Brand name:

Teveten HCT

Why is Teveten HCT prescribed?

Teveten HCT is a combination medication used in the treatment of high blood pressure. One component, eprosartan, belongs to a class of blood pressure medications that work by preventing the hormone angiotensin II from constricting the blood vessels, thus allowing blood to flow more freely and keeping blood pressure down. The other component, hydrochlorothiazide, is a diuretic that increases the output of urine, removing excess fluid from the body and thus lowering blood pressure.

Most important fact about Teveten HCT

You must take Teveten HCT regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Teveten HCT, and you must continue to take it even if you are feeling well. Teveten HCT does not cure high blood pressure; it merely keeps it under control.

How should you take Teveten HCT?

Take Teveten HCT regularly, once a day every day. Schedule it for the same time each day so that it's easier to remember.

--If you miss a dose...

Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature.

Teveten HCT side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe to continue using Teveten HCT.

• Side effects may include:
  Back pain, dizziness, fatigue, headache

Many other rare side effects have been reported by people taking the individual components of Teveten HCT. Be sure to tell your doctor about any new or unusual symptoms you suffer.

Why should Teveten HCT not be prescribed?

If you have ever had an allergic reaction to eprosartan, hydrochlorothiazide, or sulfa drugs, you should not take this medication. Also avoid Teveten HCT if you are unable to urinate.

Special warnings about Teveten HCT

Teveten HCT can cause an excessive drop in blood pressure, especially when you first begin taking it. If you feel light-headed or faint, let the doctor know about it. If you actually pass out, stop taking Teveten HCT and see your doctor immediately. The problem is more likely if you suffer from a lack of fluid, due either to inadequate intake or to excessive sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting.

Excessive fluid loss can also lead to a chemical imbalance in the body. Warning signs include dry mouth, thirst, diminished urination, weakness, lack of energy, drowsiness, restlessness, confusion, seizures, muscle pain, muscle fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and rapid heartbeat. Alert your doctor if you develop any of these symptoms.

If you have liver or kidney disease, diabetes, gout, or lupus erythematosus, Teveten HCT should be used with caution. This drug may bring out hidden diabetes. If you are already taking insulin or oral diabetes drugs, your dosage may have to be adjusted. If you have asthma or a history of allergies, you may be at greater risk of an allergic reaction to Teveten HCT.

This drug is not approved for children.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Teveten HCT

Unless your doctor approves, avoid potassium supplements and potassium-containing salt substitutes while taking Teveten HCT.

If Teveten HCT is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Teveten HCT with the following:

Alcohol
Barbiturates such as phenobarbital and Seconal
Cholestyramine (Questran)
Colestipol (Colestid)
Diuretics that leave potassium in the body, including amiloride, spironolactone, and triamterene
Insulin
Lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid)
Narcotic painkillers such as Demerol, OxyContin, and Percodan
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Aleve, Anaprox, and Motrin
Other blood pressure medications such as Procardia XL and Tenormin
Oral diabetes drugs such as Diabinese, DiaBeta, and Glucotrol
Steroid medications such as prednisone

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

When used in the second or third trimester of pregnancy, Teveten HCT can cause injury or even death to the unborn child. Alert your doctor as soon as you learn you are pregnant. Teveten HCT should be discontinued as soon as possible.

This drug is not recommended if you plan to breastfeed.

Recommended dosage for Teveten HCT

ADULTS

Overdosage

Little is known about overdosage with Teveten HCT. The most likely symptoms would be those of chemical imbalance triggered when the hydrochlorothiazide in the product flushes too much water from the system. These symptoms include thirst, diminished urination, weakness, drowsiness, restlessness, confusion, seizures, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, and rapid heartbeat. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.