Irbepex-AM

Irbesartan belongs to a class of medicines called angiotensin II receptor antagonists (AIIRAs). Angiotensin II is a substance that occurs naturally in the body. It tightens the blood vessels, which in turn increases the blood pressure. Irbesartan blocks this effect so that the blood vessels relax, which helps lower your blood pressure.

You should take Irbesartan exactly as directed by your doctor. It is for oral use and is usually taken once a day. You should take it with plenty of water, with or without food. It is recommended that you take this medicine at the same time every day.

If you have missed a dose of Irbesartan, take it as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take it in the regular schedule instead of taking the missed dose. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one as this may increase the chances of developing side effects.

Irbesartan may take about 2 weeks to show a visible reduction in blood pressure. Full benefits of Irbesartan may take a little longer, about 4 weeks.

You need to know that this medicine can cause harm or death to your unborn baby. Therefore, if you are planning a pregnancy or have become pregnant, consult your doctor right away. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine to treat your high blood pressure.

Both Irbesartan and telmisartan are blood pressure-lowering medicines. Irbesartan is a relatively new medicine. It is as effective as telmisartan in lowering blood pressure. It can be safely used in patients as it has fewer side effects.

No, do not stop taking Irbesartan without speaking to your doctor, even if you are feeling well or your blood pressure is controlled. Stopping it suddenly may increase your blood pressure which may increase your risk of stroke.

Taking more than the recommended dose of Irbesartan may decrease your blood pressure due to which you may feel dizzy or may even faint. Consult your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical aid in a nearby hospital.

Lifestyle changes play a major role in keeping you healthy if you are taking Irbesartan. Avoid taking excess salt in your diet and find ways to reduce or manage stress in your life. Practice yoga or meditation or take up a hobby. Ensure that you have a sound sleep every night as this also helps to reduce stress levels and helps to keep your blood pressure normal. Stop smoking and alcohol consumption as this helps in lowering your blood pressure and preventing heart problems. Exercise regularly and take a balanced diet that includes whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables, and fat-free products. Consult your doctor if you need any further guidance to get the maximum benefit of Irbesartan and to keep yourself healthy.

Amlodipine starts working on the day it is taken. However, it may take weeks to see the full effect. You should continue taking the medicine even if you feel better or if you do not notice any considerable difference. Consult your doctor if you have any concerns or you feel worse after taking the medicine.

Amlodipine may cause itching in some patients, though it is an uncommon side effect. However, if you experience severe itching contact your doctor.

No, there is no evidence that Amlodipine causes deterioration of kidney problems. Amlodipine can be used in normal doses in patients with kidney problems. In fact, its blood pressure-lowering effect, it helps to prevent injury to the kidneys due to hypertension.

Amlodipine can be taken anytime of the day. Usually, it is advised to be taken in the morning, but your doctor may advise to take it in the evening as well. You should take it at the same time each day so that you remember to take it and consistent levels of medicine are maintained in the body.

You should keep on taking Amlodipine for as long as your doctor has recommended you to take it. You may need to take it lifelong. Do not stop taking it, even if you feel well or your blood pressure is well controlled. If you stop taking Amlodipine, your blood pressure may increase again and your condition may worsen.

No, Amlodipine is not a beta-blocker. It belongs to a class of medicines known as calcium channel blockers. It lowers blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels so that blood can easily flow through the blood vessels.

Amlodipine may cause some serious side effects such as liver problems (yellowing of skin, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite), pancreatitis (severe stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting), and recurrent chest pain which may be indicative of a heart attack. However, these side effects are rarely seen. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medicine to you because the benefit to you is greater than the risk of any potential side effects. Follow your doctor's advice.

Consult your doctor first before starting any new prescription or non-prescription medicines or supplements. Take low sodium and low-fat diet, and adhere to the lifestyle changes as advised by your doctor. Avoid eating grapefruit (chakotra) or drinking grapefruit juice while taking Amlodipine. Stop smoking and taking alcohol as this helps to lower your blood pressure and prevents heart problems.

Amlodipine can cause ankle or foot swelling. To reduce swelling raise your legs while you are sitting down. Talk to your doctor if it does not go away.