Micardis

Common Name: telmisartan

How does Micardis work?

Telmisartan is a member of the class of drugs known as angiotensin II receptor antagonists. These medications reduce blood pressure by blocking the actions of a chemical (angiotensin II) that causes blood vessels to constrict or tighten. When blood pressure is allowed to remain high for a long time, the blood vessels of the heart, kidneys and brain may become damaged. This puts a person at increased risk for heart attack and stroke as well as kidney failure and blindness. Keeping blood pressure in the normal range can reduce the risk of suffering these conditions. Your doctor may choose to use this medication for other conditions not listed here. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, please ask your doctor.

How should I use Micardis?

The recommended adult dose of telmisartan is 80 mg once a day at approximately the same time each day, with or without food. It will take about two weeks for reductions in blood pressure to become noticeable and another two weeks until the full effects of the medication are realized. People with reduced liver function are usually given 40 mg once daily to start. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are using the medication without consulting your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it is the next day before you remember, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Never double doses. It is important to take this medication regularly and to follow the doctor's instructions regarding blood pressure monitoring to ensure that you are getting the maximum benefit from the medication. Store telmisartan at normal room temperature in a dry place (not in the bathroom) and keep it out of the reach of children. Do not remove tablets from their blister pack until right before they are taken.

What form(s) does Micardis come in?

Micardis® is available as a white oblong tablet containing 40 mg or 80 mg telmisartan. Nonmedicinal ingredients include magnesium stearate, meglumine, povidone, sodium hydroxide, and sorbitol. The medication comes in blister packs of 28 (4 cards with 7 tablets each).

What should I NOT take with Micardis?

Telmisartan should not be taken by: anyone who is allergic to any of the ingredients of the product pregnant women

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Micardis?

Pregnancy: Telmisartan should not be taken during pregnancy. If you discover you are pregnant while taking this medication, stop taking the medication and tell your doctor at once. Breast-feeding: It is not known whether telmisartan is excreted in breast milk. Because of the potential for adverse effects, a decision should be made whether to stop nursing or to stop taking the medication. Discuss this with your doctor. Liver disease: People with liver disease should be cautious while taking telmisartan because the drug may not be cleared properly from the body, resulting in increased side effects. Kidney disease: Telmisartan may worsen kidney disease. People with this condition should be cautious while taking this medication. Low blood pressure: People with orthostatic hypotension (drop in blood pressure caused by standing up) should be cautious while taking telmisartan, as it can worsen the condition. The first time this medication is taken, it may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting. This may be reduced by taking the medication in a sitting position and being careful to rise slowly to a standing position. The dizziness usually improves after the first dose, but if the medication is stopped and then started again, it will reappear. The doctor may also adjust the dose.