Arbitel H Tablet (10 Tab)

ARBITEL H TABLET (10 TAB) by MICRO LABS LIMITED

Name

• Common Name: Arbitel-H Tablet
• Brand Name: ARBITEL H TABLET (10 TAB)

Composition

Arbitel-H Tablet is a combination medication containing two active ingredients:

• Telmisartan: An angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), typically 40mg or 80mg per tablet.
• Hydrochlorothiazide: A thiazide diuretic (water pill), typically 12.5mg per tablet.

Uses

Arbitel-H Tablet is primarily prescribed for the treatment of essential hypertension (high blood pressure), especially when blood pressure is not adequately controlled by a single medication. Its actions help to relax blood vessels and remove excess salt and water from the body, thereby lowering blood pressure. This helps in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke. It may also be used to manage edema (fluid retention) resulting from conditions like heart failure, liver cirrhosis, and nephrotic syndrome.

Dosage and Administration

The typical dosage is one tablet once daily, with or without food. The tablet should be swallowed whole with water and not chewed or crushed. It is recommended to take the medicine at the same time each day for optimal effectiveness. Do not stop taking Arbitel-H without consulting your doctor, as sudden discontinuation can lead to increased blood pressure. Due to its diuretic component, it's advisable to avoid taking it within four hours of bedtime to prevent frequent urination during the night.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Dizziness, fatigue, or lightheadedness
• Nausea, diarrhea
• Headache, back pain, cold/flu symptoms
• Increased urination, dry mouth
• Muscle pain, weakness

Serious side effects are less common but can include allergic reactions (e.g., skin rash, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat), significant drops in blood pressure, electrolyte imbalances (like high potassium levels, which can cause irregular heartbeats), and kidney problems.

Precautions

• Contraindications: Arbitel-H is not recommended for individuals allergic to its components, those with severe kidney or liver problems, low blood pressure, cardiogenic shock, aortic stenosis, or those unable to urinate.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It is not recommended during pregnancy (especially the second and third trimesters) due to potential harm to the fetus and is contraindicated during breastfeeding as it can pass into breast milk.
• Interactions: Avoid potassium supplements or salt substitutes unless advised by a doctor, as it can increase potassium levels. Alcohol consumption should be avoided as it can further lower blood pressure and increase dizziness.
• Other Conditions: Use with caution in patients with diabetes, as it may affect blood glucose levels. Long-term use of hydrochlorothiazide may increase the risk of non-melanoma skin cancer; patients should limit sun exposure and report suspicious skin lesions.
• Driving: As it may cause dizziness, operate machinery or drive with caution until you know how the medicine affects you.

Storage

Store Arbitel-H Tablet in a cool, dry place, below 30°C, protected from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Keep out of sight and reach of children and pets. Always check the expiration date before use.

What is ARBITEL H TABLET used for?

ARBITEL H TABLET is primarily used for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure). It is typically prescribed when a single medication is not effectively controlling blood pressure. By lowering blood pressure, it helps reduce the risk of future cardiovascular events such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney problems. It can also help manage fluid retention (edema) associated with conditions like heart failure, liver cirrhosis, and nephrotic syndrome.

How does ARBITEL H TABLET work?

ARBITEL H TABLET is a combination of two active ingredients: Telmisartan and Hydrochlorothiazide. Telmisartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood. Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic (also known as a "water pill") that increases the removal of excess salt and water from the body through urine, which also contributes to lowering blood pressure. Together, these actions reduce the strain on the heart and improve blood flow.

What is the usual dosage for ARBITEL H TABLET?

The typical starting dose for ARBITEL H TABLET (containing Telmisartan and Hydrochlorothiazide) is often one tablet once daily, such as 40 mg of telmisartan and 12.5 mg of hydrochlorothiazide. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your condition and response to the medicine, potentially increasing it up to 160 mg/25 mg once daily if needed. It can be taken with or without food, but it is recommended to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistency.

What are the possible side effects of ARBITEL H TABLET?

Common side effects can include dizziness, fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, back pain, and cold/flu symptoms. Other possible side effects include headache, dry mouth, increased urination, muscle pain or cramps, low blood pressure (which can cause lightheadedness or fainting), and changes in blood potassium levels (either low or high). More serious, but less common, side effects could involve kidney problems, allergic reactions (like rash or swelling of the face/throat), or changes in vision.

Is ARBITEL H TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

No, ARBITEL H TABLET is not recommended during pregnancy as it can cause damage to the unborn baby and may lead to fetal toxicity, particularly in the second and third trimesters. It is also unsafe to use while breastfeeding. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, you should consult your doctor immediately.

Can ARBITEL H TABLET be taken with other medications?

ARBITEL H TABLET can interact with several other medications. It is crucial to inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal products you are currently taking. Some notable interactions include:

• Lithium: May increase lithium levels, requiring dose adjustment.
• NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) like ibuprofen or aspirin: Can reduce the blood pressure-lowering effect of ARBITEL H TABLET and may increase the risk of kidney impairment.
• Potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium: Should be avoided as ARBITEL H TABLET can increase blood potassium levels.
• Other blood pressure-lowering medications (e.g., ACE inhibitors like ramipril, benazepril, quinapril, or aliskiren): Concomitant use can increase the risk of low blood pressure, kidney problems, and high blood potassium.
• Diabetic medications (e.g., insulin): May require dose adjustments as ARBITEL H TABLET can affect blood sugar levels.
• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol as it can further lower blood pressure, causing dizziness, drowsiness, or even liver damage.

What precautions should be taken while taking ARBITEL H TABLET?

Take the following precautions while on ARBITEL H TABLET:

• Avoid potassium supplements or salt substitutes unless advised by your doctor due to the risk of increased blood potassium levels.
• Stay well-hydrated, especially during exercise or in hot weather, as the medication can cause dehydration.
• Be cautious when driving or operating machinery, as dizziness or lightheadedness can occur, especially when getting up from a sitting or lying position.
• Inform your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney problems, diabetes, glaucoma, or a history of allergies (especially to penicillin or sulfa drugs).
• Regular monitoring of blood pressure, kidney function, electrolyte levels, and blood sugar levels may be advised by your doctor.
• Avoid consuming alcohol during treatment.

What happens if a dose of ARBITEL H TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose of ARBITEL H TABLET, 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 compensate for the missed one, as this can lead to low blood pressure.

How should ARBITEL H TABLET be stored?

ARBITEL H TABLET should be stored in a cool, dry place, protected from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. It should be kept at room temperature, typically between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Keep the medicine out of sight and reach of children and pets. Do not chew, crush, or break the tablets. Always check the expiration date and discard any expired medicine.