Micardis HCT
Generic Name: Telmisartan
What is Micardis HCT?
Micardis HCT contains two different types of medications that work together to help lower your blood pressure. Telmisartan is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist and hydrochlorothiazide (HCT) is a diuretic (water pill).What is the most important information I should know about Micardis HCT?
Your doctor will prescribe Micardis HCT only when other drugs (including Micardis) have not adequately lowered your blood pressure.If Micardis HCT is taken during your second or third trimester of pregnancy, it can cause serious injury and even death to your unborn baby. If you become pregnant while taking Micardis HCT, stop taking it and tell your doctor immediately.
Use Micardis HCT with caution if you have been diagnosed with liver disease.
Micardis HCT may make you feel faint and dizzy during the first few days of therapy. If this occurs, contact your doctor immediately.
If you become dehydrated while taking Micardis HCT, your blood pressure may drop too low and you may feel lightheaded or dizzy. Stay sufficiently hydrated while taking Micardis HCT to prevent this from occurring.
Rarely, Micardis HCT can cause an allergic reaction. The chances of this occurring after taking Micardis HCT are increased if you have a history of allergies or bronchial asthma.
Micardis HCT can alter the normal levels of electrolytes in your blood. Your doctor may monitor your electrolyte levels by periodically performing blood tests.
Micardis HCT can increase your blood sugar levels. If you use insulin or oral diabetes medications, your requirements may change. During your therapy, it is very important that you regularly monitor your blood sugar levels, and report any changes to your doctor.
Who should not take Micardis HCT?
Do not take Micardis HCT if you have ever had an allergic reaction or hypersensitivity to Micardis HCT or any of its ingredients, or if you are allergic to sulfonamide-type medications.Do not take Micardis HCT if you do not produce urine or if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant, stop taking Micardis HCT and call your doctor right away.
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Micardis HCT?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Micardis HCT. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have liver or kidney disease, lupus (disease that affects the immune system), gout (severe and painful inflammation of the joints), diabetes, severe heart failure, are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, or if you 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 is 40/12.5 milligrams (mg) (40 mg of telmisartan and 12.5 mg of hydrochlorothiazide) taken once daily. Your doctor may increase your dose based on your response.
How should I take Micardis HCT?
Micardis HCT should be taken at the same time every day and can be taken with or without food.What should I avoid while taking Micardis HCT?
You should avoid becoming excessively dehydrated while taking Micardis HCT; this may cause low blood pressure and lead to lightheadedness or dizziness. This can happen from excessive sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea.What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Micardis HCT?
If Micardis HCT 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 Micardis HCT with the following: alcohol, other blood pressure drugs, cholestyramine and colestipol, corticosteroids, diabetes medications, including insulin, digoxin, lithium, narcotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), potassium supplements, or salt substitutes that contain potassium.What are the possible side effects of Micardis HCT?
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: upper respiratory tract infections, back pain, sinus pain, diarrhea, fatigue, dizziness
Can I receive Micardis HCT if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
You should not take Micardis HCT if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. If taken during your second or third trimester of pregnancy, Micardis HCT can cause serious injury and even death to your unborn baby. If you become pregnant while taking Micardis HCT, you should stop taking it and tell your doctor immediately.The effects of Micardis HCT during breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed while taking Micardis HCT.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Micardis HCT?
If you miss a dose of Micardis HCT, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and return to your normal dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Micardis HCT?
Store at room temperature.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
