Avapro
This page contains drug information on Avapro.
The information provided includes the following:
what is Avapro
the possible side effects of Avapro
what happens if you miss a dose of Avapro
what happens if you overdose with Avapro
the most important information about Avapro
how to use Avapro
other drugs that may affect Avapro
what to avoid while using Avapro
Generic Name: irbesartan (er beh SAR tan)
Brand Names: Avapro
What is the most important information I should know about irbesartan?
- Do not take irbesartan if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. When used during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, irbesartan can cause injury and even death to the developing fetus. Notify your doctor immediately if you think you might be pregnant.
- Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Irbesartan may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities. Also use caution when rising from a sitting or lying position.
- Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may further lower blood pressure and increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking irbesartan.
What is irbesartan?
- Irbesartan is in a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. Irbesartan prevents the constriction (narrowing) of blood vessels (veins and arteries).
- Irbesartan is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetic nephropathy (kidney disease caused by diabetes).
- Irbesartan may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking irbesartan?- Before taking irbesartan, tell your doctor if you
· have kidney disease;
· have liver disease;
· are on a salt-restricted diet or have high levels of potassium in your blood; or
· are taking a potassium supplement (e.g., K-Dur, Klor-Con, others), or a potassium-sparing diuretic such as amiloride (Midamor), triamterene (Dyrenium, Dyazide, Maxzide), or spironolactone (Aldactone).
- You may not be able to take irbesartan, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
- Irbesartan is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that it is known to be harmful to an unborn baby. When used during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, irbesartan can cause injury and even death to the developing fetus. Do not take irbesartan if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment
- It is not known whether irbesartan passes into breast milk. Do not take irbesartan without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take irbesartan?
- Take irbesartan exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
- Take each dose with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.
- You can take irbesartan with or without food.
- Your doctor may want to monitor your blood pressure or perform other tests to monitor the effects of this medication.
- Do not stop taking irbesartan without first talking to your doctor. If you stop taking the medication, your condition could become worse.
- Store irbesartan at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.
What happens if I overdose?
- Seek emergency medical attention.
- Symptoms of an irbesartan overdose are not well known, but might include dizziness, weakness, fainting, fatigue, and chest pain.
What should I avoid while taking irbesartan?
- Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Irbesartan may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities. Also use caution when rising from a sitting or lying position.
- Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may further lower blood pressure and increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking irbesartan.
- Do not use salt substitutes or take potassium supplements without first talking to your doctor. Irbesartan can affect potassium levels in the body.
What are the possible side effects of irbesartan?
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking irbesartan and call your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical treatment:
- an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); or
little or no urine.
Other side effects are less serious. Continue to take irbesartan and talk to your doctor if you experience
- diarrhea or upset stomach;
- swelling;
- muscle pain, cramps, or backache;
- dizziness;
- headache;
- insomnia; or
- congestion or cough (very unlikely).
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
What other drugs will affect irbesartan?
Before taking irbesartan, tell your doctor if you
- take a potassium supplement such as K-Dur, Klor-Con, and others;
- take a potassium-sparing diuretic (water pill) such as amiloride (Midamor), spironolactone (Aldactone), or triamterene (Dyrenium, Dyazide, Maxzide); or
- use a salt substitute.
Irbesartan can affect potassium levels in the body. You may not be able to take irbesartan, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you are taking any of the medicines listed above. Tell your doctor about any other medicines you take for high blood pressure or other heart conditions. Irbesartan may cause very low blood pressure if it is taken with other heart medications. Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with irbesartan or affect your condition. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products. |
