Drug Title

Micardis (Telmisartan)

Drug Uses

Micardis (Telmisartan) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that is used to treat hypertension. It blocks the hormone angiotensin thereby relaxing blood vessels, causing them to widen and reduces blood pressure. Micardis is also used to prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems

How it is taken

Micardis can be taken by mouth with or without food to avoid an upset stomach. Take it for the entire duration of treatment preferably at the same time everyday. Do not stop without consulting your doctor. It may take weeks for your condition to improve. The best way to use the drug is as recommended by your doctor. Do not take potassium supplements or salt substitutes without consulting your doctor first.

Drug Class & Mechanism

Micardis (Telmisartan) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that blocks the hormone angiotensin thereby relaxing blood vessels, causing them to widen and reduces blood pressure.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose of Mycardin then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Storage

Store it at room temperature (between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) in an air tight container protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.

Warnings/Precautions

Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances, kidney disease, liver disease, high blood levels of potassium, heart problems, severe dehydration (and loss of electrolytes such as sodium), diabetes (poorly controlled), any allergies (especially to ACE inhibitors such as captopril, lisinopril) may cause drowsiness. These effects get aggravated if you take it with alcohol or certain other medications (sleep aids, muscle relaxers). So, do not drive or perform other potentially hazardous tasks until you know how your body reacts to the drug.

You must not take if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or are pregnant (after the 3rd month).

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using Micardis and contact your doctor immediately.

It is unknown whether Micardis is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Certain drugs can interact with and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking.

Ensure that you inform your doctor and your dentist about Micardis before receiving any form of medical treatment or dental treatment or emergency surgery.

Periodic lab tests may be recommended to monitor your health while taking the drug. Ensure that you do not miss any lab tests.

It has been noted that elderly patients are more sensitive to the side effects of the drug. They might need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring throughout the treatment.

Possible Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of are dizziness, lightheadedness, blurred vision, or back pain. Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.

Other severe side effects include allergic reactions fainting, decreased sexual ability, change in the amount of urine, rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, lips, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.