OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to develop a method of value analysis which would facilitate an objective comparison of available angiotensin II antagonists as blood pressure lowering agents, in order to provide an adaptable framework to allow for future clinical developments and new product introduction. METHODS: The four angiotensin II antagonists available for analysis were candesartan, irbesartan, losartan and valsartan. The analysis was conducted under the auspices of a team comprising of a cardiologist, a physician and a pharmacist; the pharmacist was responsible for co-ordination of the process. A nine-point selection criteria set was developed and each criterion assigned a relative weight value by the team. Each drug product was systematically evaluated against each criterion to generate a series of product-criterion scores. A total score for each product was derived from the sum of product-criterion score multiplied by the respective criterion weighted value determined previously. The results were analysed and the model tested for sensitivity to parameter changes where any doubts existed concerning the scoring process. Results and outcomes were presented to the Drug and Therapeutics Committee. RESULTS: The initial analysis generated scores which were similar for irbesartan (831) and candesartan (822). These scores appeared to be significantly higher than those obtained for valsartan (764) and losartan (706). Following consideration of the impact of sensitivity tests in the model, it had been previously decided that changes in parameters reflecting efficacy were warranted and so revised scores for candesartan (901) and irbesartan (871) were calculated. CONCLUSIONS: The results were presented to the Drug and Therapeutics Committee and consequently the addition of candesartan and removal of losartan from the formulary were formally approved.