Avalide (Irbesartan/HCTZ)

Avalide is a combination drug used to treat high blood pressure in adults. It combines irbesartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that helps relax blood vessels so blood can flow more easily, and hydrochlorothiazide, a thiazide diuretic that helps the body get rid of extra salt and water through urine. The medication comes in film-coated tablets.

Directions

Avalide is a tablet taken by mouth, usually once a day, with or without food. For people whose blood pressure is not controlled with one drug alone, doses typically range from 150/12.5 mg to 300/25 mg, depending on blood pressure goals. The highest recommended dose is 300/25 mg once daily.

It should be taken at the same time each day to keep blood levels steady. Do not stop taking it without talking to a healthcare provider. If a dose is missed, take it when you remember unless it is close to the next dose. Do not take two doses at once.

Ingredients

The active ingredients in Avalide are irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide.

Cautions

• Before using this medication, you may want to consult a healthcare provider about:
  • Any existing health conditions
  • Any allergies
  • A list of all medications currently being taken
• Avalide can cause harm to an unborn baby, especially during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, so it should be stopped if pregnancy is detected. The diuretic ingredient can also cross the placenta and may increase the risk of newborn problems such as jaundice or low platelet counts.
• Avalide can sometimes lower blood pressure too much, especially in people who are dehydrated, on high-dose diuretics, or receiving dialysis, which may cause dizziness or fainting when starting treatment.
• Allergic reactions can occur, particularly in people with a history of allergies or asthma, and medical help should be sought if symptoms like rash, swelling, or trouble breathing develop.
• Avalide may worsen or trigger symptoms of lupus in people who already have this condition.
• Changes in body salts and minerals can occur, including low or high potassium, low sodium or magnesium, and increased uric acid, which may worsen gout or cause muscle weakness or heart rhythm issues.
• Blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels may increase, so it’s important to monitor these in people with diabetes or metabolic concerns.
• Avalide should be used with caution in people with liver disease, as fluid and electrolyte changes may worsen liver function.
• Kidney function can worsen in certain people, especially those with severe heart failure or narrowed kidney arteries, so kidney labs should be monitored regularly.
• Rare but serious eye problems, including sudden blurred vision, eye pain, or angle-closure glaucoma, can occur and require immediate medical attention to prevent vision loss.

Contraindications

Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:

• Anuria (an inability to produce urine)
• Hypersensitivity to hydrochlorothiazide, other sulfonamide-derived drugs, or irbesartan
• Combined use with aliskiren in people with diabetes

Side Effects

Common side effects of Avalide include:

• Fatigue
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Muscle or joint pain
• Nausea or stomach discomfort
• Chest painSwelling (edema)

These side effects are usually mild and tend to occur early in treatment as the body adjusts to the medication. More serious side effects are rare but can include low blood pressure, kidney problems, electrolyte imbalances (such as high potassium or uric acid levels), or allergic reactions. Contact a healthcare provider if you develop fainting, severe weakness, swelling of the face or lips, unusual rash, or changes in urination.