Avalide (Irbesartan/HCTZ)

Avalide Information:

Avalide (generic name: Irbesartan Hydrochlorothiazide) is a combination medication used for the treatment of high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. The active ingredients are irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide. Irbesartan is an angiotensin II receptor, and it works by stopping the blood vessels from narrowing which increases blood flow and thus lowers blood pressure. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic (water pill) and helps to prevent the body from absorbing too much salt. Too much salt increases the blood pressure, so by preventing the absorption of salt this lowers the blood pressure. In patients with high blood pressure , the blood vessels become restricted which increases blood pressure. This puts a strain on the heart by increasing its need for oxygen, which can be fatal and can lead to heart disease. Many patients with hypertension do not have any symptoms at all, which is why it has been dubbed “the silent killer”, it is therefore recommended that after age 60 you have your blood pressure checked on a regular basis – at least once every 6 months. Some people may experience symptoms such as dizziness and feelings of nausea. Hypertension is more common in women than men and the risk increases with age. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent angina, blood clots, heart disease, kidney failure, and stroke.

Avalide Side Effects:

As with any drug, there may be side effects from taking Avalide including dry cough, heartburn, muscle pain, dizziness, drowsiness, headache and runny/stuff nose. More serious side effects may include feeling faint, chest pain, feeling short of breath, fever, swelling, rapid weight gain, changes in urination, jaundice, dry mouth, increased thirst and restlessness. If you experience any side effects you must seek medical attention immediately for safety.

Avalide Directions:

You should follow the instructions of the doctor who prescribed Avalide to you. Directions and dosage information can also be found on the pack or leaflet inside the pack. Avalide comes in tablet form, in strengths of 12.5mg/150mg and 12.5mg/300mg. You should swallow Avalide whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew tablets as this may result in too much of the drug being released which may have undesirable effects. Avalide should be stored at room temperature away from direct sunlight and heat.

Avalide Precautions:

If you are allergic to any of the ingredients of Avalide, you should avoid taking it and inform your doctor. You must consult your doctor if you have any pre-existing medical conditions including liver or kidney disease, congestive heart failure, low/high potassium levels, asthma, allergies, gout, lupus, diabetes and allergies to sulfa drugs. You must consult your doctor if you are taking any other medications as they may interact with Avalide, including other blood pressure medications, steroids, lithium, cholestyramine, insulin or diabetic medications, barbiturates, diuretics, aspirin of NSAIDs, muscle relaxers and narcotics. It is important that you inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive or breastfeeding as Avalide may cause harm to unborn and new born babies.