Micardis HCT

(Telmisartan/Hydrochlorothiazide)

The active ingredients in Micardis HCT are telmisartan and hydrochlorothiazide. Each of these medications works differently to lower blood pressure. Telmisartan belongs to a class of medications known as angiotensin II receptor blockers or ARBs. The effects of telmisartan are due to the blockage of Angiotensin II, a chemical in the body that causes your blood vessels to become narrower, which raises your blood pressure.

Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) belongs to a drug class known as thiazide diuretics. These medications lower blood pressure by promoting increased water loss and salt excretion from the body. High water and salt content can increase your 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 Micardis HCT. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Micardis HCT:

• Micardis HCT should be used exactly as prescribed.
• It is typically taken once daily with or without food. The dose you take will depend on your blood pressure targets as well as a number of other factors.
• 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 Micardis HCT include:

• Upper respiratory tract infections or flu-like symptoms
• Dizziness
• Sinusitis
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Back pain

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

• Symptoms of hypotension or low blood pressure such as lightheadedness, feeling faint, or dizziness. Your risk for this side effect is higher if you also take water pills, are on a low-salt diet, receive dialysis, have heart problems, get sick with vomiting or diarrhea, have poor fluid intake, dehydration, or have a condition that causes you to sweat a lot.
• Renal impairment or kidney problems. Signs to watch for include unexplained weight gain and swelling in the lower limbs and feet.
• Signs of liver problems such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), loss of appetite, dark urine, or nausea and vomiting.
• Changes in vision or eye pain. These could be signs of glaucoma.
• Worsening of lupus.
• Signs of electrolyte imbalances in the blood such as dry mouth, thirst, excessive fatigue, sleepiness, restlessness, confusion, seizures, racing heart, weakness, muscle pain or cramps, low urine output, nausea, and vomiting.
• Symptoms of skin cancer. Any changes in existing moles or changes in the appearance of your skin should be followed up on by your healthcare provider.
• Signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, rash, shortness of breath, and swelling of the face, tongue, or throat.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Micardis HCT. 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 Micardis HCT, 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 if you have:

• Abnormal electrolyte levels in the blood, including low or high potassium levels
• Liver dysfunction
• Kidney problems
• Asthma
• Lupus
• Diabetes
• Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat)
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed

Boxed Warning

• Micardis HCT should not be used in pregnancy as it can cause harm to the fetus. If pregnancy is detected, discontinue use immediately.

Do not use Micardis HCT if you have:

• An allergy to telmisartan or any of the other ingredients in Micardis HCT
• Diabetes and are also using aliskiren
• Anuria (not urinating)

Although you will most likely not be able to feel the blood pressure-lowering effects of Micardis HCT, the medication begins to work right after the first dose. It can take a couple of weeks of regular use to see the full blood pressure-lowering effects of Micardis HCT.

When Micardis HCT 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:

• Lithium
• NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen
• Other RAS inhibitors like ACE inhibitors
• Diabetes medications, including aliskiren, insulin, and others
• Certain cholesterol-lowering medications, such as cholestyramine and colestipol
• Digoxin
• Water pills (diuretics)
• Other blood pressure medications
• Potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium
• Narcotic pain medications
• Medications for sleep
• Steroids
• ACTH hormone
• Barbiturates

Micardis HCT tablets are available in the following strengths:

• 40 mg telmisartan/12.5 mg hydrochlorothiazide
• 80 mg telmisartan/12.5 mg hydrochlorothiazide
• 80 mg telmisartan/25 mg hydrochlorothiazide

Micardis HCT should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture, and out of reach of children. Tablets should be kept in their original foil packaging until ready for use.

Micardis HCT is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals.

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

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

Micardis HCT can cause harm to the unborn baby and should not be used in pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant.

Although it is unknown whether Micardis HCT passes into breast milk, its use is not recommended during breastfeeding due to the potential for harm to the nursing infant. 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.