Micardis Plus
Micardis Plus Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Micardis Plus is a brand name. Its generic name is Telmisartan + Hydrochlorothiazide.
Introduction
Micardis Plus is a combination drug containing telmisartan, a selective angiotensin II receptor antagonist, and hydrochlorothiazide, a thiazide diuretic. It is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure).Uses for
Micardis Plus is prescribed to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) in adults and adolescents (12 years and older). It may in some cases be used to treat heart failure or kidney failure related to hypertension. In addition, it may be used to reduce the risk of stroke or heart attack in patients at risk for these complications.Mechanism of Action
Telmisartan works by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a hormone which narrows blood vessels and increases blood pressure. Hydrochlorothiazide, a thiazide diuretic, works by increasing the amount of salt and water removed from the body, helping to lower blood pressure.How long does it take to work?
It can take several weeks of regular use for Micardis Plus to reach its full effect on blood pressure. However, some people may notice an improvement sooner, typically within 1–2 weeks.Absorption
Once taken, Micardis Plus is quickly absorbed in the body, with peak concentration reached within 1-3 hours.Route of Elimination
After being absorbed in the body, Micardis Plus is eliminated primarily through the kidneys.Dosage
The recommended starting dose of Micardis Plus in adults and adolescents (12 years and older) with hypertension is 40 mg/12.5 mg once daily. Depending on blood pressure response, the dose may be increased to 80 mg once daily, if necessary. The maximum dose is 80 mg/25 mg per day.Administration
Micardis Plus should be taken orally with or without food, once daily.Side Effect
Common side effects of Micardis Plus includes dizziness, headache, stuffy or runny nose, nausea, abdominal pain, sore throat, cough, fatigue, impotence in men, and menstrual irregularities in women.Toxicity
Micardis Plus has been found to be safe when taken as prescribed. On rare occasions, overdose of Micardis Plus can lead to severe hypotension (low blood pressure), orthostatic hypotension (fall in blood pressure when changing posture from sitting to standing), or electrolyte imbalance.Precaution
Micardis Plus must not be administered during pregnancy, since it can cause harm to the developing fetus. Patients should notify their doctor if they become pregnant while taking the drug. The drug should also be used cautiously in patients with liver disease, kidney disease, diabetes, and in elderly patients.Interaction
Micardis Plus may interact with other drugs, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), warfarin, lithium, ibuprofen, and aspirin.Disease Interaction
Micardis Plus may worsen conditions associated with kidney failure, such as high potassium levels, low blood pressure, and lupus.Drug Interaction
Drugs that can interact with Micardis Plus include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), warfarin, lithium, ibuprofen, and aspirin.Food Interactions
No food interactions have been reported with Micardis Plus.Pregnancy Use
Micardis Plus must not be administered during pregnancy, as it can cause harm to the developing fetus. Patients should notify their doctor if they become pregnant while taking the drug.Lactation Use
It is not known whether Micardis Plus passes into breast milk. It should be avoided while breastfeeding, as it may cause harm to the nursing infant.Acute Overdose
Acute overdose of Micardis Plus can lead to severe hypotension (low blood pressure), orthostatic hypotension (fall in blood pressure when changing posture from sitting to standing), or electrolyte imbalance.Contraindication
Micardis Plus should not be used in patients with allergy or hypersensitivity to any of its components, or in patients with severe renal impairment.Use direction
Micardis Plus should be taken orally with or without food, once daily.Storage condition
Micardis Plus should be stored at room temperature (59–86°F/ 15–30°C).Volume of Distribution
Micardis Plus is widely distributed throughout the body, with a volume of distribution of about 4.3 L/kg.Half Life
The elimination half-life of Micardis Plus is about 11–14 hours.Clearance
The total clearance of Micardis Plus is approximately 0.3 L/hr/kg.Here you find in details version of Micardis Plus
Some Frequently Asked Questions About Micardis Plus
What is Micardis Plus?
Micardis Plus is a medication combination containing the drugs telmisartan and hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ). It is used to lower high blood pressure (hypertension) and treat edema.
How does Micardis Plus work?
Telmisartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) and HCTZ is a thiazide diuretic (water pill). The combination of the two drugs works together to lower blood pressure by blocking the hormone angiotensin II, which normally causes blood vessels to constrict, thus protecting the outer walls of blood vessels and lowering blood pressure.
What are the possible side effects of Micardis Plus?
Common side effects include headache, dizziness, tiredness, nausea, joint pain, and chest pain. More serious side effects may include electrolyte imbalance and, rarely, allergic reactions or anaphylaxis.
When should I take Micardis Plus?
Micardis Plus is usually taken once a day with food. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions exactly when taking this medication.
Is Micardis Plus safe?
Yes, Micardis Plus is generally considered safe when used as prescribed. It is important to tell your doctor about any other medications or health conditions you have before taking Micardis Plus.
Is Micardis Plus a diuretic?
Yes, Micardis Plus contains a diuretic (HCTZ) which helps to remove excess water from the body.
What is the difference between Telmisartan and Hydrochlorothiazide?
Telmisartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) and Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is a thiazide diuretic (water pill). The combination of the two drugs works together to lower blood pressure by blocking the hormone angiotensin II, which normally causes blood vessels to constrict, thus protecting the outer walls of blood vessels and lowering blood pressure.
Can I take Micardis Plus with other medications?
You should not take Micardis Plus with other medications without consulting with your doctor. Some medications can interact with Micardis Plus and cause serious side effects.
What should I do if I forget a dose of Micardis Plus?
If you forget to take a dose of Micardis Plus, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses.
Does Micardis Plus cause weight gain?
Micardis Plus is not known to cause weight gain, although it can cause fluid retention in some people. If you experience unusual weight gain, talk to your doctor.
Can Micardis Plus be used for other conditions?
Micardis Plus is primarily used to lower high blood pressure and treat edema. Your doctor may prescribe this medication for other conditions as well.
Is Micardis Plus covered by insurance?
Yes, Micardis Plus is generally covered by most insurance plans. Check with your insurance provider for specific details.
Does Micardis Plus cause drowsiness?
Micardis Plus may cause drowsiness or dizziness in some people. If you experience any of these side effects, do not drive or operate heavy machinery.
Can I drink alcohol while on Micardis Plus?
It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Micardis Plus, as alcohol can increase the risk of side effects. If you choose to drink alcohol while taking this medication, do so in moderation and talk to your doctor about any potential interactions.
Can I take Micardis Plus while pregnant?
Micardis Plus should not be used by pregnant women, as it can cause harm to the fetus. Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant while taking this medication.
Can I take Micardis Plus while breastfeeding?
Micardis Plus should be used with caution in breastfeeding women, as it is not known if it is excreted in breast milk. Talk to your doctor about your individual risks.
What happens if I overdose on Micardis Plus?
Seek immediate medical attention if you take an overdose of Micardis Plus. Symptoms of an overdose may include hypotension (low blood pressure), dizziness, and fainting. Do not take more than your prescribed dose.
Does Micardis Plus affect kidney function?
Micardis Plus may affect kidney function in some people. This is more likely to occur if you have existing kidney problems. Talk to your doctor about your individual risks.
Does Micardis Plus cause headaches?
Headache is a common side effect of Micardis Plus. If the headache becomes severe or persistent, talk to your doctor about other treatment options.
Can Micardis Plus cause constipation?
Micardis Plus may cause constipation in some people. If you experience constipation, speak with your doctor about other treatments or diet changes to help relieve your symptoms.
Which drugs interact with Micardis Plus?
Certain drugs can interact with Micardis Plus, including potassium-sparing diuretics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and lithium. Talk to your doctor about all medications you are taking to minimize drug interactions.
How long does it take for Micardis Plus to work?
The effect of Micardis Plus may be noticed within 1- 2 weeks. However, it may take several weeks for the full effects of the medication to be seen. Follow your doctor's instructions relating to how long you should take the medication.
What should I do if I have side effects with Micardis Plus?
If you experience side effects with Micardis Plus, such as rash, itching, or difficulty breathing, contact your doctor immediately. You may have an allergic reaction to this medication and will need to stop taking it.
Can Micardis Plus cause dizziness?
Yes, Micardis Plus may cause dizziness in some people. If you experience dizziness, do not drive or operate heavy machinery until the dizziness passes.
What should I do if I experience chest pain while taking Micardis Plus?
If you experience chest pain while taking Micardis Plus, stop taking the medication and contact your doctor immediately. Chest pain can be a sign of a serious medical condition and should not be ignored.
What is the usual dose of Micardis Plus?
The usual starting dose of Micardis Plus is one tablet once a day. Your doctor may increase or decrease your dose as necessary to achieve the desired blood pressure reduction. Do not take more than your prescribed dose.
Can Micardis Plus be crushed?
Micardis Plus tablets should not be crushed or split. If you have difficulty swallowing the tablet whole, talk to your doctor or pharmacist for other alternatives.
Can children take Micardis Plus?
Micardis Plus is not recommended for children or adolescents under the age of 18. Talk to your doctor about other treatment options for high blood pressure in this age group.
How long should I take Micardis Plus for?
Micardis Plus should be taken as instructed by your doctor. Do not stop taking the medication without speaking to your doctor, as this can cause your blood pressure to rise. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions.
Does Micardis Plus lower cholesterol?
Micardis Plus may potentially lower cholesterol levels. Talk to your doctor about your cholesterol levels and your risk factors for heart disease and stroke.
Can Micardis Plus affect my liver function?
Micardis Plus may cause changes in liver function tests. Talk to your doctor if you experience any symptoms of liver damage, such as nausea, weakness, tiredness, or abdominal pain.
Can Micardis Plus be taken with food?
Micardis Plus can be taken with food. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Can Micardis Plus cause elevated blood sugar levels?
Micardis Plus may cause an increase in blood sugar levels. If you experience signs of hyperglycemia such as increased thirst or urination, contact your doctor for further instruction.
Can Micardis Plus cause dry mouth?
Yes, Micardis Plus may cause dry mouth. If this side effect persists or becomes bothersome, talk to your doctor.
Can I take herbal supplements while taking Micardis Plus?
You should consult your doctor before taking herbal supplements while taking Micardis Plus. Some supplements may interact with this medication and increase the risk of side effects.
Is Micardis Plus a generic or brand-name drug?
Micardis Plus is a brand-name drug. It is not available in a generic form.
Does Micardis Plus lower blood pressure immediately?
No, Micardis Plus does not lower blood pressure immediately. It can take 1-2 weeks to see a decrease in blood pressure.
Does Micardis Plus cause urinary frequency?
Micardis Plus may cause urinary frequency in some people. If this side effect persists or becomes bothersome, talk to your doctor.
Does Micardis Plus cause a cough?
Yes, Micardis Plus may cause a cough in some people. If this side effect persists or becomes bothersome, talk to your doctor.
Does Micardis Plus help heart failure?
Micardis Plus may help to reduce the symptoms of heart failure. Talk to your doctor for more information.