Vesertan

Indications

Candesartan Cilexetil is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults and children over 6 years, and to treat heart failure with reduced pumping strength in adults, usually when ACE inhibitors are not suitable or alongside them.

How It Works

Candesartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker. Angiotensin II is a natural hormone that tightens blood vessels and makes the body hold on to salt and water. By blocking its action, Candesartan lets the blood vessels relax and widen, which lowers blood pressure and makes it easier for the heart to pump.

Dosage and Administration

High blood pressure: the usual adult starting dose is 8 mg once daily, which may be raised to 16 mg and up to 32 mg once daily if needed. Heart failure: usually started at 4 mg once daily and slowly increased by the doctor, as prescribed. People with liver or kidney problems may start lower. Take at the same time each day, with or without food. Children's doses are set by the doctor.

Interactions

• Potassium supplements, salt substitutes containing potassium, Spironolactone, Amiloride, Trimethoprim and Heparin can raise blood potassium.
• Using it with ACE inhibitors (e.g. Enalapril) or Aliskiren increases the risk of kidney problems and high potassium.
• Pain relievers such as Ibuprofen, Diclofenac or Naproxen can reduce its effect and harm the kidneys.
• It can raise Lithium levels.
• Other blood pressure medicines and diuretics add to its effect.

Contraindications

• Allergy to Candesartan.
• Pregnancy, especially after the first 3 months.
• Severe liver disease or blocked bile flow.
• Use with Aliskiren in people with diabetes or reduced kidney function.

Side Effects

Common effects include dizziness, headache, tiredness, back pain, upper respiratory symptoms, and raised potassium or creatinine in blood tests. Low blood pressure is more common in heart failure.

Get urgent medical help if you have swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, fainting, very little urine, or muscle weakness with an irregular heartbeat (possible high potassium).

Pregnancy and Lactation

Do not take Candesartan if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy; it can harm the developing baby, particularly in the second and third trimesters. If you become pregnant, contact your doctor straight away so treatment can be changed. It is not recommended while breastfeeding, especially for newborns or premature babies.

Precautions and Warnings

Your doctor may check kidney function and potassium levels, especially at the start and after dose changes. Tell your doctor if you have kidney artery narrowing, heart valve narrowing, a recent kidney transplant, dehydration, vomiting or diarrhoea. Dizziness can occur, so get up slowly and take care when driving.

Overdose

Overdose mainly causes low blood pressure, dizziness and a fast or slow heartbeat. Lie down with legs raised and seek medical help at once.

Therapeutic Class

Angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), antihypertensive.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.