Avalide
Generic Name: Irbesartan
What is Avalide?
Avalide is used to lower high blood pressure in adults. Avalide contains two prescription medicines in one tablet: irbesartan (Avapro), an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB), and hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic (water pill).What is the most important information I should know about Avalide?
Avalide should not be taken during pregnancy; this drug may cause severe birth defects.Your blood pressure should be checked before and during Avalide therapy. Avalide may make your blood pressure too low, especially during the first days of use. If you faint, stop taking Avalide until you can talk to your doctor.
Who should not take Avalide?
Do not take Avalide if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.Do not take Avalide if you are pregnant. If you get pregnant, stop taking Avalide and call your doctor right away.
Do not take Avalide if you have trouble urinating (because of kidney problems) or if you are allergic to medicines that contain sulfonamides.
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Avalide?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Avalide. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, including history of liver disease, kidney problems, systemic lupus erythematosus (disease that affects the immune system), if you are on lithium, are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Adults: The usual starting dose of Avalide is one 150/12.5-milligram (mg) tablet once daily.
It will take 2 to 4 weeks for Avalide to reach its maximum effectiveness. If your blood pressure does not respond to the initial dosage, your doctor may increase the dose to a higher strength tablet.
How should I take Avalide?
Avalide can be taken with or without food.What should I avoid while taking Avalide?
Avoid becoming dehydrated while taking Avalide. Inadequate fluid intake or loss of fluids may result in low blood pressure, leading to lightheadedness or fainting. Seek medical attention if symptoms of hypersensitivity reactions (such as fever, itchyness, shortness of breath) or electrolyte imbalance (such as dry mouth, thirst, weakness, fatigue) occur.What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Avalide?
If Avalide is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Avalide with the following: acetaminophen; alcohol; barbiturates such as phenobarbital and secobarbital; cholestyramine; colestipol; insulin; lithium; narcotic painkillers such as codeine phosphate, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen sodium; other blood pressure medications; oral diabetes drugs; and steroids such as prednisone.What are the possible side effects of Avalide?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: dizziness, electrolyte imbalances (symptoms include dry mouth, thirst, weakness, fatigue), headache, flu symptoms, upper respiratory infection
Can I receive Avalide if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
If you become pregnant while taking Avalide, stop taking it and call your doctor right away. Avalide can harm an unborn baby, causing injury and even death. If you plan to become pregnant, talk to your doctor about other treatment options before taking Avalide.Avalide appears in breast milk and can affect the nursing infant. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop breastfeeding while you are taking Avalide.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Avalide?
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Avalide?
Store at room temperature.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
