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Medicine Highlights
| Uses | 1- To treat high blood pressure (Hypertension) 2- Risk of heart attack or stroke |
| Common Side Effects | 1- Sinus pain and congestion 2- Back pain 3- Diarrhea |
| Additional Information | Avoid taking alcohol or tobacco with this medicine. |
| Storage | 1- The medicine should be stored at room temperature 2- Keep away from sunlight and moisture 3- Keep away from the reach of children |
| How to Take This Medicine | The medicine should be taken orally |
Telmisartan Summary
Telmisartan 40 mg is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) used to manage high blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels and improving blood flow. It helps reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney problems in hypertensive patients. This medication should be taken exactly as prescribed, at the same time each day, for the best results. Missing doses or stopping it abruptly without a doctor’s advice may lead to uncontrolled blood pressure. While generally well-tolerated, potential side effects include dizziness, swelling, and changes in vision. For optimal effectiveness, pair Telmisartan with a healthy lifestyle-maintain a balanced diet rich in leafy greens, fruits, and whole grains, while avoiding excessive salt, alcohol, and tobacco. Regular exercise, weight management, and quality sleep further enhance its benefits. Pregnant women and individuals with kidney issues should consult their doctor before use. Store it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
Telmisartan Uses
Telmisartan 40 mg is an oral medicine belonging to the class of angiotensin receptor blocker medicines. It is used for the following indications:
- High blood pressure/Hypertension
- Heart attack or problem with blood flow to the brain (stroke)
Direction for Use
- Take telmisartan exactly as prescribed by your doctor, regularly at the same time each day.
- Do not stop taking telmisartan without your doctor’s approval, even if you feel better.
- If you forget to take the medicine, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for the next one, then just skip it.
Telmisartan Side Effects
More Common
- Sinus pain and congestion
- Back pain
- Diarrhea
- Sore throat
- Upset stomach
- muscle pain
- headache
- dizziness
- Fatigue
- nausea
Less Common
- Changes in vision
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
- Fast heartbeat
- Large hives
- Painful urination or changes in urinary frequency
- Swelling in the hands, lower legs, and feet
How Telmisartan Works
Telmisartan reduces blood pressure by blocking a protein called angiotensin II from binding to the AT1 receptor. By preventing this binding, telmisartan reduces vessel contraction, leading to a decrease in blood pressure.
Safety Measure and Warning
📌 1- Allergy/Hypersensitivity
If you have previously had an allergy to this medicine then inform your doctor before he prescribes you the medicine.
📌 2- Kidney Problem
If you have any kidney disease then inform your doctor as this medicine can further damage your kidney.
📌 3- Pregnant Women
Women who are pregnant or planning to conceive should inform their doctor, as telmisartan can harm the fetus.
Telmisartan Interaction With Other Medicine
Avoid taking telmisartan 40 mg with the following medicines, as it may increase or decrease the desired effect, or in worse cases, it could be fatal:
Telmisartan Interaction With Food Products
Alcohol and tobacco should not be taken with this medicine, as they can either decrease or increase its effects.
Storage
- The medicine should be stored at room temperature
- Keep away from sunlight and moisture
- Keep away from the reach of children
Telmisartan Chemical Structure
IUPAC (International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry)/ Chemical name
4′-[(1,7′-dimethyl-2′-propyl-1H,3′H-2,5′-benzimidazole-3′-yl)methyl]-2-biphenyl carboxylic acid
Intake Routine/Cycle
📌 Daily Dose
Take telmisartan exactly as your doctor recommends. The dose may change based on your condition and how well you respond. Do not take more than prescribed without consulting your doctor.
📌 Missed Dose
If you forget to take your medicine, take the medication soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Always consult the doctor before making any changes to your dosage.
📌 Overdose
There is limited data regarding the toxic dose of telmisartan on humans; however, symptoms of overdose may include hypotension, dizziness, tachycardia, and bradycardia. If someone you know is taking telmisartan and exhibits any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
Dietary and Lifestyle Management
A few modifications in your diet and lifestyle can significantly help manage your blood pressure, to the point where your doctor may determine that medication is no longer necessary. Here are some dietary changes and lifestyle practices that can help you manage your blood pressure:
Lose Weight
Weight gain is directly linked to higher blood pressure. If you’re overweight or obese, losing weight can help lower your blood pressure. Pay attention to the weight around your waistline as well, excess weight in this area can be a significant risk factor for high blood pressure.
Regular Exercise
Exercise can lower your blood pressure by 5 to 8 mm Hg. Engaging in 30 minutes of physical activity daily can significantly help reduce your blood pressure. Activities like walking, jogging, cycling, swimming, and dancing are all effective in keeping your blood pressure under control.
Eat Healthy
Choosing a healthy diet not only helps lower your blood pressure but also offers numerous other health benefits. Incorporate the following foods into your diet to help reduce your blood pressure:
Quit or limit alcohol consumption
Alcohol can cause blood vessels to narrow, increasing the heart’s pumping workload. Therefore, it is best to quit or limit alcohol consumption.
Quit Smoking
Cigarettes contain nicotine, an addictive substance that causes blood vessels to constrict, leading to an increase in blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure, it’s crucial to avoid smoking to protect your heart and overall health.
Increase your Sleep Duration
Lack of sleep forces your heart to work harder, causing your blood vessels to constrict, which can lead to high blood pressure. Aiming for 7 to 8 hours of sleep is ideal for those with elevated blood pressure.
FAQ’s
1. How much time does a telmisartan take to work?
➡️ The effects of telmisartan are noticeable within about 3 hours of the first dose, and the full impact on blood pressure is typically observed 4 to 8 weeks after starting treatment.
2. Can telmisartan be taken twice a day?
➡️ No, you do not need to take telmisartan twice a day, as its duration of action lasts for 24 hours.
3. Can telmisartan be taken on an empty stomach?
➡️ Yes, you can take the medicine with or without food; however, it is important to follow your doctor’s advice, as they can provide the best guidance based on your specific condition.
4. Can telmisartan increase creatinine levels?
➡️ In an observational study conducted on 56 patients with chronic kidney disease, the administration of telmisartan resulted in a significant decrease in serum creatinine levels. This finding suggests that telmisartan does not increase creatinine levels.
Reference
- Mayo Clinic. 10 ways to control high blood pressure without medicine [Internet]. Rochester (MN): Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; c1998–2024 [updated 2023 Nov 11; cited 2024 Dec 11]. Available from.
- American Heart Association News. Irregular sleep schedule linked to high blood pressure [Internet]. Dallas (TX): American Heart Association; 2023 Mar 28 [cited 2024 Dec 11]. Available from.
- Drugs.com. Telmisartan [Internet]. Updated 2023 Nov 1 [cited 2024 Dec 11]. Available from.
- Electronic Medicines Compendium. Telmisartan 40 mg, 80 mg, and 160 mg film-coated tablets: Summary of Product Characteristics [Internet]. London: Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency; [updated 2023 Sep 14; cited 2024 Dec 11]. Available from.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Micardis (telmisartan) tablets: FDA label [Internet]. Silver Spring (MD): U.S. Food and Drug Administration; 2009 [cited 2024 Dec 11]. Available from.
- Mayo Clinic. Telmisartan (Oral Route) description [Internet]. Rochester (MN): Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; [updated 2023 Sep 7; cited 2024 Dec 11]. Available from.
- Agrawal A, Kamila S, Reddy S, Lilly J, Mariyala MS. Effect of telmisartan on kidney function in patients with chronic kidney disease: an observational study. J Drug Assess. 2016 Nov 4;5(1):24-28. doi: 10.1080/21556660.2016.1252380. PMID: 27994942; PMCID: PMC5136975. Available from.
- Medical News Today. 11 foods that help lower blood pressure [Internet]. New York: Healthline Media; 2023 [cited 2024 Dec 11]. Available from.
