Manufacturer: Sanofi Aventis, Synthelabo
Pharmaceutical name: Pack: 1 tab (300 mg)
Avapro (Irbesartan) is in a group of drugs called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. Irbesartan keeps blood vessels from narrowing, which lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow.
Avapro is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is sometimes given together with other blood pressure medications.
Avapro is also used to treat kidney problems caused by type 2 (not insulin-dependent) diabetes.
Do not use Avapro if you are pregnant. Stop using this medication and tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant. You should not use Avapro if you are allergic to Irbesartan.
Before you take Avapro, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease, congestive heart failure, or if you are dehydrated.
Drinking alcohol can further lower your blood pressure and may increase certain side effects of Avapro. Do not use potassium supplements or salt substitutes while you are taking Avapro, unless your doctor has told you to.
Your blood pressure will need to be checked often. Visit your doctor regularly.
If you are being treated for high blood pressure, keep using Avapro even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms.
In rare cases, Avapro can cause a condition that results in the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, leading to kidney failure. Call your doctor right away if you have unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness especially if you also have fever, unusual tiredness, and dark colored urine.
Before taking Avapro:
You should not use Avapro if you are allergic to irbesartan.
To make sure you can safely take Avapro, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:
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kidney disease;
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liver disease;
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congestive heart failure; or
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if you are dehydrated.
