Atacand is a medication indicated for use in patients with hypertension, heart failure and impaired cardiac function. Atacand is often part of a multi-medication treatment plan used as an agent to treat heart conditions such as congestive heart failure and prevent high blood pressure. Atacand is one medication with which exercise is recommended.
Intended Use
Blood pressure is a measure of the force of blood pushing against artery walls as the heart pumps out the blood. High blood pressure is a common condition in which the force of blood is beyond the normal threshold. Therefore, high blood pressure creates a heavy workload for the heart and arteries. If high blood pressure is left untreated over time, the heart will gradually reduce its function, resulting in damage to the brain, heart and kidneys. Atacand works to reduce blood pressure, thereby decreasing the risk of heart disease.
Mechanism of Action
According to EMed TV, Atacand is a prescription medication that is part of a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor blockers. Atacand works by blocking angiotensin II, which causes blood vessels to constrict. As a result, Atacand relaxes blood vessels, lowers blood pressure and increases the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart. Atacand essentially increases the effectiveness of the heart so that it does not have to work as hard and more blood can easily be pumped out to the rest of the body. While Atacand is not a cure for heart-related conditions, it will lower blood pressure and make the heart more efficient. This should make it easier for you to exercise
Potential Side Effects
As with any prescribed medication, there are a number of potential side effects. Adverse affects that are rare but warrant medical attention include: chest pain; tightness or heaviness; chills; dizziness; fatigue; fainting; shortness of breath; irregular heartbeat; light-headedness; lower back pain; and large, hive-like swelling of the face, eyelids, tongue, throat, hands, legs or feet. Some side effects may occur that do not necessitate medical attention, as they may go away as the body adjusts to the medication. Some side effects may also be more severe with exercise.
Exercise
While weight gain is not one of the side effects of Atacand, individuals with congestive heart failure tend to gain weight easily. The Cleveland Clinic suggests that to promote weight maintenance, individuals exercise regularly. It is important to discuss exercise goals, potential risks and any safety concerns with a physician. Reasonably, you should perform cardiovascular exercise for 30 minutes per day, five days a week. However, you should start out slowly, gradually increasing the duration and intensity of exercise. When taking Atacand, it is important to watch for signs of dehydration, light-headedness and dizziness during exercise.
Heart Healthy Lifestyle
The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute emphasizes the importance of following a healthy lifestyle in conjunction with medical management. Consuming a heart-healthy diet, maintaining a desirable body weight, managing stress and exercising regularly are all important factors. "Improvements in Exercise Tolerance and Symptoms of Heart Failure During Treatment with Candesartan Cilexetil," a study completed by GA. Riegger and colleagues, found that patients treated with Atacand demonstrated significant improvements in exercise tolerance in addition to a reduction in congestive heart failure symptoms. For this reason, exercise is highly recommended with Atacand.
