Pregnancy Risk Category C (D in second and third trimesters)
How supplied
Capsules: 80 mg, 160 mg
Action
Blocks the binding of angiotensin II to receptor sites in vascular smooth muscle and the adrenal gland, which inhibits the pressor effects of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.
Indications & dosage
Hypertension (used alone or with other antihypertensives)--
Adults: initially, 80 mg P.O. once daily. Expect to see a reduction in blood pressure in 2 to 4 weeks. If additional antihypertensive effect is needed, dosage may be increased to 160 or 320 mg daily, or a diuretic may be added. (Addition of a diuretic has a greater effect than dosage increases beyond 80 mg.) Usual dosage range is 80 to 320 mg daily.
Adverse reactions
CNS: dizziness, headache, insomnia, fatigue.
CV: edema.
EENT: rhinitis, sinusitis, pharyngitis.
GI: abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea.
Hematologic: neutropenia.
Metabolic: hyperkalemia.
Musculoskeletal: arthralgia.
Respiratory: upper respiratory tract infection, cough.
Other: viral infection.
Interactions
Drug-drug. Diuretics: risk of excessive hypotension. Assess fluid status before starting concomitant therapy. Monitor closely.
Potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium: increased risk of hyperkalemia. Monitor serum potassium level closely.
Drug-food. Any food: decreased peak levels. Give drug on an empty stomach.
Effects on diagnostic tests
None reported.
Contraindications
Contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to drug.
Nursing considerations
Patient teaching
*Liquid contains alcohol. **May contain tartrazine. †Canada ‡Australia §U.K. OTCOver the counter
Reactions may be common, uncommon, life-threatening, or COMMON AND LIFE-THREATENING