Micardis
Telmisartan
Drug Class and Mechanism of Action of Micardis
Micardis belongs to a group of medicines called angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). Some other examples of angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are losartan, valsartan, olmesartan etc. They block the chemical angiotensin II to constrict blood vessels (arteries and veins). Due to prevention of constriction of blood vessels, blood pressure falls in patients with high blood pressure. The reduced blood pressure also makes it easier for the heart to pump blood more easily. FDA approved Micardis in November of 2000.
Therapeutic Uses of Micardis
Micardis is used in the treatment of high blood pressure or hypertension. High blood pressure reduction helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems.
Direction of use of Micardis
Micardis is usually taken orally once a day or as directed by your doctor. It can be taken with food or without food. To get the maximum benefit of Micardis, take it at the same time every day and this also helps to remember it.
Do not take potassium supplementation or salt substitutes containing potassium during treatment with Micardis, without consulting your doctor. Micardis can raise your blood potassium levels, which rarely can cause serious side effects such as muscle weakness or very slow heart beats (tachycardia) etc. Inform your doctor if you get any side effects of high potassium content.
The dosing of Micardis is based on the response and medical condition. For treating high blood pressure, it may take up to 4 weeks to get result properly. Do not stop taking Micardis, if you get better or if you are not getting desired result, without consulting your doctor. Monitor blood pressure regularly during therapy with Micardis for adjustment of dosing.
If You Miss a Dose of Micardis
If you miss a dose take it as soon as possible, if you remember on the same day (if you are taking single dose every day). If it is almost time for the next dose than skip the missed dose of Micardis and continue taking it as regular dosing schedule. Never take 2 doses of Micardis at once.
How to Store Micardis
Micardis should be stored at 77 degrees F or 25 degrees C. Micardis is very sensitive to moisture and you should not store it in your bathroom. Store it in a dry. Cool and dark place. Keep it out of reach of children. Brief storage between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) is permitted.
More Information About Micardis
Do not share it with others for whom it is not prescribed. To get best result stress reduction programs, exercise and dietary changes should be incorporated in your lifestyle. Consult your doctor or other health care provider about lifestyle changes that may be beneficial to you.
Laboratory and medical tests like kidney function, potassium blood level etc. should be performed periodically to monitor your progress and also to check for side effects while taking Micardis. Check your blood pressure regularly while taking this medication. Learn how to monitor your own blood pressure at home and ask your doctor if you have any question.
Precautions to be Taken While Taking Micardis
- Micardis should not be taken during pregnancy. Micardis can cause harm and may even cause death to growing fetus if taken during last six months of pregnancy. If you think you are pregnant during treatment with Micardis, consult your doctor. Discuss with your doctor regarding risks and benefits of using it during pregnancy. Use Micardis during first three months of pregnancy only if it is indicated clearly.
- It is not clearly known if Micardis is found in breast milk, but breast feeding is not recommended during treatment with Micardis, due to potential harm to the baby. Ask your doctor if you want to breast feed your baby.
- If you have to get some surgery or dental procedure done, you should inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking Micardis.
- Micardis can cause dizziness in the elderly more than young people. Old people may be more sensitive to Micardis and caution is required while giving Micardis to older people.
- Micardis may cause drowsiness and dizziness and these effects are more if alcohol or certain other medicine is taken along with it. Caution is required while engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Get up slowly when rising from a seated or lying position to minimize dizziness and lightheadedness.
- You should inform your doctor before taking any medication, about your past medical history especially if you have kidney disease, liver disease, high blood levels of potassium, any heart problems; severe dehydration and loss of electrolytes like sodium, poorly controlled diabetes mellitus, any allergies (especially to ACE inhibitors such as captopril, lisinopril) etc.
Possible Adverse Effects of Micardis
- Common and possible side effects of Micardis are dizziness, lightheadedness, blurred vision, or back pain and these are due to adjustment of your body to this medication. Consult your doctor if these problems persist or they become troublesome.
- You should inform your doctor immediately if serious side effects of Micardis occur. The serious side effects of Micardis are fainting, decreased sexual ability, change in the amount of urine production (highly unlikely but very serious side effect) etc.
- An allergic reaction or severe allergic reaction to Micardis is highly unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching; swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; severe dizziness, difficulty in breathing etc.
- If you notice any other side effects that are not mentioned above, you should consult your doctor immediately.
