Micardis, the brand product of telmisartan, is a prescription drug classified as an angiotensin II receptor blocker. It is used alone or in combination with other medications for the treatment of hypertension. Micardis binds to the angiotensin II receptor and blocks angiotensin II from binding in the body. This leads to relaxation of the blood vessels in the body and a decrease in blood pressure. Micardis also blocks the actions of aldosterone, which is a chemical that causes sodium and water to be absorbed into the body. By blocking this action, water and sodium are released from the body and blood pressure drops. Micardis is generally well-tolerated but may cause some side effects.
Side Effects
Micardis increases the risk of developing an upper respiratory infection. About 7 percent of users may develop this undesired side effect. Symptoms of an upper respiratory infection include nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat, cough, general weakness and fever. If the patient experiences these symptoms, he should inform a health care professional right away. The patient may require medication to treat the infection. Diarrhea is a common side effect seen in patients on Micardis. The “Drug Information Handbook, reports that about 3 percent of users may develop this side effect. (See References 1) Micardis may cause back pain in about 3 percent of individuals. Muscle pain may also occur with this drug. These side effects are not harmful but the patient should report this side effect to a physician to ensure that it is not a serious condition.
Warnings
Orthostatic hypotension is a sudden drop in blood pressure when moving from a sitting or lying position. This side effect may occur with the administration of Micardis, according “Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach.” The patient may feel dizziness or faint upon standing which increases the risk of falls. The risk of developing orthostatic hypotension is greater in the elderly, so patients should be advised to rise slowly when standing. Micardis may also lead to hyperkalemia, which is a potassium level above normal. The patient should avoid potassium supplements or medications that act in a similar manner.
Drug Interactions
Micardis may increase the effect of digoxin, potassium supplements, co-trimoxazole and ACE inhibitors, such as lisinopril and enalapril. Potassium-sparing diuretics, such amiloride, spironolactone and triamterene, may increase the risk of developing hyperkalemia, states “Pharmacotherapy.” Micardis may decrease the effects of warfarin therapy.
Dosage Adjustments
Micardis is eliminated from the body through the urine. The drug may cause deterioration of renal function and an increase in serum creatinine, which a measure of kidney function. Patients with kidney disease should use the medication cautiously. Dosage adjustment is not recommended but the patient should be monitored properly. Patients with liver dysfunction should be supervised closely, as well, explains the “Drug Information Handbook.”
Contraindications
Several contraindications exist with Micardis. Patients who a kidney disease called bilateral renal artery stenosis should not use the medication. Pregnant women should not use avoid the drug because it may cause harm and death to the unborn baby. Another contraindication is allergy to the medication or any component. If the patient develops an allergic reaction such as itchiness, hives, redness, shortness of breath and swelling of the lips and mouth, the patient must discontinue the medication immediately and seek emergency care.
References
- "Drug Information Handbook"; Charles F. Lacy, Lora L. Armstrong, et al.; 2009
- "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach"; Joseph T. Dipiro, Robert L. Talbert, et al.; 2008
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