WARNING

Taking aliskiren, 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 are some of the risks associated with taking aliskiren:

• Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure): Aliskiren can cause a decrease in blood pressure, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting, especially when standing up. This risk is more significant in individuals who are dehydrated, have low sodium levels, or are taking diuretics.
• Hyperkalemia (High Potassium Levels): Aliskiren may lead to elevated levels of potassium in the blood, a condition known as hyperkalemia. High potassium levels can be serious and may cause symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, or irregular heartbeat.
• Renal Impairment: Aliskiren can affect kidney function, particularly in individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions. It is generally not recommended for people with severe renal impairment.
• Angioedema: While rare, aliskiren may cause angioedema, which is a serious swelling of the deeper layers of the skin, often involving the face, lips, tongue, or throat. This can be a life-threatening condition and requires immediate medical attention.
• Pregnancy Risks: Aliskiren is contraindicated during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters. It can cause harm to the developing fetus and may lead to fetal death. If pregnancy is detected, aliskiren should be discontinued as soon as possible.
• Interaction with Other Medications: Aliskiren can interact with other medications, including angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), potentially increasing the risk of adverse effects.
• Allergic Reactions: While rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to aliskiren, presenting with symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

It’s important to take aliskiren exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider and to attend regular follow-up appointments for monitoring. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider promptly. Additionally, inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and health conditions you have to minimize potential risks and ensure safe and effective use of aliskiren.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Aliskiren is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as direct renin inhibitors. It is primarily prescribed to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Renin is an enzyme in the body that plays a role in regulating blood pressure by initiating a cascade of events that ultimately lead to the constriction of blood vessels. Aliskiren works by inhibiting the activity of renin, resulting in the relaxation of blood vessels and a reduction in blood pressure.

How should this medicine be used?

Aliskiren is typically prescribed as an oral medication, and its use should be guided by a healthcare professional. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and administration instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist. Here are some general guidelines on how aliskiren is commonly used:

• Dosage: The usual starting dose of aliskiren for treating hypertension in adults is often 150 mg once daily. However, your healthcare provider may adjust the dose based on your individual response. The maximum recommended dose is 300 mg once daily.
• Administration: Aliskiren is usually taken orally with or without food. It is important to take the medication consistently at the same time each day.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, 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 double the dose to make up for a missed one.
• Interactions with Food and Other Medications: Aliskiren can be taken with or without food. However, certain medications and substances may interact with aliskiren, so it’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood pressure and kidney function is typically recommended while taking aliskiren. Your healthcare provider may also order blood tests to check potassium levels periodically.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Aliskiren is contraindicated during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, due to potential harm to the fetus. It is also not recommended during breastfeeding. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations and ask any questions you may have about the medication. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider promptly. It’s important to attend regular follow-up appointments to monitor your response to the medication and address any concerns or adjustments needed in your treatment plan.

Other uses for this medicine

Aliskiren is primarily used for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure). However, it’s important to note that medications may sometimes be prescribed for off-label uses, meaning uses that are not specifically approved by regulatory authorities. The primary and approved use of aliskiren is for hypertension.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for aliskiren, it’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s guidance and be aware of the following considerations:

• Kidney Function: Aliskiren can affect kidney function, and it is generally not recommended for individuals with severe renal impairment. Your healthcare provider may monitor your kidney function regularly while you are taking aliskiren.
• Potassium Levels: Aliskiren may increase potassium levels in the blood, leading to hyperkalemia. This risk is higher in individuals with pre-existing kidney problems or those taking other medications that can also raise potassium levels. Regular monitoring of potassium levels is important.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Aliskiren is contraindicated during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, as it may cause harm to the developing fetus. It is also not recommended during breastfeeding. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.
• Angioedema: Aliskiren, like other drugs that affect the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, may rarely cause angioedema, a serious swelling of the deeper layers of the skin. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure): Aliskiren can lead to a decrease in blood pressure. It’s important to monitor for symptoms of hypotension, such as dizziness or fainting, especially when standing up from a sitting or lying position.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Aliskiren can interact with other drugs, including angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), potentially increasing the risk of adverse effects.

Always take aliskiren as prescribed and follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for dosage and monitoring. If you have concerns or experience any side effects, contact your healthcare provider promptly. Do not make changes to your medication regimen without consulting your healthcare provider.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions for aliskiren. However, maintaining a healthy and balanced diet that is low in sodium can complement the efforts to control hypertension. Excessive intake of high-potassium foods, such as bananas, oranges, and leafy green vegetables, should be avoided to prevent an increase in potassium levels. Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice regarding diet and lifestyle modifications.

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. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. If you have any concerns or questions about missed doses, contact your healthcare provider for guidance. It’s important to stay on track with your medication regimen to effectively manage your condition.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Aliskiren, like any medication, can cause side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals may experience side effects that are not listed here. If you are prescribed aliskiren, your healthcare provider will carefully weigh the potential benefits against the risks for your specific health situation. Common side effects of aliskiren include:

• Dizziness or Lightheadedness: This may occur, especially when standing up from a sitting or lying position. It is important to stand up slowly to minimize the risk of dizziness.
• Increased Blood Potassium Levels (Hyperkalemia): Aliskiren can lead to elevated levels of potassium in the blood. High potassium levels can be serious and may cause symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, or irregular heartbeat.
• Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension): Some people may experience a decrease in blood pressure, leading to symptoms like dizziness or fainting.
• Kidney Impairment: Aliskiren can affect kidney function, particularly in individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions.
• Angioedema: While rare, aliskiren may cause angioedema, a serious swelling of the deeper layers of the skin, often involving the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Allergic Reactions: In rare cases, individuals may experience allergic reactions to aliskiren, presenting with symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience severe or persistent side effects. Additionally, inform your healthcare provider about any side effects you notice, even if they are not listed here. This allows your healthcare provider to assess whether the benefits of the medication outweigh the potential risks in your case.

If you have concerns about the side effects of aliskiren, discuss them with your healthcare provider before starting the medication. They can provide guidance on managing potential side effects and may adjust your treatment plan if needed. Never stop or change your medication without consulting your healthcare provider.

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

Storage of Aliskiren:

• Room Temperature: Store aliskiren at room temperature away from light and moisture.
• Avoid Extreme Conditions: Do not store aliskiren in the bathroom or expose it to excessive heat or moisture.
• Keep Away from Children and Pets: Ensure that aliskiren is kept out of reach of children and pets.
• Original Container: Store aliskiren in its original container to protect it from light and moisture.

Always follow the specific storage instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

Disposal of Aliskiren:

• Dispose Properly: Dispose of aliskiren in accordance with local regulations and guidelines. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into drains unless instructed to do so.
• Take-Back Programs: Check for medication take-back programs in your community or follow any specific disposal instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
• Ask Your Pharmacist: If you have questions about how to dispose of aliskiren or any other medications, consult your pharmacist.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of an emergency or overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact your local poison control center. Overdose symptoms may include dizziness, lightheadedness, weakness, or unusually fast or slow heartbeat. It’s essential to have the medication packaging or information available for healthcare providers.

What other information should I know?

• Follow-Up Appointments: Attend scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider. Regular check-ups are important to monitor your response to aliskiren and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.
• Lab Tests: Your healthcare provider may order regular blood tests, including potassium levels and kidney function tests, to monitor the effects of aliskiren.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care, including dentists and specialists, that you are taking aliskiren. This is important for avoiding potential drug interactions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of aliskiren with your healthcare provider.
• Other Medications and Supplements: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Always follow the advice and instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. If you have questions or concerns about aliskiren, do not hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.