WARNING

Aliskiren is a medication primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). While generally safe for many individuals, like any medication, it carries potential risks and side effects. Here’s a brief overview:

• Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure): Aliskiren can sometimes cause a drop in blood pressure, leading to symptoms like dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly.
• Kidney Problems: Some individuals may experience worsening kidney function or elevated levels of potassium in the blood while taking aliskiren, particularly if they already have kidney issues.
• Allergic Reactions: In rare cases, aliskiren can cause allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Hyperkalemia: Aliskiren may increase potassium levels in the blood, which can be dangerous, especially for individuals with kidney problems or those taking potassium supplements or certain other medications that also increase potassium levels.
• Birth Defects: Aliskiren is not recommended during pregnancy as it may cause harm to the fetus, particularly in the second and third trimesters. It is important to use effective contraception while taking aliskiren.
• Interaction with other medications: Aliskiren can interact with other medications, particularly other blood pressure medications, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), potassium supplements, and certain antibiotics, increasing the risk of side effects or reducing the effectiveness of either medication.
• Gastrointestinal Effects: Some individuals may experience gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting while taking aliskiren.
• Cough: Although less common than with other types of blood pressure medications like ACE inhibitors, some people may experience a dry cough while taking aliskiren.

It’s essential to discuss any potential risks and side effects with a healthcare provider before starting aliskiren or any other medication. They can provide guidance on whether aliskiren is suitable for an individual’s specific medical condition and overall health profile.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Aliskiren is a medication primarily prescribed to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It belongs to a class of drugs known as direct renin inhibitors. Renin is an enzyme produced by the kidneys that plays a crucial role in regulating blood pressure by initiating a cascade of biochemical reactions that ultimately lead to blood vessel constriction. By inhibiting renin, aliskiren helps to relax blood vessels, which in turn lowers blood pressure.

Aliskiren is often prescribed alone or in combination with other antihypertensive medications, such as diuretics or calcium channel blockers, to effectively manage high blood pressure.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how aliskiren is typically used:

• Dosage: The dosage of aliskiren varies depending on the individual’s medical condition and response to treatment. It is usually taken once daily, with or without food.
• Formulation: Aliskiren is available in tablet form for oral administration.
• Starting Dose: The usual starting dose for most adults with hypertension is 150 mg once daily. However, some individuals may require a higher dose, up to 300 mg once daily, to achieve adequate blood pressure control.
• Adjustments: The dosage may be adjusted by a healthcare provider based on the individual’s blood pressure response. It’s important to follow the dosage instructions provided by the healthcare provider and not to adjust the dose without consulting them.
• Combination Therapy: Aliskiren may be used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive medications, such as diuretics, calcium channel blockers, beta-blockers, or angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, depending on the individual’s blood pressure goals and overall health status.
• Regular Monitoring: Blood pressure should be monitored regularly while taking aliskiren to assess the effectiveness of the medication and to detect any potential side effects or complications.
• Duration of Treatment: Aliskiren is typically used as a long-term treatment for hypertension to help control blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications associated with high blood pressure, such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems.

It’s essential to take aliskiren exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider and to inform them of any other medications, supplements, or medical conditions before starting treatment, as aliskiren can interact with other drugs and may not be suitable for everyone.

Other uses for this medicine

Some potential off-label uses or areas of ongoing research for aliskiren include:

• Heart Failure: Some studies have investigated the use of aliskiren in the treatment of heart failure, particularly in patients with reduced ejection fraction. Aliskiren may help improve symptoms and reduce the risk of hospitalization in certain individuals with heart failure.
• Diabetic Nephropathy: Aliskiren has been studied for its potential role in slowing the progression of diabetic kidney disease (diabetic nephropathy) in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
• Cardiovascular Protection: There is ongoing research into the cardiovascular protective effects of aliskiren beyond its blood pressure-lowering properties, particularly in individuals at high risk for cardiovascular events.
• Vascular Protection: Some studies have explored the effects of aliskiren on vascular health and endothelial function, suggesting potential benefits for conditions such as atherosclerosis and peripheral artery disease.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be followed when taking aliskiren. Some important considerations include:

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Aliskiren should not be used during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, as it may cause harm to the fetus. It is also not recommended for use while breastfeeding.
• Kidney Function: Aliskiren should be used with caution in individuals with impaired kidney function or a history of kidney disease, as it may worsen kidney function or increase the risk of hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels in the blood).
• Potassium Levels: Regular monitoring of potassium levels in the blood may be necessary, especially in individuals at risk of hyperkalemia or those taking other medications that can increase potassium levels.
• Blood Pressure Monitoring: Blood pressure should be monitored regularly during treatment with aliskiren to assess its effectiveness and adjust the dosage as needed.
• Interactions: Aliskiren can interact with other medications, including certain blood pressure medications, potassium supplements, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It’s important to inform healthcare providers about all medications, supplements, and medical conditions before starting aliskiren.
• Allergic Reactions: Individuals who develop signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing, should seek medical attention immediately and discontinue aliskiren.
• Dizziness: Aliskiren may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly. To minimize this risk, it’s important to rise slowly from a sitting or lying position.

Overall, individuals should follow their healthcare provider’s guidance and instructions when taking aliskiren and report any unusual symptoms or side effects promptly.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Special dietary instructions for aliskiren typically involve avoiding excessive intake of potassium-rich foods or supplements, as aliskiren can increase potassium levels in the blood. Examples of potassium-rich foods include bananas, oranges, potatoes, tomatoes, spinach, and avocados. However, dietary changes should be made under the guidance of a healthcare provider, and individuals should not restrict potassium intake unless advised to do so.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of aliskiren, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are unsure about what to do, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for advice.

What side effects can this medication cause?

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

• Diarrhea: Some individuals may experience diarrhea while taking aliskiren.
• Cough: Although less common than with other types of blood pressure medications like ACE inhibitors, some people may develop a dry cough while taking aliskiren.
• Dizziness: Aliskiren can sometimes cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly.
• Hyperkalemia: Aliskiren may increase potassium levels in the blood, which can lead to symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, or irregular heartbeat.
• Kidney Problems: In some cases, aliskiren may worsen kidney function or lead to changes in kidney function tests.
• Allergic Reactions: While rare, allergic reactions to aliskiren can occur and may manifest as rash, itching, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Gastrointestinal Effects: Some individuals may experience stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or indigestion while taking aliskiren.
• Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure): Aliskiren can sometimes cause a drop in blood pressure, leading to symptoms like dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness.
• Headache: Headache is a potential side effect of aliskiren, although it is usually mild and temporary.
• Fatigue: Some individuals may experience fatigue or weakness while taking aliskiren.

It’s important to note that this is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects of aliskiren. Additionally, some side effects may be more severe or persistent than others. If you experience any bothersome or concerning side effects while taking aliskiren, it’s essential to contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. They can help determine whether the side effects are related to aliskiren and recommend appropriate management strategies.

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

Here’s what you should know about the storage and disposal of aliskiren:

• Storage: Aliskiren should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. Avoid storing it in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink, as moisture and heat can degrade the medication.
• Disposal: Unused or expired aliskiren should be disposed of properly to prevent accidental ingestion by children, pets, or others. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, follow local regulations for medication disposal. You can often take unused medications to a pharmacy or designated collection site for safe disposal.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of emergency or overdose of aliskiren:

• Seek Medical Help: If you suspect an overdose of aliskiren or experience severe symptoms such as fainting, dizziness, severe weakness, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention. Call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.
• Poison Control: You can also contact a poison control center for guidance on what to do in case of overdose. They can provide information on the appropriate steps to take and may advise you on whether further medical attention is necessary.

What other information should I know?

• Follow Instructions: Take aliskiren exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not adjust your dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting them first.
• Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may need to monitor your blood pressure, kidney function, and potassium levels regularly while you are taking aliskiren. Attend all scheduled appointments and follow-up visits as directed.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with aliskiren. This includes both prescription and over-the-counter medications.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of taking aliskiren with your healthcare provider. Aliskiren is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential harm to the fetus or infant.
• Lifestyle Changes: In addition to taking aliskiren, your healthcare provider may recommend lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, weight management, and limiting alcohol consumption to help manage high blood pressure.

By following these guidelines and communicating openly with your healthcare provider, you can safely and effectively use aliskiren to manage your condition.