Targit 20 Mg Tablet (15 Tab)

TARGIT 20 MG TABLET by PFIZER LIMITED

Name

Brand Name: TARGIT 20 MG TABLET Common Name: Telmisartan (as the active ingredient)

Composition

TARGIT 20 MG TABLET contains Telmisartan 20 mg as its active ingredient.

Uses

TARGIT 20 MG TABLET is primarily used for the following conditions:

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): It is used to manage high blood pressure in adults by relaxing blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood.
• Cardiovascular Risk Reduction: It helps to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack, stroke, and cardiovascular death, especially in individuals aged 55 and above with risk factors like diabetes, high cholesterol, or a history of smoking.
• Heart Failure: It is used to treat heart failure by reducing blood pressure and easing the strain on the heart, improving blood flow and reducing fluid buildup.
• Kidney Protection: It aids in preserving kidney function in patients with diabetes and hypertension.

Dosage and Administration

TARGIT 20 MG TABLET should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

• It is usually taken once daily, with or without food.
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush, chew, or break it.
• Taking the medicine at the same time each day is recommended for optimal effectiveness.
• The typical starting dose for adults is often 40 mg once daily, but the doctor may adjust the dose based on the patient's response and needs, up to a maximum of 80 mg daily. Do not adjust the dose without consulting your doctor.

Side Effects

While generally well-tolerated, some common side effects may include:

• Diarrhea
• Sinus infection or sinus inflammation
• Back pain
• Upper respiratory tract infections
• Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Low blood pressure (hypotension)
• Muscle cramps or pain

More serious, though less common, side effects can include elevated potassium levels, liver problems, or kidney dysfunction. Consult your doctor if side effects persist or worsen.

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not take TARGIT 20 MG TABLET if you are allergic to Telmisartan or any of its components.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: TARGIT 20 MG TABLET is not recommended during early pregnancy and is contraindicated after the first trimester as it can cause serious harm to the unborn baby. It is also not recommended for use in breastfeeding women.
• Liver and Kidney Conditions: Use with caution if you have a history of liver or kidney problems. It is not recommended for patients with severe liver problems or biliary obstruction. Regular monitoring of kidney function may be necessary.
• Diabetes: Caution is advised if you have diabetes, especially if you are also being treated with aliskiren.
• Alcohol Consumption: Avoid consuming alcohol as it may increase the risk of low blood pressure and adverse effects like dizziness.
• Driving and Machinery: This medicine may cause dizziness or lightheadedness; exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, as TARGIT 20 MG TABLET can interact with other drugs such as ACE inhibitors, other angiotensin II receptor antagonists, diuretics, lithium, NSAIDs, and potassium supplements, potentially leading to adverse effects like low blood pressure or high potassium levels.

Storage

Store in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight, typically between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC. Keep it in a tightly closed container and out of sight and reach of children.

What is TARGIT 20 MG TABLET used for?

TARGIT 20 MG TABLET, containing Telmisartan, is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults. It also helps reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke, especially in patients aged 55 years or older who have diabetes or heart problems. Additionally, it can be used to protect kidney function in patients with diabetes.

How does TARGIT 20 MG TABLET work?

TARGIT 20 MG TABLET belongs to a class of medicines called Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs). It works by blocking the effects of a hormone called angiotensin II, which normally causes blood vessels to narrow. By blocking this action, Telmisartan relaxes and widens blood vessels, leading to lower blood pressure. It also helps the kidneys remove excess water and salt from the body, further contributing to blood pressure reduction.

What is the usual dosage for TARGIT 20 MG TABLET?

For treating high blood pressure, the typical starting dose of Telmisartan (the active ingredient in TARGIT 20 MG TABLET) is often 40 mg once daily. The dose may be adjusted by your doctor from 20 mg to 80 mg once daily, depending on your individual response and medical condition. TARGIT 20 MG TABLET (20 mg) is a common starting or maintenance dose. It can be taken with or without food.

What are the possible side effects of TARGIT 20 MG TABLET?

Common side effects may include upper respiratory tract infections, back pain, diarrhea, headache, and dizziness. More serious but less common side effects can include kidney problems, very low blood pressure (hypotension), swelling of the face, tongue, or throat (angioedema), and high potassium levels in the blood (hyperkalemia). If you experience severe symptoms like swelling or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

Is TARGIT 20 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

No, TARGIT 20 MG TABLET is generally not safe during pregnancy. It can cause harm or even death to the unborn baby, especially if taken during the second and third trimesters. It is crucial to inform your doctor immediately if you become pregnant or plan to become pregnant while taking this medication.

For breastfeeding mothers, it is not known whether Telmisartan passes into breast milk. Due to the potential for adverse effects on the nursing infant, it is generally not recommended during breastfeeding, and your doctor may suggest safer alternative medications, especially for newborns or premature infants.

Can TARGIT 20 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

TARGIT 20 MG TABLET can interact with several other medications. It is important to inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products you are taking. Key interactions include:

• Potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics: Can increase potassium levels, leading to hyperkalemia.
• Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen: Can reduce the blood pressure-lowering effect and increase the risk of kidney problems.
• Other blood pressure medications (e.g., ACE inhibitors, aliskiren): Concomitant use with aliskiren is contraindicated in patients with diabetes, and dual blockade of the renin-angiotensin system with ACE inhibitors is generally not recommended due to increased risks of low blood pressure, high potassium, and kidney impairment.
• Digoxin and Lithium: Telmisartan can increase the levels of these medications in the blood, requiring careful monitoring.

What precautions should be taken while taking TARGIT 20 MG TABLET?

Regular monitoring of your blood pressure by your doctor is important to ensure the medicine is working effectively. You should also be cautious about activities requiring mental alertness, like driving or operating machinery, as the medication can cause dizziness or lightheadedness. Stay well-hydrated, especially during exercise or in hot weather, as dehydration can worsen low blood pressure. Inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease, heart failure, or diabetes, as these conditions may require special monitoring or dose adjustments. Avoid alcohol consumption as it can increase the risk of low blood pressure.

What happens if a dose of TARGIT 20 MG TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose, 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 TARGIT 20 MG TABLET be stored?

TARGIT 20 MG TABLET should be stored at controlled room temperature, typically between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). It should be protected from light and moisture. Tablets should not be removed from their blister packaging until immediately before you are ready to take them. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children.