Telsartan 20mg Tab

TELSARTAN 20MG TABLET by DR REDDY S LABORATORIES LTD is a medication primarily used for the management of high blood pressure (hypertension). It also plays a significant role in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes, and can help protect kidney function, especially in diabetic patients.

Name

• Brand Name: Telsartan 20 MG Tablet
• Common Name: Telmisartan (20mg)

Composition

TELSARTAN 20MG TABLET contains Telmisartan 20 mg as its active ingredient. Telmisartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), which works by relaxing blood vessels to allow blood to flow more easily and effectively lower blood pressure.

Uses

TELSARTAN 20MG TABLET is prescribed for:

• Treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension).
• Reduction of the risk of heart attack and stroke.
• Protection of kidney function, particularly in individuals with diabetes.
• Management of heart failure.

Dosage and Administration

This medicine should be taken orally as directed by a doctor, usually once daily. It can be taken with or without food. For optimal results and consistent blood pressure control, it's important to take it at the same time each day. Do not stop taking the medicine abruptly without consulting a doctor, as this may lead to an increase in blood pressure. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered, unless it's close to the next scheduled dose, in which case the missed dose should be skipped. Do not double the dose.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Back pain
• Diarrhea
• Sinus pain and congestion (sinusitis)
• Stomach pain
• Weakness or fatigue
• Muscle pain or cramps
• Low blood pressure (hypotension)
• Increased heartbeat

Serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention are rare but can include severe allergic reactions (e.g., skin rash, itching, swelling of the face/tongue/throat, difficulty breathing), and significant increases in blood potassium levels (hyperkalemia).

Precautions

• Allergy: Avoid if allergic to Telmisartan or any components of the tablet.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: TELSARTAN 20MG TABLET is contraindicated in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy as it may cause serious harm to the fetus. It is also not recommended for use in breastfeeding women.
• Liver and Kidney Disease: Use with caution in patients with pre-existing liver or kidney problems. Regular monitoring of kidney function, blood pressure, and potassium levels may be necessary.
• Hypotension and Hyperkalemia: This medicine may lead to low blood pressure, especially in high doses or in patients with volume depletion. It can also increase potassium levels in the blood.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: May cause dizziness or drowsiness; avoid activities requiring high mental alertness until effects are known.
• Alcohol Interaction: Avoid alcohol consumption as it may increase the risk of low blood pressure and associated side effects like dizziness.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all ongoing medications, including potassium supplements, salt substitutes containing potassium, ACE inhibitors, other ARBs, lithium, NSAIDs, and aliskiren (especially in diabetics).

Storage

Store TELSARTAN 20MG TABLET at room temperature (between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC) away from light and moisture. Do not remove the medication from its blister pack until immediately before use. Keep out of sight and reach of children.

What is Telsartan 20mg used for?

Telsartan 20mg (containing Telmisartan) is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults. It also helps to reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke, particularly in adults who are at high risk. Additionally, it can be prescribed to preserve kidney function in patients with diabetes.

How does Telsartan 20mg work?

Telsartan 20mg belongs to a class of medicines called angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). It works by blocking the action of a hormone called angiotensin II in the body. Angiotensin II normally causes blood vessels to narrow, which leads to increased blood pressure. By blocking this action, Telsartan widens and relaxes blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily and thereby lowering high blood pressure and reducing the workload on the heart.

What is the usual dosage for Telsartan 20mg?

For treating high blood pressure, the typical starting dose of Telmisartan is often 40 mg once daily, but your doctor may adjust it from 20 mg to 80 mg once a day as needed. For reducing cardiovascular events, the usual dose is 80 mg once daily. It is crucial to follow your doctor's prescribed dose. Telsartan can be taken with or without food, preferably at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels in your body.

What are the possible side effects of Telsartan 20mg?

Common side effects may include back pain, sinus pain and congestion, diarrhea, headache, fatigue, and flu-like symptoms. More serious but less common side effects can include swelling of the face, throat, or tongue (angioedema), severe dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting due to low blood pressure, kidney problems (manifested as decreased urine output or swelling of the hands/feet), and high potassium levels in the blood. If you experience any severe symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.

Is Telsartan 20mg safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

No, Telsartan 20mg is not safe during pregnancy. It is contraindicated, especially during the second and third trimesters, as it can cause serious harm, birth defects, or even death to the unborn baby. If you become pregnant while taking this medicine, stop it immediately and contact your doctor. It is also not recommended during breastfeeding, as it is unknown if Telmisartan passes into breast milk and could potentially cause serious effects in a nursing infant.

Can Telsartan 20mg be taken with other medications?

Telsartan 20mg can interact with several other medications. It should not be taken with aliskiren, especially in patients with diabetes or moderate to severe kidney impairment. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can reduce its blood pressure-lowering effect and increase the risk of kidney problems and high potassium levels. Concomitant use with potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, or salt substitutes containing potassium can lead to dangerously high blood potassium levels. Blood levels of lithium and digoxin may also increase when taken with Telsartan. Always inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.

What precautions should be taken while on Telsartan 20mg?

Exercise caution if you have kidney or liver problems, heart failure, or if you are dehydrated (e.g., due to severe vomiting, diarrhea, or heavy sweating), as these conditions can worsen or affect the medication's efficacy. Your doctor may recommend regular monitoring of your blood pressure, kidney function, and potassium levels. Avoid or limit alcohol consumption, as it can further lower blood pressure and increase dizziness. This medicine may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.

What happens if a dose of Telsartan 20mg is missed?

If you miss a dose of Telsartan 20mg, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled 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.

How should Telsartan 20mg be stored?

Store Telsartan 20mg tablets at room temperature, generally between 10°C to 25°C or below 30°C. Keep the medication in its original blister pack until immediately before use to protect it from light and moisture. Do not store it in moist or damp areas, such as bathrooms. Always keep it out of sight and reach of children.