Telmisartan Tablets

What is this medicine?

TELMISARTAN (tel mi SAR tan) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker, also known as an ARB. It treats high blood pressure. It may also be used to lower the risk of stroke or heart attack.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this drug by mouth. Take it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. You can take it with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food. Keep taking it unless your health care provider tells you to stop.

Talk to your health care provider about the use of this drug in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions (skin rash, itching or hives; swelling of the face, lips, or tongue)

• high potassium levels (chest pain; fast, irregular heartbeat; muscle weakness)

• kidney injury (trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine)

• low blood pressure (dizziness; feeling faint or lightheaded, falls; unusually weak or tired)

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• back pain

• change in sex drive or performance

• diarrhea

• headache

• stuffy nose

What may interact with this medicine?

• certain medicines for blood pressure, heart disease, irregular heart beat

• diuretics

• lithium

• NSAIDs, medicines for pain and inflammation, like ibuprofen or naproxen

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.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep this drug in the original packaging until you are ready to take it. Throw away any unused drug after the expiration date.

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

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• diet low in salt

• kidney disease

• liver disease

• low levels of sodium in the blood

• an unusual or allergic reaction to telmisartan, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your health care provider for regular checks on your progress. Check your blood pressure as directed. Ask your health care provider what your blood pressure should be. Also find out when you should contact him or her.

Women should inform their health care provider if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for serious side effects and harm to an unborn child, particularly in the second or third trimester. Talk to your health care provider for more information.

You may get dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this drug affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Avoid alcoholic drinks; they can make you more dizzy.

Avoid salt substitutes unless you are told otherwise by your health care provider.

Do not treat yourself for coughs, colds, or pain while you are taking this drug without asking your health care provider for advice. Some drugs may increase your blood pressure.