Atacand

Generic name: Candesartan cilexetil

What is Atacand?

Atacand is used to treat both high blood pressure as well as heart failure. This drug belongs to a family of medications known as angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). This type of medication stops a hormone called angiotensin II from attaching to your blood vessels. Angiotensin II normally causes arteries to narrow. As a result of taking Atacand, the blood vessels relax and widen, and your blood pressure is reduced.

What is the most important information I should know about Atacand?

Atacand should not be taken during pregnancy; this drug may cause severe birth defects.

Symptoms of abnormally low blood pressure, such as dizziness, lightheadedness, feeling faint, or weakness, which can be severe, may occur if you take Atacand and are dehydrated or have low levels of salt in the blood.

Atacand can also cause an increase in potassium levels in your blood (hyperkalemia), especially in heart failure patients. During treatment with Atacand in patients with heart failure, monitoring of serum potassium is recommended when your doctor increases your dose and periodically thereafter.

Who should not take Atacand?

Do not take Atacand if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Atacand?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Atacand. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have liver or kidney problems. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are nursing.

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.

High blood pressure

Adults: The usual dose of Atacand is 16 milligrams (mg) once a day. Atacand can be given once or twice daily, with a total dose equal to 8-32 mg.

Heart failure

Adults: The usual dose of Atacand is 4 mg a day, with a target dose of 32mg a day, which is achieved by doubling the dose at approximately 2-week intervals, as tolerated.

How should I take Atacand?

Atacand can be taken with or without food. If this drug does not make your blood pressure any better, it can be given with a diuretic, or other medications.

What should I avoid while taking Atacand?

Avoid becoming pregnant while being treated with Atacand, as this can cause severe harm to your unborn baby.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Atacand?

Taking Atacand with lithium may cause an increase in the concentration of lithium in the blood.

What are the possible side effects of Atacand?

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: back pain, cold symptoms, dizziness, runny/stuffy nose, sore throat

Symptoms of abnormally low blood pressure include: dizziness, feeling faint or weak, lightheadedness

Can I receive Atacand if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are nursing. Atacand should not be taken if you are pregnant, as it may cause severe birth defects. Also, this drug may pass into your breast milk.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Atacand?

If you miss a dose of Atacand, be sure to take your dose as soon as you remember. However, do not take more than your prescribed dose on any one day.

How should I store Atacand?

Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container.