Information on Avapro and How to Use It, Precautions and Other Medications to Avoid While Taking

This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.

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Avapro Consumer Information

AVAPRO

Generic Name: irbesartan (er beh SAR tan)

Brand Names: Avapro

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

  • Do not take irbesartan if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. When used during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, irbesartan can cause injury and even death to the developing fetus. Notify your doctor immediately if you think you might be pregnant.
  • Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Irbesartan 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 taking irbesartan.

What is irbesartan?

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

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking irbesartan?

  • Before taking irbesartan, tell your doctor if you
    • have kidney disease;
    • have liver disease;
    • are on a salt-restricted diet or have high levels of potassium in your blood; or
    • are taking a 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 irbesartan, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
  • Irbesartan is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that it is known to be harmful to an unborn baby. When used during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, irbesartan can cause injury and even death to the developing fetus. Do not take irbesartan if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment
  • It is not known whether irbesartan passes into breast milk. Do not take irbesartan without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take irbesartan?

  • Take irbesartan 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.
  • You can take irbesartan with or without food.
  • Your doctor may want to monitor your blood pressure or perform other tests to monitor the effects of this medication.
  • Do not stop taking irbesartan without first talking to your doctor. If you stop taking the medication, your condition could become worse.
  • Store irbesartan 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 an irbesartan overdose are not well known, but might include dizziness, weakness, fainting, fatigue, and chest pain.

What should I avoid while taking irbesartan?

  • Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Irbesartan 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 taking irbesartan.
  • Do not use salt substitutes or take potassium supplements without first talking to your doctor. Irbesartan can affect potassium levels in the body.

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