MedDataToolTelmisartan
Telmisartan is a medication used to treat high blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart-related events, like heart attacks and strokes. It works by blocking a substance in the body that causes blood vessels to tighten, helping them relax and lower blood pressure. You typically take it as a tablet once a day, with or without food. A key warning is that it should not be taken if you have a known allergy to it or similar medications. Additionally, it should not be used with a specific diabetes medication called aliskiren.
Uses
- Telmisartan is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).
- Lowering blood pressure helps reduce the risk of strokes and heart attacks.
- It is also used to lower the risk of heart-related issues in patients aged 55 and older who cannot take ACE inhibitors.
- Patients at high risk for heart problems may include those with a history of heart disease, stroke, or diabetes with organ damage.
- Telmisartan can be used alone or with other blood pressure medications.
Dosage
- For hypertension, the usual starting dose is 40 mg once daily.
- The dose can range from 40 mg to 80 mg once daily for hypertension.
- For cardiovascular risk reduction, the recommended dose is 80 mg once daily.
- Telmisartan can be taken with or without food.
- No initial dose adjustment is needed for elderly patients or those with kidney issues.
- Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
Side Effects
- Common side effects (occurring in 1% or more of patients) include back pain, sinusitis, and diarrhea.
- Serious side effects (occurring in 1% or more of patients) include intermittent claudication and skin ulcers.
- Other possible side effects include dizziness, headache, and fatigue.
- Some patients may experience allergic reactions or changes in kidney function.
- In rare cases, severe reactions like angioedema (swelling) may occur.
Warnings
Important- Avoid using telmisartan during pregnancy as it can harm the fetus.
- Monitor for low blood pressure, especially in patients who are dehydrated or on diuretics.
- Use caution in patients with liver or kidney problems, as telmisartan can affect these organs.
- Do not use telmisartan with ACE inhibitors, as this can increase the risk of kidney problems.
- Patients should be monitored for high potassium levels, especially if they have kidney issues.
Drug Interactions
- Aliskiren — do not use with telmisartan in patients with diabetes.
- Digoxin — may increase digoxin levels in the blood; monitor levels closely.
- Lithium — can increase lithium levels and toxicity; monitor levels during use.
- Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) — may worsen kidney function and reduce blood pressure-lowering effects.
- Avoid using aliskiren with telmisartan in patients with kidney impairment.
Source: View Full FDA-Approved Drug Label
Information simplified from FDA-approved drug labeling.
Patient Guide
What is this medicine used for?
- Used for treating high blood pressure.
- Also used to lower the risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Used in patients who cannot take ACE inhibitors.
How should I take it?
- Take this medicine once daily, with or without food.
- Dosage may vary based on your specific health needs.
Common side effects
- Back pain.
- Sinusitis.
- Diarrhea.
What should I avoid?
- Avoid using this medicine with an ACE inhibitor.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
When should I contact a doctor?
- Contact your doctor if you experience severe dizziness.
- Seek help if you have signs of allergic reactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Telmisartan work in the body?
Telmisartan blocks the effects of angiotensin II, lowering blood pressure.
Who should not take Telmisartan?
Patients with known hypersensitivity to Telmisartan should not take it.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Telmisartan?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for the next dose.
Can Telmisartan be taken with other medications?
Telmisartan may interact with drugs like digoxin and lithium, affecting their levels.
Is Telmisartan safe during pregnancy?
Telmisartan can harm the fetus and should be discontinued if pregnancy occurs.
Alternative Medications
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).