Tarka
Generic Name: Verapamil
What is Tarka?
Tarka is used to treat high blood pressure. It combines two blood pressure medications: an ACE inhibitor (trandolapril) and a calcium channel blocker (verapamil hydrochloride).What is the most important information I should know about Tarka?
Tarka may cause injury or death to an unborn baby if taken after the third month of pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant while taking Tarka, stop taking Tarka immediately and tell your doctor right away.Doctors usually prescribe Tarka for patients who have been taking one of its components-trandolapril or sustained-release verapamil-without showing improvement. Tarka must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may take a few weeks before you get the full benefit of Tarka. You must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Tarka does not cure high blood pressure; it only keeps it under control.
Who should not take Tarka?
Do not take Tarka if you are allergic to any of its ingredients or to blood pressure medications known as ACE inhibitors, such as enalapril or lisinopril. You cannot use Tarka if you have low blood pressure, certain types of heart disease or an irregular heartbeat, or if you have ever developed a swollen throat and difficulty swallowing (angioedema) while taking an ACE inhibitor.What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Tarka?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Tarka. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you are undergoing surgery or if you have a history of angioedema, collagen vascular disease (a connective tissue disorder), diabetes, Duchenne's dystrophy (the most common type of muscular dystrophy), heart disease or heart failure, kidney or liver disease.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: Tarka comes in 4 strengths of trandolapril and sustained-release verapamil. Your doctor will prescribe a dose of Tarka that is close to the doses you were taking separately.
Elderly or kidney or liver impairment: If you are over 65 years old, you may be more sensitive to Tarka. Your doctor will monitor your blood pressure more closely and adjust your medication dose accordingly. Likewise, if you have liver or kidney disease, your doctor will adjust your dosage accordingly.
How should I take Tarka?
Take each dose with food, exactly as prescribed. Do not break, crush, or chew this medication. Swallow the pills whole.What should I avoid while taking Tarka?
Tarka may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities.Avoid alcohol while taking Tarka. Alcohol may further lower blood pressure and increase drowsiness and dizziness.
Do not use salt substitutes or potassium supplements while taking Tarka. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Tarka and could lead to potentially dangerous effects.
Tarka sometimes causes a severe drop in blood pressure. The danger is especially great if you have been taking water pills (diuretics), or if you have heart disease, kidney disease, or a potassium or salt imbalance. Excessive sweating, severe diarrhea, and vomiting are also dangerous because they can deplete the body of water. This can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure. If you feel lightheaded or faint, have chest pain, or feel your heart racing, lie down and contact your doctor immediately.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Tarka?
If Tarka is taken with certain other medications, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Tarka with the following: amiloride, beta-blockers (such as atenolol and propranolol), carbamazepine, cimetidine, cyclosporine, digoxin, disopyramide, flecainide, furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide, lithium, phenobarbital, potassium supplements, quinidine, rifampin, spironolactone, theophyllineBecause Tarka can increase the potassium levels in your blood, you should avoid salt substitutes that contain potassium unless your doctor approves.
What are the possible side effects of Tarka?
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: constipation, cough, dizziness, headache, heartbeat irregularities, upper respiratory tract infection
Call your doctor right away if you experience swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; swelling of the arms and legs; and difficulty swallowing or breathing.
Because another ACE inhibitor, captopril, has been known to cause serious blood disorders, your doctor will check your blood regularly while you are taking Tarka. If you develop signs of infection such as a sore throat or a fever, you should contact your doctor at once.
Can I receive Tarka if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Do not take Tarka during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Tell your doctor immediately if you are preganant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Tarka?
Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Never take two doses at the same time.How should I store Tarka?
Store at room temperature.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
