Irbesartan (patient information)

IMPORTANT WARNING

Do not take irbesartan if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant while taking irbesartan, call your doctor immediately. Irbesartan may harm the fetus.

Why this medication is prescribed

Irbesartan is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high blood pressure. It is also used to treat kidney disease caused by diabetes in patients with type 2 (formerly 'adult onset') diabetes and high blood pressure. Irbesartan is in a class of medications called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. It works by blocking the action of certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly.

How this medication should be used

Irbesartan comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day with or without food. To help you remember to take irbesartan, take it around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take irbesartan exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Your doctor may start you on a low dose of irbesartan and gradually increase your dose.

Irbesartan controls high blood pressure but does not cure it. Continue to take irbesartan even if you feel well. Do not stop taking irbesartan without talking to your doctor.

Other uses for this medicine

Irbesartan is also used sometimes to treat heart failure. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this medication for your condition.

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Special precautions

Before taking irbesartan:

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to irbesartan or any other medications.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Be sure to mention any of the following: diuretics ('water pills'), nifedipine (Adalat, Procardia), and tolbutamide (Orinase). Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
• tell your doctor if you are on dialysis and if you have or have ever had heart failure or kidney disease.
• tell your doctor if you plan to become pregnant or are breast-feeding.

Special dietary instructions

If your doctor prescribes a low-salt or low-sodium diet, follow these directions carefully.

What to do if you forget a dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Side Effects

Minor Side Effects

Irbesartan may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• runny nose
• sore throat
• diarrhea
• heartburn
• excessive tiredness

Severe Side Effects

Some side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately:

• swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
• hoarseness
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• hives
• fainting

Irbesartan may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.

If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at http://www.fda.gov/MedWatch/report.htm] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].

Storage conditions needed for this medication

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

Symptoms of overdose may include:

• dizziness
• fainting
• rapid or pounding heartbeat

Other information

Keep all appointments with your doctor. Your blood pressure should be checked regularly to determine your response to irbesartan.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

Brand names

• Avapro®

Brand names of combination products

• Avalide® containing Irbesartan and Hydrochlorothiazide