WARNING

Taking Prestalia, like any medication, comes with potential risks and side effects. It’s important to be aware of these risks and discuss them with your healthcare provider before starting the medication. Here is a brief overview of the risks associated with taking Prestalia:

• Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure): Prestalia can cause a decrease in blood pressure, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting. This is especially important when rising from a sitting or lying position.
• Edema (Swelling): Amlodipine, one of the components of Prestalia, may cause peripheral edema, leading to swelling in the ankles, feet, or legs.
• Cough: ACE inhibitors, including perindopril in Prestalia, can cause a persistent cough in some individuals.
• Kidney Impairment: Prestalia may affect kidney function, and individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions may be at a higher risk of experiencing kidney problems.
• Hyperkalemia (High Potassium Levels): ACE inhibitors like perindopril can increase potassium levels, leading to hyperkalemia, which may be a concern for individuals with kidney problems or those taking other medications that affect potassium levels.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Prestalia, resulting in symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Pregnancy Risk: ACE inhibitors like perindopril may pose risks to a developing fetus, particularly in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. It’s important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Prestalia may interact with other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking.

This is not an exhaustive list, and individual responses to Prestalia may vary. Your healthcare provider will assess your specific health situation, considering factors such as your medical history, current medications, and overall health, to determine whether Prestalia is an appropriate choice for you.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions, attend regular check-ups, and promptly report any unusual or severe symptoms while taking Prestalia. If you have concerns about the risks associated with Prestalia, discuss them with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Prestalia is a medication that combines perindopril and amlodipine, two different classes of antihypertensive drugs. Perindopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, and amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker. This combination is typically prescribed to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).

Perindopril works by relaxing blood vessels and reducing the production of certain chemicals that can raise blood pressure, while amlodipine relaxes blood vessels and improves blood flow by blocking calcium channels.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are some general guidelines on how Prestalia may be used:

• Dosage: The dosage of Prestalia will be determined by your healthcare provider based on your individual health condition, response to the medication, and other factors. It’s important to take the prescribed dosage exactly as directed.
• Administration: Prestalia is typically taken once daily. You may take it with or without food, but it’s essential to be consistent with the administration (i.e., take it at the same time each day).
• Swallowing the Tablet: Prestalia tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets unless instructed otherwise by your healthcare provider.
• Follow-up: Attend any follow-up appointments scheduled by your healthcare provider. Blood pressure monitoring and other assessments may be conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the medication.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Precautions: Inform your healthcare provider about any other medications, supplements, or medical conditions you have before starting Prestalia. Certain medications or conditions may interact with Prestalia or require adjustments to the dosage.

Always consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for specific and personalized instructions on how to use Prestalia based on your individual health profile. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Other uses for this medicine

As of last update, Prestalia is primarily indicated for hypertension. Other uses may be determined by healthcare professionals based on individual patient needs. It’s crucial to consult with a doctor to determine the suitability of Prestalia for specific conditions.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for Prestalia, here are some general considerations. However, this information is not a substitute for professional medical advice, and specific precautions may vary for each individual:

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding, it’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider. Certain medications, including Prestalia, may have potential risks during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider of any known allergies to perindopril, amlodipine, or other ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, or any other medications.
• Kidney Function: If you have kidney problems or are on dialysis, your healthcare provider may need to adjust the dosage of Prestalia.
• Liver Function: Individuals with liver disease or impaired liver function may require special monitoring and dosage adjustments.
• Salt/Volume Depletion: If you are on a low-salt diet or have conditions that lead to volume depletion (e.g., diarrhea or vomiting), your healthcare provider should be aware as these conditions may affect how Prestalia works.
• Concomitant Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements, that you are taking. Certain medications may interact with Prestalia, affecting its efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Blood Pressure Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood pressure is essential while taking Prestalia. Your healthcare provider will likely schedule follow-up appointments to assess the medication’s effectiveness and adjust the dosage if needed.

Always follow the specific guidance provided by your healthcare provider and pharmacist, and don’t hesitate to ask questions if you have concerns or experience side effects. Additionally, since medical information can change, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for the most up-to-date information regarding Prestalia and its precautions.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There may be specific dietary considerations based on your overall health and medical condition. However, in general:

• Salt Intake: Your healthcare provider may advise you on dietary changes, including salt intake. It’s essential to follow any dietary recommendations provided.
• Grapefruit Interaction: Amlodipine, one of the components of Prestalia, may interact with grapefruit. Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Prestalia, follow these general guidelines:

• Take it as Soon as You Remember: If you remember shortly after the missed dose, take it as soon as possible.
• Skip if Close to Next Dose: If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Notify Your Healthcare Provider: If you frequently forget doses or have concerns about missed doses, consult with your healthcare provider.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Prestalia, a combination medication containing perindopril (an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor or ACE inhibitor) and amlodipine (a calcium channel blocker), can cause side effects. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary. It’s important to be aware of potential side effects and promptly inform your healthcare provider if you notice any unusual or severe symptoms. The most common side effects of Prestalia include:

• Swelling: Amlodipine, one of the components of Prestalia, can cause peripheral edema, which is swelling in the ankles, feet, or legs. This is due to fluid accumulation.
• Cough: ACE inhibitors, including perindopril, may cause a persistent cough in some individuals. If you develop a bothersome cough, inform your healthcare provider.
• Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Changes in blood pressure may lead to dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up from a sitting or lying position.
• Flushing or Warmth: Some people may experience flushing or warmth, particularly in the face.
• Headache: Headaches are a common side effect of many antihypertensive medications, including Prestalia.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or fatigued is another potential side effect.
• Nausea: Some individuals may experience nausea, which can be mild to moderate.
• Palpitations: A sensation of rapid, strong, or irregular heartbeats may occur.
• Chest Pain: In rare cases, chest pain or discomfort may be reported.
• Other Side Effects: Additional side effects may occur, and it’s important to be aware of any changes in your health while taking Prestalia. This can include changes in kidney function, allergic reactions, or low blood pressure.

It’s crucial to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals may experience side effects not listed here. If you have concerns about the side effects of Prestalia or if you experience any symptoms that are worrisome or persistent, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

This list is not exhaustive, and individual responses to medications can vary. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and information based on your health status and medical history.

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

Storage:

• Temperature: Store Prestalia at room temperature, away from excessive heat and moisture.
• Container: Keep the medication in its original container or packaging to protect it from light.
• Childproofing: Store Prestalia out of the reach of children and pets.
• Specific Instructions: Follow any specific storage instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Disposal:

• Do Not Flush: Do not flush Prestalia down the toilet unless specifically instructed to do so.
• Dispose Safely: Properly dispose of unused or expired medications through a medication take-back program if available in your community.
• Consult Pharmacist: Ask your pharmacist about proper disposal methods if take-back programs are not available.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include:

• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Irregular heartbeat
• Difficulty breathing

What other information should I know?

• Regular Follow-ups: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your blood pressure and overall health.
• Lab Tests: Your healthcare provider may perform periodic lab tests to monitor kidney function and other parameters.
• Avoid Grapefruit: Amlodipine, one of the components of Prestalia, may interact with grapefruit. Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers (doctors, dentists, etc.) about your use of Prestalia before undergoing any surgical or dental procedures.
• Orthostatic Hypotension: Prestalia can cause a drop in blood pressure, leading to dizziness when standing up. Rise slowly from a sitting or lying position to minimize this risk.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of Prestalia with your healthcare provider.

Always follow the specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider and pharmacist. If you have questions or concerns about Prestalia or experience side effects, contact your healthcare provider promptly. This information is not exhaustive, and individual circumstances may vary, so consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice based on your health status and medical history.