IRBESARTAN

Irbesartan can cause injury and possibly death to a developing fetus when used during pregnancy. Talk with your doctor at once if you suspect that you are pregnant. If you are planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about other treatment options.

Dizziness, lightheadedness, or upset stomach may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.

Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: fainting, symptoms of a high potassium blood level (such as muscle weakness, slow/irregular heartbeat).

Precautions

Before taking irbesartan, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease, severe loss of body water and minerals (dehydration).

Interactions

Some products that may interact with this drug include: aliskiren, lithium, drugs that may increase the level of potassium in the blood (such as ACE inhibitors including benazepril/lisinopril, birth control pills containing drospirenone).

Check the labels on all your medicines (such as cough-and-cold products, diet aids, or NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, naproxen) because they may contain ingredients that could increase your blood pressure or worsen your heart failure. Ask your pharmacist for more details.

Symptoms of overdose may include: severe dizziness, fainting. If overdose is suspected, bring the victim to the hospital immediately.

Available brands:

• Idezar (Westmont)
• Irbevex (VE Pharma)
• Irbepro (PPC)
• Irbezyd (Zydus Healthcare Phils)
• Virbez (ACME)