Brand name:
Atacand
Pronounced: AT-uh-kand
Generic name: Candesartan cilexetil
Why is Atacand prescribed?
Atacand controls high blood pressure. It works by blocking the effect
of a hormone called angiotensin II. Unopposed, this substance prompts
the blood vessels to contract, an action that tends to raise blood
pressure. Atacand relaxes and expands the blood vessels, allowing pressure
to drop. The drug may be prescribed alone or with other blood pressure
medications.
Most important fact about Atacand
You must take Atacand regularly for it to be effective. Since blood
pressure declines gradually, it may be a couple of weeks before you
get significant benefits from Atacand, and you must continue taking
it even though you feel well. Atacand does not cure high blood pressure,
it merely keeps it under control.
How should you take Atacand without Rx /Prescriptions?
So you won't forget, make a habit of taking your dose of Atacand around
the same time every day. This medication can be taken with or without
food.
If you miss a dose...
Take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next
dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule.
Do not take 2 doses at the same time.
Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature in a tightly sealed container.
Atacand side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue taking Atacand.
* Side effects may include:
Back pain, dizziness, respiratory tract infection
Why should Atacand not be prescribed?
If Atacand gives you an allergic reaction, you cannot continue using
it.
Special warnings about Atacand
Atacand can cause a severe drop in blood pressure, especially when
you first start taking the drug. The problem is more likely to occur
if your body's supply of water has been depleted by diuretics (water
pills). Symptoms include light-headedness, dizziness, and faintness.
Call your doctor if they occur. You may need to have your dose adjusted.
If you have kidney or liver disease, or congestive heart failure,
Atacand must be used with caution.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Atacand
The chances of a drug interaction with Atacand are low. Check with
your doctor, however, before combining it with lithium (Eskalith).
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Atacand can cause injury or even death to an unborn child when used
during the last 6 months of pregnancy. As soon as you learn that you
are pregnant, stop taking Atacand and call your doctor.
It is not known whether Atacand appears in breast milk; however, because
of the potential risks to the nursing infant, it's considered best
to avoid the drug while breastfeeding. You should decide whether to
give up nursing or discontinue Atacand.
Recommended dosage for Atacand
ADULTS
Overdosage
