Avalide

Common Name: irbesartan - hydrochlorothiazide

How does Avalide work?

This medication is a combination of two drugs that are used to reduce high blood pressure. Irbesartan belongs to a class of medications called angiotensin II blockers and helps to lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic or "water pill" that helps control blood pressure by getting rid of excess salt and water. This medication is most often prescribed when other drugs have been found not to be effective or to have side effects, and when a person's blood pressure is stabilized on irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide taken individually. Your doctor may choose to use this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you are unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Avalide?

Once the dose of each component (irbesartan and hydrochlorothizide) has been determined, the combination tablets (Avalide®) can be started. The dose ranges from 1 tablet containing 150 mg irbesartan and 12.5 mg hydrochlorothiazide once daily to 1 tablet containing 300 mg irbesartan and 12.5 mg hydrochlorothiazide once daily. Tablets should be taken at approximately the same time each day, with or without food (but taken in the same manner each day). If you miss a dose but remember it within 12 hours, take it as soon as possible and then go back to your regular dose. Never double up on doses. If it is more than 12 hours later than your usual dose, skip that dose and carry on as usual with your next dose. It is important to take this medication regularly and to follow your doctor's instructions regarding monitoring blood pressure to ensure that you receive the maximum benefit from the medication. Irbesartan - hydrochlorothiazide should be stored at normal room temperature in a dry place (not in the bathroom).

What form(s) does Avalide come in?

Avalide® is available as tablets containing 150 mg irbesartan and 12.5 mg hydrochlorothiazide or as tablets containing 300 mg irbesartan and 12.5 mg hydrochlorothiazide. 150/12.5 mg: Each peach, oval tablet, with a heart shape imprinted on one side and "2775" on the other, contains irbesartan 150 mg and hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg. 300/12.5 mg: Each peach, oval tablet, with a heart shape imprinted on one side and "2776" on the other, contains irbesartan 300 mg and hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg. Non-medicinal ingredients: croscarmellose sodium, ferric oxide red, ferric oxide yellow, lactose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, pregelatinized starch, and silicon dioxide.

What should I NOT take with Avalide?

This medication should not be taken by: anyone who is allergic to any of the ingredients of the product anyone who is allergic to sulpha drugs pregnant women people with anuria (no urine flow)

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Avalide?

Pregnancy: Irbesartan - hydrochlorothiazide should not be taken while pregnant. If you discover you are pregnant while taking this medication, stop taking it and tell your doctor at once. Breast-feeding: Because of the possibility of serious side effects to the child, breast-feeding is generally not recommended while taking this medication. Discuss this with your doctor. Children: The safety and effectiveness of this drug for children are unknown. Low blood pressure: Occasionally, a larger-than-expected decrease in blood pressure occurs after taking this medication. In some cases, this happens after the first dose. It is more likely to occur if you take diuretics (water pills), have a reduced salt intake, are on dialysis, or are experiencing diarrhea or vomiting. Blood pressure should be monitored more often in these situations. Those with low blood pressure or those just starting to take this medication should move slowly from a reclining to an upright position to reduce the risk of dizziness. Medical conditions: Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions, as they may affect your use of this medication: congestive heart failure kidney disease liver disease lupus diabetes gout recent heart attack or stroke pancreatitis electrolyte imbalance (e.g., high low levels of potassium in blood) sulfa allergy