Irbesartan

Information about Irbesartan

Irbesartan uses

Irbesartan is used in the treatment of Hypertension (high blood pressure) and prevention of heart attack and stroke.

How irbesartan works

Irbesartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB). It relaxes the blood vessel by blocking the action of a chemical that usually makes blood vessels tighter. This lowers the blood pressure, allowing the blood to flow more smoothly to different organs and the heart to pump more efficiently.

Common side effects of irbesartan

Increased potassium level in blood, Dizziness, Orthostatic hypotension (sudden lowering of blood pressure on standing), Diarrhea, Dyspepsia, Acute renal failure, Angioedema (swelling of deeper layers of skin), Anaphylactic shock, Jaundice

Available Medicine for Irbesartan

  • ₹195 to ₹285
    Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd
    2 variant(s)
  • ₹213 to ₹287
    Abbott
    2 variant(s)
  • ₹154
    Shilpex Pharmysis
    1 variant(s)
  • ₹240
    Vivid Biotek Pvt Ltd
    1 variant(s)
  • ₹175
    Johnlee Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd
    1 variant(s)
  • ₹149
    AAR ESS Remedies Pvt Ltd
    1 variant(s)
  • ₹81 to ₹133
    East West Pharma
    2 variant(s)
  • ₹185 to ₹265
    Cmg Biotech Pvt Ltd
    2 variant(s)
  • ₹153
    Ark Life Sciences Pvt Ltd
    1 variant(s)
  • ₹90
    Knoll Pharmaceuticals Ltd
    1 variant(s)

Expert advice for Irbesartan

  • It can make you feel dizzy for the first few days. Rise slowly if you have been sitting or lying down for a long time.
  • Your doctor may get regular tests done to monitor the level of urea, creatinine, and potassium in your blood.
  • Avoid taking anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen along with this medicine without consulting your doctor.
  • Do not take Irbesartan if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Do not stop taking it suddenly without talking to your doctor.

Frequently asked questions for Irbesartan

Irbesartan

Q. Which class does Irbesartan belong to?
Irbesartan belongs to a class of medicines called angiotensin II receptor antagonists (AIIRAs). Angiotensin II is a substance that occurs naturally in the body. It tightens the blood vessels, which in turn increases the blood pressure. Irbesartan blocks this effect so that the blood vessels relax, which helps lower your blood pressure.
Q. How should I take Irbesartan?
You should take Irbesartan exactly as directed by your doctor. It is for oral use and is usually taken once a day. You should take it with plenty of water, with or without food. It is recommended that you take this medicine at the same time every day.
Q. What if I forget to take a dose of Irbesartan?
If you have missed a dose of Irbesartan, take it as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take it in the regular schedule instead of taking the missed dose. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one as this may increase the chances of developing side effects.
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Q. How long does Irbesartan take to start working?
Irbesartan may take about 2 weeks to show a visible reduction in blood pressure. Full benefits of Irbesartan may take a little longer, about 4 weeks.
Q. What is the most important information I should know about Irbesartan?
You need to know that this medicine can cause harm or death to your unborn baby. Therefore, if you are planning a pregnancy or have become pregnant, consult your doctor right away. Your doctor may switch you to a different medicine to treat your high blood pressure.
Q. Is Irbesartan better than telmisartan?
Both Irbesartan and telmisartan are blood pressure-lowering medicines. Irbesartan is a relatively new medicine. It is as effective as telmisartan in lowering blood pressure. It can be safely used in patients as it has fewer side effects.
Q. Can I stop Irbesartan on my own?
No, do not stop taking Irbesartan without speaking to your doctor, even if you are feeling well or your blood pressure is controlled. Stopping it suddenly may increase your blood pressure which may increase your risk of stroke.
Q. What are the symptoms of overdose of Irbesartan?
Taking more than the recommended dose of Irbesartan may decrease your blood pressure due to which you may feel dizzy or may even faint. Consult your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical aid in a nearby hospital.
Q. What other lifestyle changes should I make while taking Irbesartan?
Lifestyle changes play a major role in keeping you healthy if you are taking Irbesartan. Avoid taking excess salt in your diet and find ways to reduce or manage stress in your life. Practice yoga or meditation or take up a hobby. Ensure that you have a sound sleep every night as this also helps to reduce stress levels and helps to keep your blood pressure normal. Stop smoking and alcohol consumption as this helps in lowering your blood pressure and preventing heart problems. Exercise regularly and take a balanced diet that includes whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables, and fat-free products. Consult your doctor if you need any further guidance to get the maximum benefit of Irbesartan and to keep yourself healthy.

Content on this page was last updated on 14 June, 2022, by Dr. Varun Gupta (MD Pharmacology)