Telmisartan is a medication prescribed to manage various cardiovascular conditions. Available as an oral tablet, it relaxes blood vessels, lowering blood pressure and improving blood flow.
Understanding Telmisartan’s Purpose
Telmisartan belongs to a category of medications known as angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). This class of drugs works by preventing angiotensin II, a natural substance, from tightening blood vessels. This action helps relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure.
The medication is primarily prescribed to treat high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, and can be used alone or in combination with other medicines. Additionally, telmisartan is used to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks or strokes in individuals aged 55 years or older who have diabetes or other heart problems. This includes patients with a history of coronary artery disease, peripheral arterial disease, stroke, or transient ischemic attack.
Typical Dosage Guidelines
Telmisartan dosage is tailored to each individual and condition. For high blood pressure, the starting dose for adults is 40 milligrams (mg) once daily. A healthcare provider may adjust this dose, typically ranging from 20 mg to 80 mg per day, based on the patient’s response.
Most patients experience significant blood pressure reduction within two weeks, with maximum effects usually achieved within four weeks. To reduce the risk of heart attacks or strokes, the recommended dose for adults aged 55 and older is 80 mg once daily. Doses lower than 80 mg have not been confirmed effective for this purpose.
Factors Affecting Your Dose
Several factors influence the appropriate telmisartan dose. Kidney function is a consideration; no initial dose adjustment is generally needed for patients with renal impairment, including those on hemodialysis. However, patients undergoing dialysis may risk orthostatic hypotension, a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing, requiring close monitoring.
Liver function is another factor, as telmisartan concentrations can increase in individuals with hepatic insufficiency. For these patients, a lower starting dose and slow titration may be necessary, especially for those with biliary obstructive disorders. Age can also influence dosing, as elderly patients may metabolize the drug more slowly, leading to higher drug levels.
Concurrent medications can affect telmisartan’s dosage due to drug interactions. For instance, combining telmisartan with aliskiren is not recommended for patients with diabetes due to increased risks of hypotension, high potassium levels, and kidney problems. Similarly, using telmisartan with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk of kidney issues, particularly in older adults, those who are dehydrated, or individuals with existing kidney problems.
Proper Administration and What to Do About Doses
Telmisartan tablets are taken once daily, ideally at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels. The tablet can be taken with or without food and should be swallowed whole; do not crush or chew it. Do not stop taking telmisartan without consulting a healthcare professional, as this can lead to complications.
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue the regular schedule. Taking a double dose to compensate for a missed one is not recommended and can lead to an overdose.
Signs of overdose may include dizziness, fainting, lightheadedness, or a rapid heartbeat. If an overdose is suspected, seek immediate emergency medical attention. Store telmisartan tablets in their original packaging at room temperature, away from moisture and heat, until ready for use.