Micardis

This page contains drug information on Micardis.
The information provided includes the following:
what is Micardis
the possible side effects of Micardis
what happens if you miss a dose of Micardis
what happens if you overdose with Micardis
the most important information about Micardis
how to use Micardis
other drugs that may affect Micardis
what to avoid while using Micardis
 
Generic Name: telmisartan  (TELL mi sar tan)
Brand Names: Micardis
 
What is the most important information I should know about micardis?
 •  Do not take micardis if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy. When used during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, micardis can cause injury and even death to the developing baby. Notify your doctor immediately if you think you might be pregnant.
 •  Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Rarely, micardis may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities. Also use caution when rising from a sitting or lying position.
 •  Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may further lower blood pressure and increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking micardis.

What is micardis?
 •  micardis is in a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. micardis prevents the constriction (narrowing) of blood vessels (veins and arteries).
 •  micardis is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure).
 •  micardis may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Who should not take micardis?
 •  Before taking micardis, tell your doctor if you
      · have kidney disease
      · have liver disease or
      · are taking a potassium supplement (e.g., K-Dur, Klor-Con, others) or a potassium-sparing diuretic such as amiloride (Midamor), triamterene (Dyrenium, Dyazide, Maxzide), or spironolactone (Aldactone).
 •  You may not be able to take micardis, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
 •  micardis is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that micardis is known to be harmful to an unborn baby. When used during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, micardis can cause injury and even death of the developing baby.Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
 •  It is not known whether micardis passes into breast milk. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take micardis?
 •  Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
 •  Take each dose with a full glass of water.
 •  micardis can be taken with or without food.
 •  Store micardis at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?
 •  Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?
 •  Seek emergency medical attention.
 •  Symptoms of a micardis overdose are not well known, but might include dizziness, weakness, fainting, and a fast heartbeat.

What should I avoid while taking micardis?
 •  Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Rarely, micardis may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities. Also use caution when rising from a sitting or lying position.
 •  Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may further lower blood pressure and increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking micardis.
 •  Do not use salt substitutes or take potassium supplements without first talking to your doctor. micardis can affect potassium levels in the body.

What are the possible side effects of micardis?
 •  If you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing closing of your throat swelling of your lips, tongue, or face or hives), stop taking micardis and seek emergency medical attention.
 •  Other less serious side effects may also occur. Continue to take your medication and talk to your doctor if you experience
      · diarrhea or upset stomach
      · muscle pain or a backache
      · dizziness
      · headache or
      · congestion or a cough.
 •  Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect micardis?
 •  Before taking micardis, tell your doctor if you are taking or using:
      · digoxin (Lanoxin)
      · warfarin (Coumadin) or
      · a potassium supplement such as K-Dur, Klor-Con, and others
      · a potassium-sparing diuretic (water pill) such as amiloride (Midamor), spironolactone (Aldactone), or triamterene (Dyrenium, Dyazide, Maxzide) or
      · a salt substitute.
 •  You may not be able to micardis, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking any of the products listed above.
 •  Tell your doctor about any other medicines you take to treat high blood pressure or other heart conditions. micardis may cause very low blood pressure if it is taken with other heart medications.
 •  Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with micardis or affect your condition. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.