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Atacand (Candesartan) is in a class of drugs named angiotonin receptor blockers which admits Cozaar, Diovan and Avapro. Like these other drugs, candesartan blocks the ability of the chemical angiotonin II to raise the blood pressure by constricting or squeezing arterial blood vessels. This goes to a decrease in blood pressure. Additionally, by bringing down the pressure against which the heart must pump blood, candesartan reduces the work of the heart and is useful in patients with coronary failure. The effects of angiotonin II also can be blocked by another class of drugs named angiotonin converting enzyme (ACE inhibitors) which prevent the formation of angiotonin II. ACE inhibitors admit Capoten, Vasotec, Lotensin and Zestril.
Candesartan was approved by the FDA in 1998.
What should I tell my doctor before I take Atacand?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
previous swelling of the tongue, face, or lips with trouble breathing, trouble swallowing, hoarseness, or tightening of the throat
heart failure
renal disorder
liver disease
electrolyte imbalance (e.g. low or high levels of potassium in the blood)
if you are on a special dieting, such as a salt-free diet (for example using potassium replacements)
an unusual or allergic reaction to candesartan, other medications, foods, dyestuffs or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breastfeeding
How should I take Atacand?
Take candesartan tablets orally. Follow the instructions on the prescription. Swallow the tablets with a drink of water. Atacand can be taken with or without food. Take your doses at regular time interval. Do not take Atacand more often than directed. Do not stop taking Atacand except on your doctor's advice.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What drug(s) may interact with candesartan?
blood pressure medications
hawthorn
lithium
MAOIs - monoamine oxidase inhibitors, such as Azilect®, Eldepryl®, Emsam®, Marplan®, Nardil®, Parnate®, Zelapar.
potassium salts or potassium supplements
diuretics (especially potassium-sparing diuretics such as triamterene or amiloride)
Tell your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including nonprescription medicines, nutritional supplements or herbal products. Also tell your doctor if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.
What side effects may I notice from taking candesartan?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor as soon as possible:
Rare or uncommon:
difficulty breathing or swallowing, hoarseness, or tightening of the throat
swelling of your face, lips, tongue, hands, or feet
Other:
confusion, dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting spells
decreased amount of urine passed
fast or uneven heart beat or palpitations
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor if they continue or are bothersome):
back pain
cough
dizziness or lightheadedness
headache
sore throat
nasal congestion or runny nose
What should I watch for while taking candesartan?
Check your blood pressure regularly while you are taking candesartan. Ask your doctor what your blood pressure should be and when you should contact him or her. Call your doctor if you notice an uneven or fast pulse.
It is very important that you take Atacand exactly as ordered by your doctor. Many patients who have high blood pressure will not notice any signs of the problem. Therefore, it is important that you keep regular appointments with your doctor even if you feel well.
If you are going to have surgery tell your doctor that you are taking candesartan.
Women should inform their doctor if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child, particularly in the second or third trimester. Talk to your health care professional or pharmacist for more information.
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.
Store at room temperature between 15.30[0]C (59.86[0]F). Protect from light. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.
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