Avalide (Irbesartan/HCTZ)

AVALIDE is a combination of irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide that is used to treat high blood pressure. Irbesartan is in a class of medications called angiotensin II antagonists. It works by blocking the action of certain natural chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, making blood flow more smoothly. Hydrochlorothiazide is in a class of medications called diuretics (water pills). It works by causing the kidneys to get rid of unneeded water and salt from the body into the urine.

Directions

Take AVALIDE as exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results. Take this medication with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.

It may take up to 4 weeks for this medication to control your blood pressure. Keep using this medication even if you feel fine. High blood pressure often has no symptoms.

Cautions

The following patients should not use this medication:

• those who are allergic to irbesartan or hydrochlorothiazide
• those who are unable to urinate
• patients who are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant

In rare cases, AVALIDE can cause a condition that result in the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, leading to kidney failure. Call your doctor right away if you have muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness especially if you also have fever, nausea or vomiting, and dark colored urine.

Side Effects

In rare cases, Avalide can cause kidney failure. Call your doctor right away if you have muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, fever, nausea or vomiting, and dark urine. Also, contact your doctor immediately if you experience signs of an allergic reaction (hives, difficulty breathing and swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat).

Additional serious side effects may include:

• Feeling light-headed
• Chest pain
• Short breath
• Fever
• Swelling, weight gain
• Urinating more or less than usual
• Jaundice
• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness
• Confusion
• Rapid heart rate
• Seizure

Less serious side effects may include:

• Stomach pain
• Heartburn
• Muscle pain
• A headache
• Runny or stuffy nose, sore throat
• A dry cough