Why is this medication
prescribed?
Telmisartan
is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high
blood pressure. Telmisartan is in a class of medications called
angiotensin II receptor antagonists. It works by blocking the action of
certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more
smoothly.
How should this medicine be
used?
Telmisartan
comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day with
or without food. To help you remember to take telmisartan, take it
around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your
prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to
explain any part you do not understand. Take telmisartan exactly as
directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than
prescribed by your doctor.
Your
doctor may start you on a low dose of telmisartan and gradually
increase your dose.
Telmisartan
controls high blood pressure but does not cure it. Continue to take
telmisartan even if you feel well. Do not stop taking telmisartan
without talking to your doctor.
Other uses for this medicine
Telmisartan
is also used sometimes to treat congestive heart failure. Talk to your
doctor about the possible risks of using this medication for your
condition.
This
medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or
pharmacist for more information.
What special precautions
should I follow?
Before
taking telmisartan,
- tell your doctor and
pharmacist if you are allergic to telmisartan or any other medications.
- tell your doctor and
pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins,
nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Be sure to
mention any of the following: anticoagulants ('blood thinners') such as
warfarin (Coumadin); digoxin (Lanoxin); and diuretics ('water pills').
Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor
you carefully for side effects.
- tell your doctor if you have
or have ever had heart failure or kidney or liver disease.
- tell your doctor if you plan
to become pregnant or are breast-feeding.
What special dietary
instructions should I follow?
If your
doctor prescribes a low-salt or low-sodium diet, follow these
directions carefully.
What should I do if I forget a
dose?
Take
the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost
time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular
dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
What side effects can this
medication cause?
Telmisartan
may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are
severe or do not go away:
- runny nose
- sore throat
- back pain
- sinus pain
- diarrhea
Some
side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but
if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately:
- swelling of the face,
throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- hoarseness
- difficulty breathing or
swallowing
- fainting
Telmisartan
may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual
problems while taking this medication.
What storage conditions are
needed for this medicine?
Keep
this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of
reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess
heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that
is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the
proper disposal of your medication.
In case of emergency/overdose
In case
of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.
If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency
services at 911.
Symptoms
of overdose may include:
- dizziness
- fainting
- rapid or pounding heartbeat
What other information should
I know?
Keep
all appointments with your doctor. Your blood pressure should be
checked regularly to determine your response to telmisartan.
Do not
let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions
you have about refilling your prescription.
