Atacand

Drug Uses

Atacand is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that is used in combination with other medicines to treat high blood pressure. It may also be used for treating heart failure and other conditions as determined by your doctor.

How it is taken

The best way to take is as recommended by your doctor. However, Atacand comes in a pill form that may be taken with or without food by mouth. You may also check dosage instructions on the product label.

Drug Class & Mechanism

Atacand is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that works by relaxing blood vessels and thereby helps reduce blood pressure.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose of Atacand, then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Storage

Store it at room temperature (between between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) in an air tight container protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.
 

You must not take Atacand if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or you are pregnant.

Certain drugs can interact with Atacand and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking.

Atacand may take up to 4 to 6 weeks to produce its maximum effect. In the first couple of weeks, some patients experience a feeling of being tired or run down. This is common and do not stop taking the medicine even if this occurs.

Combine it with lifestyle changes (not smoking, weight loss, exercise, a low-salt diet) to enhance its efficiency.

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using Atacand. It must not be used after the third month of pregnancy as it may cause injury or even death to the fetus.

It is unknown whether Atacand is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Use with extreme caution in children.

Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of the drug.

Periodic lab tests may be recommended to monitor your health while taking the drug. Ensure that you do not miss any lab tests.

Some of the common side effects of Atacand are dizziness or lightheadedness, headache, sore throat and upper respiratory tract infection. 

Other severe side effects include allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue),  chest pain, difficulty swallowing, fainting, persistent fever or sore throat, decreased urination, hoarseness, irregular or slow heartbeat, shortness of breath, muscle pain or tenderness, unusual tiredness or weakness, yellowing of the skin or eyes.

You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.