What is Irbesartan?
Irbesartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (sometimes referred to as an ARB).
Irbesartan is a medication used in the treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension) among adults as well as children who are at least 6 years old. Lowering blood pressure can reduce the chance of having a stroke or heart attack.Irbesartan can also be used to treat kidney issues caused by type 2 diabetes.Irbesartan is also employed for other purposes that are not covered in this guideline.
Side effects Irbesartan
See a doctor immediately. Get medical attention immediately if you notice symptoms that are warning signs of an allergic response, such as difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling of your lips, face, and throat.
Irbesartan may cause serious side effects. Consult your doctor immediately if you experience:
- A feeling of lightheadedness, as if you're passing out;
- Minimal or no urination
- High potassium level; nausea and weakness sensations; tingling chest discomfort; irregular heartbeats; decreased movement.
Common adverse effects of irbesartan could include:
- Dizziness;
- Feeling lightheaded;
- High levels of potassium.
This isn't a complete list of possible side effects, and other side effects could occur. Consult Seek advice from your doctor for medical advice regarding adverse reactions. If you have any concerns, report them to the FDA by calling 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings
Avoid using it when you are pregnant. Stop using it and inform your doctor immediately if you find yourself pregnant.If you suffer from diabetes, don't use irbesartan in conjunction with any other medication that has the ingredient aliskiren (a blood pressure medication).
Before you Take this Drug
Irbesartan is not a good choice if you have an allergy to it.If you are diabetic, irbesartan is not recommended along with any other medication that contains an ingredient called aliskiren (a blood pressure medication).It is also possible to stay clear of taking irbesartan along with aliskiren in the event of kidney problems.
Inform your doctor if you were ever diagnosed with:
- An unrelated heart condition to one that is treated with irbesartan
- Kidney problems (or if you're taking dialysis).
- If you're on a-diet that is low in salt.
Avoid using the medicine if you are expecting. Stop taking the medication and inform your doctor immediately if you find yourself pregnant. Irbesartan can cause injury or even death to an unborn baby if you use the medication in your third or second trimester.
If you are planning to become pregnant, ask your doctor for a safe medication to take prior to or during the pregnancy. A high blood pressure level during pregnancy could cause issues for both the mother and the child.
It is not recommended to breastfeed while taking irbesartan.
How to Take Irbesartan?
Follow all the instructions on the label of your prescription and read the medication guide or instructions sheets. The doctor might alter your dosage. Make sure you take the medication exactly as prescribed.Irbesartan is a drug that can be taken with or without meals.
Your blood pressure is likely to be checked regularly. Your kidney function could also require checking.Consult your doctor if you have a fever, nausea, or diarrhea or notice that you are sweating more than normal. It is possible to become dehydrated while taking irbesartan.It could take up to two weeks until your blood pressure levels are under control. Use this medicine as prescribed, even if you do not feel healthy. High blood pressure can have no signs.
You could need to take blood pressure medication throughout your life. Treatment could also include exercise, a diet to lower cholesterol, quitting smoking, and preventing diabetes.
Keep at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.
Details on Dosage
Usual Adult Dose for Hypertension:
Initial dose: 150 mg taken orally every day, once
Maintenance 150 to 300 mg once orally every day
Maximum dosage: 300 mg orally every day, once
Comments:
It can be used as a stand-alone drug or in conjunction with other antihypertensive drugs.
Treatment for hypertension.
Usual Adult Dose for Diabetic Nephropathy:
300 mg orally, once a day
Comments:
It has been demonstrated to slow the risk of progression of kidney disease with the appearance of a doubled serum creatinine, or ESRD (need for dialysis as well as kidney transplantation).
Treatment of diabetic nephropathy in people suffering from hypertension and type 2 diabetes with elevated serum creatinine or proteinuria (greater than 300 mg per day)
What Happens If I Miss a Dose?
Do not take the medicine for as long as you are able, but avoid your missed dose if you are nearing the time to take the next dose. Don't take two doses at a time.
What Happens If I Overdose?
For medical emergencies, seek emergency medical attention or contact the Poison Help line toll-free at 1-800-222-1222.
Overdose symptoms can include fast heartbeats or the feeling of fainting.
What Should be Avoided?
Do not use salt substitutes as well as potassium supplements, unless your doctor has directed that you should.
Do not get up too quickly from a lying or sitting position. You could be dizzy.
Interaction with Other Drugs
Inform your doctor about any other medications you take, including:
- Blood pressure or heart medication;
- Lithium
- These are NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs): aspirin, ibuprofen, aspirin (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), celecoxib, diclofenac, indomethacin, meloxicam, and many more.
This list is not comprehensive. Other medications can affect Irbesartan, such as medications that are prescribed and available over the counter, vitamins, and herbal products. There are many possible interactions between drugs, which are listed here.