Irbesartan

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Aprovel, Dynarb, Irbewin, Irtanel

Popular combinations:

CoAprovel, Co-Irbewin

Drug group:

Vasodilator and antihypertensive drug

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

• Irbesartan is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure)
• It is also used to protect the kidneys in people with Type 2 diabetes who have hypertension and impaired kidney function

How does it work?

• Irbesartan is an angiotensin II blocker – a type of vasodilator drug
• Unlike ACE inhibitors, irbesartan does not cause a persistent dry cough

How should it be used?

Do not become dehydrated, you may experience an exaggerated drop in blood pressure

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Usual maintenance dose: 150mg daily, can be increased to 300mg if needed
• People >75 years or on haemodialysis: 75mg daily

How quickly will it start to work?

Blood pressure lowered within 1–2 weeks, maximum beneficial effect may take 4–6 weeks

How long will the effects last?

24 hours

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop the drug without consulting your doctor 
                                

Is it safe for prolonged use?

No special problems, blood potassium levels and kidney function may be monitored.

What are the possible side effects?

Adverse effects are usually mild and transient. The following have been reported:

• More common: dizziness, fatigue, flushing, nausea
• Less common: headache, muscle/joint pains
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: rash, swelling of the lips/face

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: heart problems (including heart failure), kidney problems or stenosis of the kidney’s arteries, lactose/galactose intolerance or glucose/galactose malabsortion
• Other medicines: diuretics, potassium supplements, potassium-sparing diuretics, ciclosporin, other antihypertensives, lithium, NSAIDs, ACE inhibitors (e.g. enalapril)
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not prescribed, safety not established
• Children: Not prescribed
• Over 60: Reduced dose may be necessary
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, the drug can cause dizziness and fatigue
• Alcohol: Regular intake of excessive alcohol may raise the blood pressure