Telsar Ch 80/12.5

TELSAR CH 80/12.5 by Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Name

• Brand Name: TELSAR CH 80/12.5 (also referred to as Telsar CH 80/12.5mg Tablet)

Composition

• TELSAR CH 80/12.5MG is a fixed-dose combination medication containing Telmisartan 80 mg and Chlorthalidone 12.5 mg per tablet.
• Telmisartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), which helps relax and widen blood vessels to lower blood pressure.
• Chlorthalidone is a diuretic (water pill) that aids in removing excess salt and water from the body, thereby reducing blood pressure.

Uses

• TELSAR CH 80/12.5 is primarily used for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure).
• It is prescribed for patients who require both Telmisartan and Chlorthalidone to achieve optimal blood pressure control.
• The medication helps to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney problems associated with uncontrolled hypertension. It can also help manage fluid retention (edema) linked to hypertension.

Dosage and Administration

• Take TELSAR CH 80/12.5 orally with or without food, as directed by your doctor.
• It is recommended to take the medication regularly, ideally at the same time each day for consistency.
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not chew, bite, crush, or break it.
• To prevent frequent urination at night due to the diuretic component, it is advisable to take this medicine in the morning.
• Do not stop taking the medicine abruptly, even if your blood pressure is controlled, as this may cause it to rise again and increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the next scheduled dose, in which case skip the missed dose and continue the regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.

Side Effects

• Common Side Effects: Headache, dizziness, fatigue, muscle cramps, increased frequency of urination (therapeutic effect, not a side effect), nausea, diarrhea, back pain, sinus infection, cold/flu symptoms, and altered blood lipids.
• Most common side effects often resolve over time.
• Serious Side Effects (Contact your doctor immediately if experienced): Signs of hypokalaemia (low potassium level in blood) such as muscular weakness, racing heartbeat, or extreme tiredness. Overdose symptoms can include low blood pressure, dizziness, fast or slow heart rate, sleeplessness, hypovolaemia, and electrolyte imbalances.

Precautions

• Pregnancy: TELSAR CH 80/12.5MG is not recommended during pregnancy as it may harm the unborn baby.
• Breastfeeding: Not recommended during breastfeeding as it may pass into breast milk and harm the nursing infant.
• Alcohol: Moderate alcohol consumption is generally safe, but excessive intake may increase the risk of low blood pressure. Avoid consuming alcohol while on this medication as it can heighten the risk of low blood pressure and other side effects.
• Medical Conditions: Use with caution in patients with impaired kidney function, liver disease, diabetes, and electrolyte imbalances. It should not be used in patients with severe kidney disease or severe liver problems.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications you are currently taking, including supplements and herbals, to avoid potential interactions.
  • Avoid potassium supplements as it can elevate potassium levels.
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can reduce the blood pressure-lowering effects and increase the risk of kidney problems.
  • The diuretic effect can affect blood glucose levels, potentially reducing the effectiveness of anti-diabetic medicines.
  • Use with caution with medicines for heart failure like digoxin.
• Driving: May cause dizziness and drowsiness, which can impair driving abilities; exercise caution.
• Children: Not recommended for use in children below 18 years of age; safety and effectiveness have not been established.
• Dehydration: Chlorthalidone may increase urination and lead to fluid loss; ensure adequate fluid intake to stay hydrated.

Storage

• Store at room temperature (20-25°C). Some sources specify below 25°C or below 30°C.
• Protect from moisture and light.
• Keep in its original container, tightly closed.
• Keep out of sight and reach of children.

TELSAR CH 80/12.5 is a medication prescribed for managing high blood pressure (hypertension). It is a combination of two active ingredients: Telmisartan and Chlorthalidone.

What is TELSAR CH 80/12.5 used for?

TELSAR CH 80/12.5 is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults, especially when a single medication is not sufficient to control blood pressure effectively. By lowering blood pressure, it helps to reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney problems. It also helps manage fluid retention (edema) associated with hypertension.

How does TELSAR CH 80/12.5 work?

This medication works through the combined action of its two components:

• Telmisartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). It relaxes and widens blood vessels by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a hormone that narrows blood vessels and increases blood pressure. This allows blood to flow more easily, thus lowering blood pressure.
• Chlorthalidone is a thiazide-like diuretic, also known as a "water pill." It works by increasing the removal of excess salt and water from the body through urine, which helps to reduce fluid retention and lower blood pressure.

What is the usual dosage for TELSAR CH 80/12.5?

TELSAR CH 80/12.5 is typically taken orally, once a day. It can be taken with or without food, but it is recommended to take it at the same time each day for consistency. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage based on your medical condition and how you respond to the medication. It's often recommended to take it in the morning to avoid frequent urination at night.

What are the possible side effects of TELSAR CH 80/12.5?

Common side effects may include dizziness, feeling tired or fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, back pain, headache, and cold/flu symptoms. Other possible side effects include muscle cramps, increased frequency of urination (which is also a therapeutic effect of the diuretic component), decreased potassium levels in the blood, and increased uric acid levels in the blood. Most of these side effects are usually mild and may resolve over time. However, if any side effects persist or worsen, you should consult your doctor.

Is TELSAR CH 80/12.5 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

No, TELSAR CH 80/12.5 is generally not recommended during pregnancy as it poses a definite risk to the developing baby and may cause harm or fetal abnormalities. If you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or suspect you might be pregnant, you should inform your doctor immediately for safer alternatives.

Similarly, it is generally considered unsafe during breastfeeding as it is known to pass into breast milk, and its effect on the nursing infant is not known, or it may harm the infant. Your doctor may suggest an alternative medicine or advise you to stop breastfeeding while on this medication.

Can TELSAR CH 80/12.5 be taken with other medications?

TELSAR CH 80/12.5 can interact with several other medications. It is crucial to inform your doctor about all prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.

Some notable interactions include:

• Other diuretics (e.g., furosemide, torsemide) may increase the risk of dehydration and low blood pressure.
• Other blood pressure medications like ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, or aliskiren can significantly lower blood pressure. Combining it with aliskiren in diabetic patients is particularly cautioned against, as it can lead to a life-threatening condition.
• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen can reduce the blood pressure-lowering effects of TELSAR CH 80/12.5 and increase the risk of kidney problems.
• Lithium (a mood stabilizer) levels in the blood can increase, leading to an increased risk of toxicity.
• Anti-diabetic medicines (e.g., metformin, insulin) may have their effectiveness reduced, as TELSAR CH 80/12.5 can affect blood glucose levels.
• Potassium supplements should be avoided as TELSAR CH 80/12.5 can increase blood potassium levels.

What precautions should be taken with TELSAR CH 80/12.5?

Several precautions should be considered:

• Kidney or Liver Disease: Use with caution, especially in patients with severe kidney or liver disease. Dosage adjustments may be necessary, and it may not be recommended in severe cases.
• Low Blood Pressure: It should not be given to people with low blood pressure (hypotension).
• Diabetes: Caution is advised as it may affect blood sugar levels.
• Allergies: Do not take if you are allergic to TELSAR CH 80/12.5 or its components, or to penicillin or sulfa drugs.
• Dehydration: The diuretic component can cause increased urination and fluid loss, so staying adequately hydrated is important.
• Alcohol: Moderate alcohol consumption may be generally safe, but excessive alcohol can increase the risk of low blood pressure.
• Driving: This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness, so exercise caution when driving or operating machinery.
• Sudden Stoppage: Do not stop taking the medication abruptly without your doctor's advice, as this can lead to an increase in blood pressure and risk of heart attack or stroke.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of TELSAR CH 80/12.5, 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 the missed one, as this can lead to excessively low blood pressure.

How should TELSAR CH 80/12.5 be stored?

Store TELSAR CH 80/12.5 at room temperature, ideally below 30°C (86°F), and away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, and out of the reach and sight of children. Ensure the medication is used before its expiry date.