WARNING

Candesartan is generally well-tolerated, but like any medication, it carries some risks. Here are the potential risks associated with taking Candesartan:

• Hypotension: Candesartan can lower blood pressure, which may cause dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly.
• Hyperkalemia: It can increase potassium levels in the blood, which might lead to abnormal heart rhythms or other complications, particularly in people with kidney problems.
• Kidney function: Candesartan can affect kidney function, especially in individuals with existing kidney disease. Regular monitoring is recommended.
• Allergic reactions: Rarely, people may experience allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Pregnancy: Candesartan should not be used during pregnancy as it can harm the unborn baby, particularly in the second and third trimesters.
• Interactions: It can interact with other medications, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), potassium supplements, and certain diuretics, potentially affecting their effectiveness or causing adverse effects.
• Other side effects: Common side effects may include headache, back pain, tiredness, and upper respiratory tract infections.

It’s crucial to take Candesartan exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider and to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with them.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Candesartan is primarily prescribed for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure) and heart failure. It belongs to a class of medications known as angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), which work by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a substance in the body that constricts blood vessels and increases blood pressure.

How should this medicine be used?

How Candesartan should be used:

• Dosage: The dosage of Candesartan varies depending on the condition being treated and individual response. It is usually started at a low dose and gradually increased as tolerated by the patient.
• Administration: Candesartan is typically taken once daily, with or without food.
• Monitoring: Blood pressure should be monitored regularly during treatment to ensure effectiveness and detect any adverse effects.
• Compliance: It is important to take Candesartan exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Missing doses can affect its ability to control your condition.
• Adjunct therapy: Candesartan may be used alone or in combination with other medications to achieve optimal blood pressure control or manage heart failure.
• Special populations: Dosing adjustments may be necessary for individuals with impaired kidney function or those who are elderly.
• Pregnancy: Candesartan should not be used during pregnancy due to the risk of harm to the unborn baby. If you become pregnant while taking Candesartan, inform your doctor immediately.
• Side effects: While generally well-tolerated, Candesartan can cause side effects such as dizziness, headache, fatigue, and upper respiratory infections. Serious side effects are rare but can include allergic reactions and kidney problems.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, as Candesartan can interact with certain medications.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult them if you have any questions or concerns about taking Candesartan.

Other uses for this medicine

• Diabetic nephropathy: Candesartan can help slow the progression of kidney disease in people with type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.
• Preventing cardiovascular events: It may be used to reduce the risk of stroke, heart attack, or other cardiovascular events in certain high-risk individuals.
• Migraine prevention: Some studies suggest Candesartan may help prevent migraines in certain patients, although this use is less common and may require further research.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions for Candesartan:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Candesartan should not be used during pregnancy due to the risk of harm to the fetus. It is also not recommended while breastfeeding as it may pass into breast milk.
• Kidney function: Candesartan can affect kidney function, especially in individuals with pre-existing kidney disease. Regular monitoring of kidney function is essential.
• Liver function: Individuals with severe liver disease should use Candesartan with caution, as it may affect liver function.
• Electrolyte imbalance: Candesartan can increase potassium levels in the blood (hyperkalemia), particularly in patients with kidney problems or those taking potassium supplements. Regular monitoring of potassium levels is important.
• Hypotension: Candesartan can cause low blood pressure (hypotension), especially during the initial days of treatment or when the dosage is increased. This may result in dizziness or fainting. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how Candesartan affects you.
• Drug interactions: Candesartan may interact with other medications, including potassium-sparing diuretics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and certain antibiotics. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Allergic reactions: Seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and inform them of any medical conditions you have or medications you are taking before starting Candesartan. Regular check-ups and monitoring are crucial to ensure the medication is safe and effective for you.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions for Candesartan. However, it is generally advisable to maintain a healthy diet low in sodium (salt) and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to help manage blood pressure effectively. If you have any concerns about your diet while taking Candesartan, consult with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Candesartan, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Candesartan, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of Candesartan may include:

• Dizziness: Especially when standing up quickly.
• Headache: Mild to moderate headaches are commonly reported.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak.
• Upper respiratory tract infections: Such as the common cold or flu-like symptoms.
• Back pain: Muscle or joint discomfort in the back area.
• Low blood pressure (hypotension): This may cause symptoms such as dizziness or fainting, particularly at the beginning of treatment or with dose adjustments.
• Hyperkalemia: Elevated potassium levels in the blood, which can lead to abnormal heart rhythms (rarely).
• Kidney problems: In rare cases, Candesartan can affect kidney function, especially in individuals with pre-existing kidney disease.
• Allergic reactions: Rarely, severe allergic reactions may occur, characterized by symptoms like rash, itching, swelling of the face/throat, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

It’s important to note that not all side effects are listed here, and some individuals may experience side effects not mentioned. If you experience any unusual symptoms while taking Candesartan, especially those that are severe or persistent, notify your healthcare provider promptly. They can assess whether the symptoms are related to the medication and recommend appropriate actions.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal of Candesartan:

• Storage: Store Candesartan tablets at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep the medication in its original container with the lid tightly closed.
• Disposal: Dispose of any unused or expired Candesartan tablets according to local regulations or guidelines. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an overdose of Candesartan, seek emergency medical attention or contact a poison control center immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include:

• Extremely low blood pressure (hypotension)
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Fainting

What other information should I know?

• Regular monitoring: Your healthcare provider may periodically check your blood pressure, kidney function, and electrolyte levels while you are taking Candesartan.
• Avoid potassium supplements: Unless specifically instructed by your doctor, avoid taking potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium while using Candesartan, as this can increase potassium levels in your blood.
• Follow-up appointments: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider so they can monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.
• Inform healthcare providers: Make sure all healthcare providers involved in your care are aware that you are taking Candesartan, especially if you are scheduled for surgery or any medical procedures.
• Patient information leaflet: Read the patient information leaflet provided by your pharmacist before starting Candesartan and each time you get a refill. It contains important information about the medication’s uses, precautions, and potential side effects.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, as Candesartan can interact with certain medications.
• Lifestyle changes: Alongside taking Candesartan, maintain a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet low in sodium, limited alcohol consumption, and avoidance of smoking.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about Candesartan, you can help ensure safe and effective use of the medication as part of your treatment plan for hypertension or other conditions prescribed by your healthcare provider.