Irbesartan and Lipoic Acid Improve Endothelial Function and Reduce Markers of Inflammation in the Metabolic Syndrome

Abstract
Background— The metabolic syndrome is associated with increased angiotensin II activity, induction of a proinflammatory and oxidative state, and endothelial dysfunction. We evaluated the ability of irbesartan, an angiotensin receptor blocker, and lipoic acid, an antioxidant, to affect endothelial function and inflammation in patients with the metabolic syndrome.