Расилез

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Расилез

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Расилез

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Aliskiren (INN)
Form Film-coated tablet
Pharmacological class Direct Renin Inhibitor
Common use Control of high blood pressure
Origin Synthetic compound

What is Rasilez (Aliskiren)?

Rasilez is a prescription-only brand-name medication whose active ingredient is Aliskiren, and it belongs to a unique pharmacological category known as a Direct Renin Inhibitor. This is a synthetic compound that represents the first drug in its class to be approved for clinical use. The product is internationally known under the brand name Rasilez (and Tekturna in the US), and is classified as an antihypertensive agent.

This medication is distinct because it targets the body's natural blood pressure regulation system, the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS), at its initial and most fundamental point. As a single-ingredient oral medication, its entire effect comes from the Aliskiren compound itself, providing a specialized approach to blood pressure management.

General Purpose and Differentiating Features

The general purpose of Rasilez is to help achieve and maintain healthy, lower blood pressure levels for individuals diagnosed with hypertension. Aliskiren’s primary pharmacological action is to reduce plasma renin activity, leading to blood pressure reduction. This confirms that the primary benefit is to achieve stable control of elevated pressure.

Rasilez is supplied as biconvex, film-coated tablets designed for convenient oral use. A key differentiating feature is that it works by reducing renin activity directly, unlike many other antihypertensives. This action helps to interrupt the complex signals that cause blood vessels to tighten, which is the foundational reason the drug was developed for cardiovascular control.

What side effects are possible with Расилез?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Rasilez (Aliskiren) is formally established by government regulatory bodies, classifying adverse reactions by frequency and organ system. The information below is based strictly on official regulatory prescribing documents.

Frequency-Classified Adverse Reactions

The following non-serious effects are officially categorized by incidence rate:

Frequency Documented Adverse Reaction
Common (1 in 100 to 1 in 10) Diarrhoea, Dizziness, Arthralgia (Joint Pain), Hyperkalaemia
Uncommon (1 in 1,000 to 1 in 100) Hypotension, Cough, Peripheral Oedema, Acute renal failure/impairment
Rare (1 in 10,000 to 1 in 1,000) Anaphylactic reactions, Hypersensitivity reactions

Serious Safety Considerations

Official regulatory labeling highlights several serious adverse reactions and risks that require attention:

  • Angioedema: This is a serious swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or larynx, with the potential for fatal airway obstruction. Angioedema can occur at any time during treatment.
  • Acute Renal Failure: Reversible cases of sudden kidney function decline have been documented and typically resolve upon prompt discontinuation of the medicine.
  • Fetal Toxicity: Aliskiren is officially contraindicated during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy because it can cause injury and death to the developing fetus.
  • Hyperkalaemia: A risk of elevated serum potassium exists, which is more pronounced in patients with pre-existing renal impairment or diabetes.

Population-Specific Safety Restrictions

Official regulatory constraints define specific groups for whom the medicine should not be used or requires special caution:

  • Contraindicated in Pregnancy: Use is prohibited during the latter half of pregnancy.
  • Contraindicated in Combination Therapy: The medication must not be used concurrently with an ACE Inhibitor or an ARB in patients diagnosed with diabetes or those who have moderate-to-severe renal impairment.

Overdose and Emergency Response

A Rasilez (Aliskiren) overdose is primarily expected to present as symptomatic hypotension, or severely low blood pressure, which is a direct extension of the drug’s intended therapeutic effect. Official regulatory labeling indicates that high dose overexposure is also associated with an increased incidence of diarrhea.

When to Seek Urgent Medical Help

The official labeling mandates seeking immediate medical attention for any suspected overexposure or the presentation of severe effects. Urgent care is essential if the patient experiences signs of profound hypotension, such as fainting. Life-threatening outcomes associated with overexposure include acute renal failure and dangerous hyperkalemia (high blood potassium levels).

The most critical risk requiring emergency intervention is angioedema (swelling of the face, tongue, or throat), which can lead to fatal airway obstruction. If angioedema is suspected, emergency services must be contacted immediately, as the official response involves measures to ensure a patent airway and the prompt administration of epinephrine.

Management and Support

Management of Rasilez overexposure is strictly symptomatic and supportive. No specific antidote is known. Regulatory documents explicitly state that only a minor portion of the drug is removed by hemodialysis, confirming the procedure is not considered adequate for treating overdose. Furthermore, patients with severe renal impairment are noted to be at increased risk during an overexposure scenario.

Therapeutic Uses of Расилез

Rasilez (Aliskiren) is commonly used for managing Essential Hypertension, a chronic condition characterized by persistently high blood pressure in adults. Its use may assist in managing high blood pressure, a key risk factor for serious cardiovascular events.

The medication supports the long-term management of chronically elevated systolic and diastolic pressure readings, and is considered relevant for managing various levels of elevated pressure. The medication is commonly used when patients require additional support in regulating blood pressure, such as when it is used alone (monotherapy) or as part of a combination regimen. It contributes to easing the noticeable physiological strain associated with high pressure.

“This medication supports patients by assisting with maintaining functional stability and managing the symptoms related to heightened systemic burden.”

The primary therapeutic benefit is aligned with domains involving significant symptom expression related to systemic imbalance.

Quick Fact: Support for Symptoms Related to High Blood Pressure

The medication is generally applied in conditions characterized by periods of heightened systemic imbalance, used for managing essential hypertension (primary high blood pressure).

Regulatory References

  1. NIH DailyMed Drug Information

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Official Eligibility Profile for Rasilez (Aliskiren)

Classification Who Cannot Use the Medicine (Contraindicated)
Drug Combinations Concomitant use with ACE Inhibitors or ARBs in patients with diabetes mellitus or renal impairment (GFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m^2).
Physiological States Second and third trimesters of pregnancy (use generally not recommended in any state of pregnancy), and breastfeeding is not recommended.
Hypersensitivity History of angioedema (hereditary, idiopathic, or with aliskiren), or known hypersensitivity to the active substance or excipients.
Age Limits Children from birth to less than 2 years of age.

Classification Restricted or Not Recommended Use
Renal Function Not recommended for patients with severe renal impairment (GFR < 30 mL/min/1.73 m^2). Caution advised for renal artery stenosis.
Age Not established for children aged 6 to 17 years; not recommended for children aged 2 to less than 6 years due to safety concerns.
Other Conditions Use requires caution in patients with serious congestive heart failure (NYHA III-IV) and in those with conditions that pre-dispose to kidney dysfunction, such as hypovolaemia.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Aliskiren (Rasilez) is a direct renin inhibitor, and its use may carry clinically significant interaction risks, particularly concerning the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS) and drug transport systems.

Contraindicated Combinations

  • Dual RAAS Blockade: Concomitant use with Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors (ACEIs) or Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs) is strictly contraindicated in patients with diabetes mellitus or those with renal impairment (Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR < 60 ml/min/1.73 m^2)). This combination increases the risk of hypotension, hyperkalemia (high potassium), and worsening renal function.
  • Potent P-glycoprotein (P-gp) Inhibitors: The combination with highly potent P-gp inhibitors, such as Ciclosporin or Itraconazole, is contraindicated. These agents significantly increase aliskiren plasma levels, leading to excessive exposure.

Other Important Interactions

  • RAAS Agents and NSAIDs: Combination with other RAAS agents, Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), potassium supplements, or potassium-sparing diuretics may increase the risk of hyperkalemia and acute renal dysfunction. Monitoring of serum potassium and renal function is advised.
  • Furosemide: Co-administration of aliskiren reduces the exposure of the diuretic Furosemide.
  • Food and Beverages: Concomitant intake with fruit juice or drinks containing plant extracts (including grapefruit juice and herbal teas) should be avoided as they can reduce the absorption of aliskiren, potentially leading to therapeutic failure.
  • P-gp Inhibitors (Moderate): Moderate P-gp inhibitors like Ketoconazole may increase aliskiren levels, but typically no dose adjustment for aliskiren is necessary.

Mechanism of Action

Расилез (aliskiren) functions as a direct renin inhibitor. Its molecular target is the renin enzyme, primarily secreted by the juxtaglomerular cells of the kidney.

Расилез binds with high affinity to the S3bp binding site within the active catalytic pocket of human renin. This physical interaction sterically prevents renin from catalyzing the proteolysis of the circulating protein angiotensinogen into angiotensin I. The mechanism is a selective, non-peptide inhibition of the renin enzyme.

The resulting molecular pathway modulation involves a dose-dependent reduction in circulating levels of both angiotensin I and the downstream bioactive peptide angiotensin II. By inhibiting the rate-limiting step of the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS) cascade, the formation of angiotensin II is suppressed.

The system-level physiological consequences involve a corresponding decrease in angiotensin II type 1 ( AT1) receptor activation on vascular smooth muscle and within the adrenal cortex. Reduced AT1 signaling modulates systemic vascular resistance, decreasing arterial smooth muscle contraction (vasoconstriction), and attenuates the aldosterone secretion mediated by the adrenal cortex. This cascade leads to modulated fluid and electrolyte homeostasis due to decreased aldosterone-induced renal sodium and water reabsorption.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Rasilez (Aliskiren) — Administration Guidelines

The following instructions detail the proper use of Rasilez (aliskiren) as defined for its standardized procedure for administration. These guidelines define the requirements for administration.

Administration Scope and Dosage

Parameter Official Instruction
Route of Administration Oral use (swallowed).
Standard Dosing Recommended starting dose is 150 mg once daily. The maximum daily dose is 300 mg once daily.
Tablet Form Film-coated tablets are available in 150 mg and 300 mg strengths. Tablets must be swallowed whole with water. Do not crush or chew.

Timing and Procedural Rules

Consistency is mandatory for the use of Rasilez. The medicine should be taken once daily at the same time each day.

Procedural Rule Requirement
Food Relationship Establish a routine pattern and maintain consistency: always take it either with a meal or always without, but not alternating.
High-Fat Meals Avoid taking the tablet with a high-fat meal, as this substantially decreases absorption.
Grapefruit Avoid taking Rasilez with grapefruit or grapefruit juice.
Missed Dose If a dose is missed, do not take an extra dose to compensate. Continue with the next scheduled dose at the regular time.

Population-Specific Rules

Pediatric Dosing (6 to 17 years) is weight-based, ranging from 75 mg to 300 mg daily. Severe Renal Impairment (GFR < 30 mL/min) is not recommended for treatment. Volume or salt depletion must be corrected before starting therapy.

These instructions structure the proper, non-advisory use of the medicine, adhering to the mandated administration protocol.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for [Active Substance Name]


Evidence for use in Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Research exploring the effects of [Active Substance Name] in people with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) has primarily used short-term, randomized controlled trials (RCTs). These studies was studied for to examine how symptoms change over time in adult participants, often comparing the intervention to an inactive placebo. The main outcomes measured were scores from standardized rating scales, which help track episodic or acute changes in symptoms during the study period.

Studies reported how symptoms evolved in the observed populations, and the measured changes in symptom severity scores in the intervention group were reported to be distinct from the changes reported in the placebo group at the study endpoint. However, the magnitude of these changes measured during the study period has varied across studies, contributing to the broader evidence landscape.

Evidence for use in Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD) / Dysthymia

The intervention was evaluated in research settings involving PDD, also known as Dysthymia, which is a condition characterized by a long-standing, low-grade, depressive mood. The studies often involved short-term RCTs or observational cohorts. Researchers examined how scores on standardized scales, which track outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance, changed over defined time intervals. Research describes that participants in the intervention groups were observed in some studies to have changes in symptom intensity measurements. Since PDD is a chronic condition, the research provides context but results apply only to the populations studied during the brief period of observation.


What is still uncertain about [Active Substance Name]

A key area where more research is needed is in understanding the long-term experience of patients. Since the available research mainly covers short-term intervals, long-term outcomes are not fully established. Comparative evidence is lacking to fully contextualize how the patterns observed with the intervention compare to other existing long-term treatment strategies. Additionally, data for certain groups remain insufficient, such as adolescents or older adults. The overall body of evidence remains limited in its capacity to provide individual forecasts, as findings describe group patterns, not personal outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Расилез (FAQ)


Q: How is the long-term effectiveness of Расилез generally described in studies?

A: Official clinical studies, including those lasting up to one year, indicate that the medication is generally well-tolerated. Clinical research describes that the blood pressure-lowering effect was sustained over the long-term study period.


Q: How are serious skin reactions (like Stevens-Johnson Syndrome) described in the official documents for Расилез?

A: Official regulatory documentation, including postmarketing reports, lists severe cutaneous adverse reactions as possible occurrences. These serious skin reactions are described in regulatory documents as possible adverse events that have occurred with the use of the medicine, including conditions such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN).


Q: Why is a specific drug class like renin inhibitors used instead of older drug types?

A: This medicine is described in official sources as the first in its class known as a direct renin inhibitor. It is used because it provides a specialized mechanism to block the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), a primary system for blood pressure regulation, at its very initial step.


Q: Is the drug Расилез considered a first-line treatment for high blood pressure according to official guidelines?

A: Regulatory documents confirm that the drug is approved for the treatment of essential hypertension (high blood pressure) and may be used alone or combined with other medicines. The medicine's placement in an overall treatment plan is typically defined by national clinical guidelines and established medical practice.


Q: How long does it usually take for Расилез to start having an effect?

A: Official product information states that the majority of the blood pressure-lowering effect is achieved within approximately two weeks of therapy initiation. It may take longer to observe the full effects of the medication.


Q: Is Расилез a medicine that needs to be taken for an extended period of time?

A: Treatment for chronic conditions like high blood pressure is generally managed over the long term. Clinical studies have demonstrated that the blood pressure-lowering effects of the drug are sustained when it is taken daily over extended periods, up to one year.


Q: How will a patient know if Расилез is having the intended effect?

A: The intended effect is to help lower and control blood pressure, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular events. Since high blood pressure often has no noticeable symptoms, the drug's effectiveness is commonly monitored through regular blood pressure readings taken in a clinical or home setting.


Q: What is the typical medical process for discontinuing Расилез treatment?

A: The prescribing information states that the medication should be discontinued without delay if serious adverse reactions are observed. Examples of serious issues include swelling of the face or throat (angioedema) or a clinically significant decline in kidney function.


Q: How does the risk of cough with Расилез compare to other blood pressure medicines?

A: Clinical trials describe that the incidence of cough with this drug appears lower compared to a class of older blood pressure drugs called ACE inhibitors. Studies indicate the rate of cough is approximately one-third to one-half the rate seen with ACE inhibitors.


Q: Is a rash a common side effect of Расилез?

A: A general skin rash, or urticaria (hives), has been noted in official postmarketing experience reports. However, a general rash is not classified under the common or uncommon frequency categories found in the official clinical trials data tables.


Q: Have there been studies on the effects of Расилез on liver function?

A: Postmarketing reports describe observations of increased hepatic enzymes that occurred with clinical symptoms of hepatic dysfunction (liver-related issues). These reports confirm that effects on the liver have been documented in official sources.

How should Расилез be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Racilez

Racilez (Aliskiren) must be stored under specific, controlled conditions to maintain product integrity, as directed by official labeling.

Storage Requirements

Condition Requirement
Temperature Store at controlled room temperature (68°F to 77°F or 20°C to 25°C). Do not freeze and keep away from excessive heat.
Protection Protect from moisture and direct light.
Container Keep in the original container and ensure it is tightly closed. Do not remove the desiccant, if present.
Safety Must be stored out of the sight and reach of children.

Disposal

Unused or expired Racilez must be disposed of in accordance with local requirements. It should not be discarded in wastewater (flushed down the toilet) or mixed with routine household garbage. Consult a pharmacist or utilize a medicine take-back program for appropriate disposal.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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