Brand name:
Atacand
Pronounced: AT-uh-kand
Generic name:
Candesartan cilexetil
Why is Atacand prescribed?
Atacand controls high blood pressure. It works by blocking the
effect of a hormone called angiotensin II. Unopposed, this substance
prompts the blood vessels to contract, an action that tends to raise
blood pressure. Atacand relaxes and expands the blood vessels,
allowing pressure to drop. The drug may be prescribed alone or with
other blood pressure medications.
Most important fact about Atacand
You must take Atacand regularly for it to be effective. Since
blood pressure declines gradually, it may be a couple of weeks
before you get significant benefits from Atacand, and you must
continue taking it even though you feel well. Atacand does not cure
high blood pressure, it merely keeps it under control.
How should you take Atacand?
So you won't forget, make a habit of taking your dose of Atacand
around the same time every day. This medication can be taken with or
without food.
--If you miss a dose...
Take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your
next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular
schedule. Do not take 2 doses at the same time.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature in a tightly sealed container.
Atacand side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in
intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor
can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Atacand.
- Side effects may include:
Back pain,
dizziness,
respiratory tract infection
Why should Atacand not be prescribed?
If Atacand gives you an allergic reaction, you cannot continue
using it.
Special warnings about Atacand
Atacand can cause a severe drop in blood pressure, especially
when you first start taking the drug. The problem is more likely to
occur if your body's supply of water has been depleted by diuretics
(water pills). Symptoms include light-headedness, dizziness, and
faintness. Call your doctor if they occur. You may need to have your
dose adjusted.
If you have kidney or liver disease, or congestive heart failure,
Atacand must be used with caution.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Atacand
The chances of a drug interaction with Atacand are low. Check
with your doctor, however, before combining it with lithium
(Eskalith).
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Atacand can cause injury or even death to an unborn child when
used during the last 6 months of pregnancy. As soon as you learn
that you are pregnant, stop taking Atacand and call your doctor.
It is not known whether Atacand appears in breast milk; however,
because of the potential risks to the nursing infant, it's
considered best to avoid the drug while breastfeeding. You should
decide whether to give up nursing or discontinue Atacand.
Recommended dosage for Atacand
ADULTS
Overdosage
There have been few reports of overdose with Atacand. However,
the most likely results are low blood pressure, dizziness, and an
abnormally slow or rapid heartbeat. If you suspect an overdose, seek
medical attention immediately.
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