TELMA CT 80/12.5 MG TABLET

TELMA CT 80/12.5 MG TABLET, manufactured by Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd., is a combination medication used to manage high blood pressure.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: TELMA CT 80/12.5 MG TABLET
  • Common Names: Telmisartan and Chlorthalidone

• Composition:

  • Each tablet contains Telmisartan 80 mg and Chlorthalidone 12.5 mg.

• Uses: TELMA CT 80/12.5 MG TABLET is primarily prescribed for:

  • Managing essential hypertension (high blood pressure) in individuals whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled by either Telmisartan or Chlorthalidone alone, or as an initial therapy for patients requiring multiple drug therapy.
  • Reducing the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes, particularly in patients aged 55 or older with cardiovascular risk factors who cannot take ACE inhibitors.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • Typically, one tablet is taken orally once daily.
  • It can be taken with or without food.
  • Avoid taking it close to bedtime due to the diuretic effect of Chlorthalidone, which may increase urination.
  • Do not stop the medication abruptly without consulting a doctor, as this can increase the risk of heart attacks or strokes.

• Side Effects: Common side effects may include:

  • Dizziness, fatigue, headache, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, indigestion.
  • Back pain, sinus infection, red spots or bumps on the skin.
  • Decreased potassium levels and increased uric acid levels in the blood.
  • Postural hypotension (a drop in blood pressure upon standing), impotence, loss of appetite, and gastrointestinal disturbances.

• Precautions:

  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not recommended during pregnancy and generally considered unsafe during breastfeeding.
  • Kidney and Liver Conditions: Use with caution in patients with kidney or liver impairment. It is contraindicated in severe kidney or liver impairment and anuria.
  • Other Conditions: Exercise caution in patients with diabetes, heart issues (such as congestive heart failure), gout, or those allergic to sulphonamide-derived medicines.
  • Drug Interactions: Avoid concomitant use with potassium supplements, certain painkillers (like NSAIDs), and aliskiren. It may also interact with lithium and cardiac glycosides.
  • Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it can increase the risk of low blood pressure and side effects.
  • Driving: May cause dizziness or tiredness, so caution is advised when driving or operating machinery.

• Storage:

  • Store below 25°C or between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
  • Keep away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.
  • Do not freeze.
  • Keep out of sight and reach of children and pets.

Frequently Asked Questions about TELMA CT 80/12.5 MG TABLET

What is TELMA CT 80/12.5 MG TABLET used for?

TELMA CT 80/12.5 MG TABLET is primarily used to manage high blood pressure, a condition known as hypertension. It is also used to reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events such as strokes and heart attacks, particularly in patients aged 55 or older who are at high risk and cannot take ACE inhibitors. It may also be used when a single medication (monotherapy) with either chlorthalidone or telmisartan is not sufficient to control blood pressure.

How does TELMA CT 80/12.5 MG TABLET work?

This medication contains two active ingredients: Telmisartan (80 mg) and Chlorthalidone (12.5 mg).

• Telmisartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). It works by blocking the effects of a hormone called angiotensin II, which normally causes blood vessels to narrow. By blocking this, telmisartan helps to relax and widen blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more smoothly and reducing blood pressure.
• Chlorthalidone is a thiazide-like diuretic, also known as a "water pill." It works on the kidneys to increase the excretion of sodium, chloride, and water from the body, thereby reducing fluid retention and consequently lowering blood pressure. Together, these two components provide a dual mechanism to effectively control blood pressure.

What is the usual dosage?

The dosage and duration of TELMA CT 80/12.5 MG TABLET are determined by your doctor based on your specific health condition and how you respond to the medication. It is typically taken once daily, with or without food, swallowed whole with water. You should not crush or chew the tablet. It's important to take it at the same time each day and not to alter the dosage or stop taking it without your doctor's guidance. Since it contains a diuretic, it's generally best to avoid taking it within four hours of going to bed to prevent increased urination during the night.

What are the possible side effects?

Common side effects of TELMA CT 80/12.5 MG TABLET include dizziness, fatigue, back pain, diarrhea, nausea, sinus inflammation (stuffed nose or headache), and upper respiratory tract infection. Other possible side effects can include abdominal pain, indigestion, headache, dry mouth, skin ulcers, and increased uric acid levels in the blood. Chlorthalidone can also lead to electrolyte imbalances, such as low potassium levels (hypokalemia), which can cause muscle weakness, racing heartbeat, or extreme tiredness. Most side effects are temporary and resolve over time, but if any persist or worsen, you should consult your doctor.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

TELMA CT 80/12.5 MG TABLET is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, as it may be harmful to the unborn baby and cause fetal abnormalities. It is also not recommended during breastfeeding as it can pass into breast milk and may harm the nursing infant. If you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding, it is crucial to consult your doctor for safer alternatives.

Can it be taken with other medications?

TELMA CT 80/12.5 MG TABLET can interact with several other medications. It's important to inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal products you are currently taking. Notable interactions include:

• Cardiac glycosides (e.g., digoxin): May alter effects or increase the risk of side effects.
• Lithium-based medications: Can increase lithium levels, potentially leading to toxicity.
• NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen): May reduce the blood pressure-lowering effect of Telma CT and increase the risk of kidney problems.
• Other antihypertensive agents (e.g., aliskiren, ramipril): May increase the risk of low blood pressure or kidney impairment.
• Potassium-containing salt substitutes or supplements: Can lead to high potassium levels in the blood.
• Anti-diabetics (e.g., insulin, metformin): May cause low blood sugar.

What precautions should be taken?

Several precautions should be taken while using TELMA CT 80/12.5 MG TABLET:

• Liver and Kidney Disease: Use with caution if you have liver or kidney problems, as telmisartan is eliminated by biliary excretion and chlorthalidone affects kidney function. Close monitoring may be required, and it is not recommended in severe liver or kidney impairment.
• Diabetes: Chlorthalidone can affect blood glucose levels, so close monitoring is necessary for diabetic patients.
• Gout: Chlorthalidone might increase uric acid levels or precipitate gout.
• Dizziness/Drowsiness: The medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness, so be cautious when driving or operating machinery. Get up slowly from a sitting or lying position to prevent dizziness.
• Alcohol: Avoid or limit alcohol consumption as it can increase the blood pressure-lowering effect and other side effects like dizziness.
• Diet: Maintain a low-salt diet and avoid excessive potassium-rich foods or supplements unless advised by your doctor.
• Children: Not recommended for use in children below 18 years of age.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you forget to take your dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one. Missing doses of antihypertensives can lead to high blood pressure and other heart-related complications.

How should it be stored?

TELMA CT 80/12.5 MG TABLET should be stored at room temperature, ideally around 25°C, and below 30°C. Keep it safe from excessive heat, direct sunlight, and moisture. Ensure it is kept out of reach of children and pets.