--There is growing evidence that angiotensin II-receptor antagonists may have protective effects for preventing cerebrovascular incidents. --It is unlikely that these effects are due only to a decrease in blood pressure. --One hypothesis is that high concentrations ofangiotensin II result in improved cerebral perfusion ofangiotensin type 2-receptor mediated mechanisms such as local vasodilatation and angiogenesis. --Several clinical and preclinical studies support this hypothesis. --The results of these studies are discussed in this overview. There is still insufficient evidence that a protective effect on the brain occurs.