Azilsartan
.svg)
Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
Definite
Pharmaceutical Class
Angiotensin 2 Receptor Blocker
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Azilsartan
Learn more about this medicine -
Click HereSummary
Azilsartan is used for treating high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, in adults. It helps in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events like strokes and heart attacks.
Azilsartan works by blocking the action of a natural substance called angiotensin II that tightens blood vessels. By blocking this action, it allows blood vessels to relax and widen, improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure.
The usual daily dose for adults is 80 mg taken orally once a day. For patients treated with high doses of diuretics, a starting dose of 40 mg may be considered. It's important to take it at the same time each day.
Common side effects of Azilsartan include diarrhea and dizziness. Serious adverse effects can include low blood pressure, kidney impairment, and harm to the fetus if taken during pregnancy.
Azilsartan is not recommended during pregnancy as it can cause fetal harm. It should not be coadministered with aliskiren in diabetic patients. Also, it may interact with potassium supplements and salt substitutes containing potassium. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new medication or supplement.
Indications and Purpose
What is Azilsartan used for?
Azilsartan is indicated for the treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults. By lowering blood pressure, it helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular events such as strokes and heart attacks, which can occur if high blood pressure is left untreated.
How does Azilsartan work?
Azilsartan works by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a natural substance that causes blood vessels to tighten. By preventing this action, Azilsartan helps blood vessels relax and widen, allowing blood to flow more easily and reducing the workload on the heart, which helps lower blood pressure.
Is Azilsartan effective?
Azilsartan is effective in treating high blood pressure, as demonstrated in clinical trials. It works by blocking the action of substances that tighten blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more smoothly and the heart to pump more efficiently. This helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular events like strokes and heart attacks.
How does one know if Azilsartan is working?
The benefit of Azilsartan is evaluated by regularly checking blood pressure to determine the medication's effectiveness in controlling hypertension. Patients should keep all appointments with their doctor and laboratory to monitor their response to the medication and adjust the treatment plan as necessary.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of Azilsartan?
The usual daily dose for adults is 80 mg taken orally once daily. A starting dose of 40 mg may be considered for patients on high doses of diuretics. Safety and effectiveness in children have not been established, and its use is not recommended for children under 2 years of age.
How do I take Azilsartan?
Azilsartan should be taken once a day, with or without food, at the same time each day to help remember the dose. There are no specific food restrictions, but it is important to follow any dietary advice given by your doctor, such as a low-salt diet, to help control blood pressure.
For how long do I take Azilsartan?
Azilsartan is typically used as a long-term treatment for high blood pressure. It is important to continue taking it even if you feel well, as it controls high blood pressure but does not cure it. Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding the duration of use.
How long does it take for Azilsartan to start working?
Azilsartan may take about 2 weeks to show its full benefit in lowering blood pressure. It is important to continue taking the medication as prescribed, even if you feel well, to maintain its effectiveness in controlling high blood pressure.
How should I store Azilsartan?
Store Azilsartan in its original container, tightly closed, at room temperature away from light, excess heat, and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children. Do not store it in the bathroom. For disposal, use a medicine take-back program rather than flushing it down the toilet.
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Azilsartan?
Azilsartan should not be used during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, as it can cause harm or death to the developing fetus. It is also contraindicated in patients with diabetes who are taking aliskiren. Patients should be cautious if they have kidney or liver disease, and should avoid using potassium supplements or NSAIDs without consulting a doctor.
Can I take Azilsartan with other prescription drugs?
Azilsartan may interact with NSAIDs, including selective COX-2 inhibitors, which can reduce its effectiveness and affect kidney function. It should not be used with aliskiren in patients with diabetes. Caution is advised when used with lithium, as it can increase lithium levels. Always consult a doctor before starting or stopping any medication.
Can I take Azilsartan with vitamins or supplements?
Azilsartan may interact with potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium, potentially leading to increased potassium levels in the blood. It is important to consult a doctor before taking any new vitamins or supplements while on Azilsartan to avoid adverse interactions.
Can Azilsartan be taken safely while pregnant?
Azilsartan is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, due to the risk of fetal harm, including reduced renal function and increased morbidity and mortality. If pregnancy is detected, discontinue Azilsartan immediately and consult a doctor for alternative treatments.
Can Azilsartan be taken safely while breastfeeding?
There is limited information on the presence of Azilsartan in human milk and its effects on the breastfed infant. Due to potential adverse effects, breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with Azilsartan. Consult a doctor for alternative treatments if breastfeeding is planned or ongoing.
Is Azilsartan safe for the elderly?
No specific dose adjustment is necessary for elderly patients taking Azilsartan. However, elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of the medication, such as dizziness or lightheadedness. It is important for elderly patients to be monitored closely, especially when starting the medication or adjusting the dose.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Azilsartan?
Azilsartan may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when getting up quickly from a lying position. This could potentially affect your ability to exercise safely. If you experience these symptoms, it is advisable to avoid activities that require alertness until you know how the medication affects you.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Azilsartan?
From all available and reliable information, there is no confirmed data on this. Please consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Forms / Brands
