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The article discusses the use of renin antagonists to control hypertension. Renin is being secreted by the kidneys in response to low arterial pressure and helps in controlling the rate-limiting step in the renin angiotensin system. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved aliskiren (Tekturna) as treatment for hypertension alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents.

The article offers information on Valturna (aliskerin/valsartan) from Novartis Pharmaceutical which was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of high blood pressure. The drug is a combination product which inhibits the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system at different locations. It is contraindicated for pregnant women.