Why is this medication prescribed?

Irbesartan is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high blood pressure. It is also used to treat kidney disease caused by diabetes in patients with type 2 diabetes (condition in which the body does not use insulin normally and therefore cannot control the amount of sugar in the blood) and high blood pressure. Irbesartan is in a class of medications called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. It works by blocking the action of certain natural substances that tighten the blood vessels, allowing the blood to flow more smoothly and the heart to pump more efficiently.

Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily with or without food. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your doctor may start you on a low dose of irbesartan and gradually increase your dose. Do not take this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Your blood pressure will need to be checked often. If you are being treated for high blood pressure, keep using this medication even if you feel well. Store this medication at room temperature away from moisture.

This medication may increase your potassium levels. Drinking alcohol can further lower your blood pressure in the short-term and may increase certain side effects of Avapro. Before using potassium supplements or salt substitutes, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Before using this medication, if you are allergic to it and you have your medical history of:

- Liver disease

- Severe loss of body water and minerals (dehydration ) inform your doctor.

It is important to know that during diarrhea, vomiting, not drinking enough fluids, and sweating a lot can cause a drop in blood pressure, which may cause lightheadedness and fainting

Dizziness, lightheadedness, or upset stomach may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist immediately. To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position. In rare cases, Avapro can cause a condition that results in the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, possibly leading to kidney failure. Contact doctor right away if you have unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness especially if you also have a fever, unusual tiredness, and dark-colored urine

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

Alcohol can lower your blood pressure and use of potassium supplements or salt substitutes unless your doctor has told you to.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions: -heart failure -kidney or liver disease -an unusual or allergic reaction to irbesartan, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives -pregnant or trying to get pregnant -breast-feeding

Is it safe to use this medication with diabetes medication?

If you have diabetes, do not use irbesartan together with any medication that contains aliskiren (a blood pressure medicine)

What is the most important information about Avapro (irbesartan)?

Advise female patients of childbearing age about the consequences of exposure to AVAPRO during pregnancy. Discuss treatment options with women planning to become pregnant. Patients should be asked to report pregnancies to their physicians as soon as possible.