What is Micardis?
Micardis, also known as an ARB (angiotensin II-receptor blocker), is a medication that blocks the receptor for angiotensin II. Telmisartan prevents the blood vessels from constricting. Lowering blood pressure and improving circulation is thus achieved. Micardis treats hypertension. A lower blood pressure can reduce your chances of having a stroke or a heart attack. Micardis can also be used to lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, or heart attacks in those who have risk factors.
Warnings
If you are pregnant, stop using Micardis immediately and inform your doctor. Telmisartan may cause harm or even death to an unborn child if taken during the second or third trimester. Micardis should not be taken with any blood pressure medication that contains it. Amturnide, Tekturna, Tekamlo, and Valturna).If you suffer from kidney disease, it is important to not take Micardis along with Aliskiren.Micardis may cause kidney failure in rare instances. If you experience unexplained weakness, muscle tenderness, or pain, and you are also experiencing fever, fatigue, or dark urine, call your doctor immediately.
Before you take this drug
Micardis should be avoided if you have an allergy to telmisartan.
Tell your doctor about any of the following to ensure that Micardis will be safe for you:
- A heart condition that is not being treated by Micardis
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease or dialysis (if applicable)
- If you're on a diet low in salt,.
You should not take this medicine if you are pregnant. Telmisartan is dangerous to unborn babies if taken during the second or third trimester. Ask your doctor if you are planning to become pregnant and if you want to take a safe medicine before and during the pregnancy. High blood pressure can have detrimental consequences for both mother and infant. This medicine should not be used while breastfeeding.
How to take Micardis?
Read and follow all instructions provided with your medication, such as patient guides or instruction sheets. Your physician may alter its dose. Micardis should be taken at the same dose every day, with or without eating.If you have nausea, diarrhea, or are experiencing more sweating than normal, call your doctor. Micardis can cause dehydration. You may need to wait 2–4 weeks for your blood pressure to be under control. Continue to take this medication even if your symptoms are improving. High blood pressure can often be symptomless. It is possible that you will need to take blood pressure medication for the rest of your life. Diet, exercise, cholesterol lowering, stopping smoking, and diabetes control may be included in the treatment. You will have to check your blood pressure regularly. You may need to check your liver and kidney functions. Keep away from heat and moisture. Store the tablets with their original packaging or containers, as well as any packets or canisters of moisture-absorbing preserver.You should keep this medication in the original package until you are ready to use it. Remove one blister tablet from its package. Peel back the liner and insert the tablet.
Details on dosage
Usual Adult Dose for Hypertension:
First dose: orally, 40 mg once daily
Maintenance dose: between 40 and 80 mg taken orally, once daily.
Comments The majority of antihypertensive effects are present after 2 weeks. Maximum blood pressure reduction is usually observed 4 weeks after starting a dose.
Usual Adult Dose for Cardiovascular Risk Reduction:
Take 80 mg once daily.
There is no evidence that doses less than 80mg are effective at reducing cardiovascular morbidity or mortality.
When starting this medication for the reduction of cardiovascular risks, it is advised to monitor blood pressure and, if necessary, adjust other medications that lower blood pressure.
Use: Reduction of risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, or death from cardiovascular causes in patients 55 years of age or older at high risk of developing major cardiovascular events who are unable to take angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. A history of peripheral artery disease, stroke, or transient ischaemic attack can indicate a high risk of cardiovascular events.
What happens if I miss the dose?
Similarly, if your next dose is nearly due, take only one at a time and do not double up on any doses taken previously.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
What should be avoided?
You may get dizzy if you stand up quickly from a seated or lying position. You should not use potassium or salt alternatives unless you have been told to by your doctor.
Side effects of Micardis
If you experience any of the following symptoms of a Micardis allergy: itching, difficulty breathing, swelling in your lips, face, throat, or tongue, or hives, seek emergency medical attention.
Call your doctor immediately if:
- A feeling of lightheadedness, as if you could pass out.
- Little or no urine;
- Rapid weight gain; ankle or foot swellings
- Are you suffering from lower back pain or tightness
- A skin ulcer
- High blood potassium: nausea, weakness and tingling, heart pain, abnormal heartbeats, or loss of mobility.
Micardis may cause side effects such as:
- Stuffy nose, sinus pain;
- Back pain
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. Call the FDA immediately if experiencing side effects by calling them at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Interaction with other drug
Tell your physician of all medications taken, such as:
- Digoxin;
- Lithium;
- A diuretic, "water pill," or any other medicine for high blood pressure;
- Aspirin (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) (Advil and Motrin), ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib (Aleve), diclofenac (Indomethacin), meloxicam (and others);
The list below is not exhaustive. Telmisartan may also interact with other drugs, such as vitamins and herbs. This list does not include all drug interactions.
