Drug Name: Avapro
Brand Names: Avapro
Generic Name: Irbesartan
Uses: Avapro belongs to the family of drugs called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. It is similar to losartan and valsartan. Angiotensin II is a chemical that when attaches to the arteries and veins of the body will cause it to narrow. This reaction will cause an increase in the blood pressure. Avapro, like the two drugs, blocks this chemical and prevents it from connecting to the arteries and veins and in turn treats the high blood pressure produced by the reaction. The drug is also used to stave off damage to the kidneys in people with type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. Taking avapro will delay the need for a dialysis and a kidney transplant.
How to use: Avapro comes in tablets. These may be in 75, 150 or 300mg. It may be prescribed alone or used alongside other medications. It is usually taken once a day and must be taken regularly at the same time each day for it to be effective. The reaction the drug may take a couple of weeks to reach the full effect. You need to continue taking avapro even if feel that you are already well. For the treatment of high blood pressure, the recommended starting dose is at 150mg once a day. This dosage may increase to 300mg a day. Using avapro for kidney damage from diabetes, you will have a dose of 300mg once a day.
Side Effects: The most common side effects of avapro are diarrhea, which occurs in 1 out of 30 persons, fatigue and respiratory tract infection. For people taking avapro for kidney disease, the most common side effect is dizziness. Less common side effects include heartburn and indigestion. There have also been rare cases of bloating, arthritis, bronchitis, bruising, chest pain, chills, nose bleeds, muscle weakness, vision problems and wheezing.
Precautions: In using avapro for the treatment of kidney disease, caution must be followed in the use of the drug. Dialysis and high doses of diuretics may cause a depletion of your body’s water supply. In this situation if you are taking avapro this will cause a severe drop in your blood pressure. People who are allergic to avapro may not use the drug. Pregnant mothers should also not use avapro as it may cause injuries and even death to the unborn child.
Drug Interaction: Hydrochlorothiazide and spironolactone which increases the concentration of potassium and other potassium supplements interact with avapro. Contact your doctor if you are taking any of these other medications. Dosage adjustments may be needed.
Overdose: Low blood pressure and having an abnormally slow or rapid heartbeat are the symptoms exhibited in the case of an overdose in avapro. Get immediate medical attention in case of an overdose.
Missed Dose: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next one, just skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. You should never double up your dosage.
Storage: Avapro should be stored at room temperature, 15 to 30 degrees C or 59 to 86 degrees F.
Additional Avapro informations:
Health Square for a detailed information on Avapro
Drug Store for additional information
