Irbesartan

Irbesartan — Uses and Benefits

Irbesartan is used to treat high blood pressure and to help protect the kidneys in people with type 2 diabetes who have kidney damage.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treating high blood pressure (hypertension)
• Slowing worsening of kidney disease caused by type 2 diabetes
• Sometimes used along with other blood pressure medicines

HOW IT WORKS

• Blocks the action of a natural chemical called angiotensin II
• This chemical normally causes blood vessels to tighten
• By blocking it, blood vessels relax and widen
• This lowers blood pressure and eases strain on the heart and kidneys

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not a painkiller or fever medicine
• Not used for immediate emergency lowering of blood pressure
• Not a treatment for heart attack or stroke once it has occurred
• Not meant for use during pregnancy

How to Use Irbesartan

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once a day
• Can be taken with or without food
• Swallow the tablet with a glass of water; do not crush unless advised
• Try to take it at the same time each day to build a routine
• Continue taking it even if you feel well, as blood pressure control needs regular use
• Do not stop suddenly without talking to your doctor

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember on the same day
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one
• Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep in the original blister pack or container
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Irbesartan — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dizziness
• Tiredness or weakness
• Mild headache
• Nausea

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Diarrhoea or upset stomach
• Muscle or joint pain
• Fast heartbeat
• Heartburn

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat (signs of allergic reaction)
• Difficulty breathing
• Fainting or severe dizziness
• Signs of high potassium such as irregular heartbeat or muscle weakness
• Yellowing of skin or eyes
• Very low urine output

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Irbesartan — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are pregnant or planning pregnancy
• Are breastfeeding
• Are allergic to irbesartan or any ingredient in the tablet
• Are also taking aliskiren-containing medicines and have diabetes or kidney problems

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney or liver disease
• Have heart problems or low blood pressure
• Have diabetes
• Are on a low-salt diet or take potassium supplements
• Are dehydrated due to vomiting, diarrhoea or heavy sweating
• Are scheduled for surgery or anaesthesia

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other blood pressure medicines
• Potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen
• Lithium
• Other ACE inhibitors or ARBs

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this medicine during pregnancy?

No, it should not be used during pregnancy as it can harm the baby; inform your doctor immediately if you become pregnant.

How long does it take to work?

It may take a few weeks of regular use for full blood pressure control, though some effect may be seen within days.

Can I stop taking it once my blood pressure is normal?

• No, do not stop without your doctor's advice, as blood pressure can rise again if the medicine is stopped suddenly.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.