Perhaps the most widely known Irbesartan, Avapro, is a drug under the classification of angiotensin receptor blockers and is similar to losartan (Cozaar) and valsartan (Diovan). The main use of these drugs is to block a chemical called angiotensin II that causes the arteries and veins to narrow, from attaching to the arteries and veins (they are also called angiotensin II receptor blockers or ARBs for short). With the proper intake of these drugs, the heart doesn’t have to work as hard to pump blood because the arteries and veins dilate (become larger), and blood pressure is reduced.
Irbesartan was developed by Sanofi Research (now part of sanofi-aventis). It is introduced by sanofi-aventis and Bristol-Myers Squibb.
Different uses of Avapro
Irbesartan is mainly used to treat high blood pressure and hypertension. It may be used alone or in combination with other drugs. It is not as effective in black patients, with an effect that is similar to another class of drugs used to treat high blood pressure called ACE inhibitors–captopril (Capoten), enalapril (Vasotec), benazepril (Lotensin), and lisinopril (Zestril). Irbesartan is being studied in patients with congestive heart failure to determine if its blood pressure-lowering effects are beneficial to the heart.
Avapro may also delay progression of diabetic nephropathy and is also indicated for the reduction of renal disease progression in patients with type 2 diabetes and microalbuminuria or proteinuria.
Irbesartan is also available in a combination formulation with a low dose thiazide diuretic, invariably hydrochlorothiazide, to achieve an additive antihypertensive effect.
Proper dosage for Avapro
Irbesartan is usually taken only once a day. Most people with high blood pressure (hypertension) are recommended to take Avapro with a starting dosage of 150 milligram a day. Based on the blood pressure response and/or Avapro side effects, the dosage may be increased or decreased. With each change in dosage, it may take several weeks to see the full effects on blood pressure.
The recommended starting Avapro dosage for people with diabetic nephropathy is 300 mg a day.
This drug may be taken with or without food in the stomach and should be taken by mouth with a glass of water. Your Avapro dosage should be taken at the same time each day to maintain even levels of medicine in your blood. For Avapro to work properly, you have to take it as prescribed by your physician, avoid changing dosages based on your own presumptions.
If you do not take your Avapro dosage as scheduled, take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with normal dosing. Do not take a double dose.
Things to take note of before using Avapro
Although Avapro is a licensed prescription medication, there are several factors to consider before using this drug such as the medical condition you are being treated for, other medical conditions you may have, other medications you may be currently taking and how you respond to Avapro that will show its effectivity on your body.
Before taking Irbesartan, make sure to inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies because it may include inactive ingredients, which can trigger allergies or other problems. Remember as well to tell your physician your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, liver disease.
This drug can make you feel dizzy so remember to be cautious when doing any activities. Limit alcoholic beverages. Pregnant women and nursing mothers are not advised to take this drug as this drug can cause injury and even death to the fetus.
Possible side effects of Avapro
The most common side effects with irbesartan are diarrhea (occurring in 1 in 30 persons) and abdominal pain or heartburn (occurring in 1 in 50 persons).
