arteriolar vasodilation.
Management: Monitor renal function. Ensure hydration.

Brands

Other markets

Avapro

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Irbesartan?
Irbesartan is a angiotensin ii receptor blocker (arb) used in pets. Selectively blocks angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptors, preventing angiotensin II-mediated vasoconstriction, aldosterone secretion, and cardiac/renal remodeling. Unlike ACE inhibitors, does not cause bradykinin accumulation (no cough).
›What is Irbesartan used for in pets?
Irbesartan is used in veterinary medicine for: Used for proteinuria reduction, hypertension, and as alternative or addition to ; Off-label — telmisartan (Semintra) is the FDA-approved feline ARB and is general.
›What is the Irbesartan dose for dogs?
For dogs, Irbesartan is typically dosed as follows — Used for proteinuria reduction, hypertension, and as alternative or addition to : 1–5 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Irbesartan dose for cats?
For cats, Irbesartan is typically dosed as follows — Off-label — telmisartan (Semintra) is the FDA-approved feline ARB and is general: 1–2 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Irbesartan need a prescription?
Yes. Irbesartan is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Related medicines

Other medicines in the same class (Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker).

Losartan
Rx
Selectively blocks angiotensin II AT1 receptors, reducing vasoconstriction, aldosterone release, and blood pressure; provides renoprotective effects
dog
Telmisartan
Rx
Selectively blocks angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptors, reducing vasoconstriction, aldosterone secretion, and sympathetic activity; provides renoprotective effects by reducing glomerular pressure
catdog