Atacand

The active ingredient in Atacand is candesartan cilexetil. Candesartan belongs to a class of medications known as angiotensin II receptor blockers or ARBs. The mechanism of action by which these lower blood pressure is that they block the actions of a chemical in the body known as angiotensin II, a key player in the renin-angiotensin system involved in regulating blood pressure. When this chemical acts on blood vessels, it causes them to constrict and narrow in size, raising blood pressure.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Atacand. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Atacand:

• Atacand should be used exactly as prescribed. Depending on your response, your doctor may lower or increase your dose of candesartan. Typical starting dose depends on your age. For those <17 years of age, the dose will depend on the weight.
• It is typically taken daily with or without food.
• If you are unable to swallow tablets, your pharmacy may be able to prepare a liquid dosage form for you. It is important to note that the doses are different between the tablets and the liquid, so discuss with your doctor first before taking.
• Often, in patients with high blood pressure, you may have been instructed to opt for salt substitutes that do not contain sodium to further lower blood pressure. However, these often contain potassium, which Atacand can also increase, and using them together could cause hyperkalemia or high potassium levels in the blood. At the start, your doctor may have you go for blood work to ensure your serum potassium is normal.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

The most common side effects of Atacand include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Back pain
• Cold or flu symptoms
• Sore throat
• Nasal congestion and stuffiness

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Atacand. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Persistence of low blood pressure or hypotension symptoms such as fainting and lightheadedness. These are more common if you also take water pills (diuretics), are on a low salt diet, receive dialysis, have poor fluid intake, or are dehydrated or have heart problems. You may need a lower dose.
• Signs of worsening kidney problems or renal impairment. Your doctor will complete blood work to monitor for this. Watch for unexplained weight gain, unusual fatigue, changes in urination, and swelling of the extremities (edema).
• High blood potassium levels or hyperkalemia. Watch for heart palpitations, irregular heartbeat, chest pain, and muscle weakness.
• Signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, eyes, or tongue.

These are not all of the possible adverse reactions of Atacand. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Atacand, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

• Heart problems
• Liver problems or hepatic impairment
• Kidney problems or renal failure
• A current episode of vomiting or diarrhea
• Plans for surgery or anesthesia
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed

Boxed Warning

• Atacand should not be used during pregnancy due to the risk of fetal harm and birth defects in the unborn baby. If pregnancy is detected while using Atacand, discontinue use immediately.

Do not use Atacand if you have:

• An allergy to candesartan or any of the other ingredients in Atacand
• Are diabetic and using aliskiren

It can take a few weeks of regular use to see the antihypertensive effect of candesartan on your blood pressure. During this time, you may not feel it working, but your blood pressure will be monitored to ensure Atacand is effective.

When Atacand is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Potassium-sparing diuretics
• Potassium supplements
• Salt substitutes with potassium
• Lithium
• NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin, diclofenac, or ketorolac.
• ACE inhibitors such as perindopril, ramipril, enalapril, and lisinopril.
• Other angiotensin II receptor antagonists or ARBs
• Diuretics

Atacand is available as 4 mg, 8 mg, 16 mg, and 32 mg tablets.

Atacand is also available as Atacand Plus, which is a combination antihypertensive that contains both candesartan and hydrochlorothiazide.

Atacand should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture, and out of reach of children.

Atacand is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company AstraZeneca.

Yes, there is a generic available for the brand-name Atacand.

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing medications while taking Atacand.

Atacand should not be used during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It is unknown whether Atacand passes into the breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.