Generic Avapro

Irbesartan 150/300mg

Irbesartan is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist. Angiotensin II acts as a vasoconstrictor and also stimulates the release of aldosterone. The result is an elevation in blood pressure. Candesartan binds to the AT1 angiotensin II receptor and blocks the vasoconstriction and the aldosterone-secreting effects of angiotensin II.

Usage.

Irbesartan is used to treat:

• hypertension
• diabetic nephropathy

While ACE inhibitors are still considered first-line therapy in heart failure, candesartan can be used in combination with an ACE.

Drug interactions.

Irbesartan may interact with such drugs, as:

• blood pressure medications
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
• Potassium salts or potassium supplements
• Lithium
• Mercaptopurine
• NSAIDs
• Potassium-sparing diuretics
• Trimethoprim (high dose)
  
  

Irbesartan possible side effects.

• dizziness
• headache
• back pain
• upper respiratory tract infection
• flu-like symptoms
• hyperkalemia
• orthostatic hypotension

Irbesartan and pregnancy / lactation.

Do not use during pregnancy and breast-feeding.

What is the shelf life of the pills?

• The expiry date is mentioned on each blister. It is different for different batches. The shelf life is 2 years from the date of manufacture and would differ from batch to batch depending on when they were manufactured.