Welcome to our atacand information -- just click to return to front page.

Or click here for clinical trials research information on atacand.

Atacand Consumer Information

ATACAND

Generic Name: candesartan (can deh SAR tan)

Brand Names: Atacand

What is the most important information I should know about candesartan?

• Do not take candesartan if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy. When used during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, candesartan can cause injury and even death to the developing baby. Notify your doctor immediately if you think you might be pregnant.
• Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Rarely, candesartan may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities. Also use caution when rising from a sitting or lying position.
• Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may further lower blood pressure and increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking candesartan.

What is candesartan?

• Candesartan is in a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. Candesartan prevents the constriction (narrowing) of blood vessels (veins and arteries).
• Candesartan is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).
• Candesartan may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Who should not take candesartan?

• Before taking candesartan, tell your doctor if you
• have kidney disease;
• have liver disease; or
• are taking potassium supplement (e.g., K-Dur, Klor-Con, others), or a potassium-sparing diuretic such as amiloride (Midamor), triamterene (Dyrenium, Dyazide, Maxzide), or spironolactone (Aldactone).
• You may not be able to take candesartan, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
• Candesartan is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that it is known to harm an unborn baby. When used during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, candesartan can cause injury and even death to the developing baby. Do not take candesartan if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
• It is not known whether candesartan passes into breast milk. Do not take candesartan without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take candesartan?

• Take candesartan exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
• Take each dose with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.
• Candesartan can be taken with or without food.
• Do not stop taking candesartan without first talking to your doctor. Stopping the medication may cause a return of your symptoms.
• Store candesartan at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

• Seek emergency medical attention.
• Symptoms of a candesartan overdose are not well known but might include dizziness, weakness, fainting, and fatigue.

What should I avoid while taking candesartan?

• Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Rarely, candesartan may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities. Also use caution when rising from a sitting or lying position.
• Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may further lower blood pressure and increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking candesartan.
• Do not use salt substitutes or take potassium supplements without first talking to your doctor. Candesartan can affect potassium levels in the body.