Key facts about Telmisartan
What dosages is Telmisartan available in?
Telmisartan is available as a 20 mg, 40 mg, and 80 mg oral tablet.
What is Telmisartan used for?
Telmisartan is an ARB that is used to:
- Treat high blood pressure
- To lower the risk of certain conditions related to high blood pressure, such as strokes and heart attacks
How does Telmisartan work?
Telmisartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB). This type of medication blocks a chemical in your body that normally tightens blood vessels, making your vessels more relaxed. This makes it easier for blood to flow and lowers your blood pressure.
How do I take Telmisartan?
Telmisartan is typically started at 40 mg by mouth once daily. If needed, your provider might raise your dose slowly over time. The recommended maintenance dose ranges from 20 mg to 80 mg once daily.
Is it safe for me to take Telmisartan?
Telmisartan is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not use this medication if you have a known hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylaxis or angioedema) to Telmisartan or any other component of this product.
Telmisartan Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Telmisartan:
- Upper respiratory tract infection
- Back pain
- Sinus infection
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Cough
Telmisartan Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Telmisartan. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Severe allergic reaction: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or throat
- Serious kidney problems: urinating less often than usual, swelling in your feet, ankles, or hands, unexplained weight gain
- High blood potassium levels: nausea, tiredness, chest pain, muscle weakness, tingling or numbness, pounding heart, nausea
- Severely low blood pressure: lightheadedness, dizziness, feeling faint, tiredness, confusion
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Telmisartan
The following medications may interact with Telmisartan:
- NSAIDS: Increased risk of renal impairment and loss of antihypertensive effect
Who makes Telmisartan?
Various FDA-approved generic manufacturers
Is Telmisartan safe in pregnancy?
Telmisartan may cause harm to your unborn baby. Discontinue Telmisartan when pregnancy is recognized.
