What is Candesartan?
Also known as (Brand Names): Atacand
Candesartan is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults and children over one year of age. It can also be used to treat heart failure in adults.
Candesartan belongs to a class of drugs known as angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). It works by relaxing blood vessels, thus lowering blood pressure and increasing the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart.
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Candesartan Side Effects & Risks
As with most medications, there are side effects and risks associated with taking candesartan. This is not a complete list. If you experience any other symptoms, contact your doctor.
Common side effects
Low blood pressure, dizziness, fainting, lightheadedness, irregular heartbeat, high potassium levels in the blood, and muscle weakness.
Uncommon side effects
The following side effects are more uncommon:
- Allergic reaction characterized by rash, hives, difficulty swallowing or breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
- Kidney disorder characterized by frequent urination, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and swelling of the extremities.
- Hematuria characterized by blood in the urine.
- Liver disorder characterized by jaundice, dark urine, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite.
- Dyspnea Pulmonary edema characterized by shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
Rare side effects
The following side effects are rarely experienced by patients taking candesartan:
- Rhabdomyolysis characterized by muscle tenderness or weakness, dark brown urine, or unexplainable muscle pain.
Very rare side effects
In very rare cases, people taking candesartan can experience the following side effects:
- Decreased platelets characterized by bruising, bleeding, fatigue, and weakness.
Other side effects
It is unknown how commonly the following side effects occur for patients taking candesartan:
- Inflammation of the pancreas characterized by persistent abdominal pain that gets worse when lying down, nausea, and vomiting.
- Chest pain
- Stroke characterized by abnormal speech, face or arm weakness, blurred vision, or loss of consciousness.
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Candesartan Dosage & Available Forms
Candesartan is only available in tablets of 4mg, 8mg, 16mg, and 32mg. Patients should try to take each dose at the same time each day, with or without food.
The typical dosage used varies widely depending on what it is being used to treat as well as the age and weight of the patient. But a typical adult dose ranges from 8-32 mg daily while the recommended dosage for children (ages 6 to 17) is 4-8 mg daily. Children who weigh more than 50 kg can take up to 16mg daily. Make sure to follow your doctor's orders or the instructions on the label.
It may take up to four weeks to see a reduction in your blood pressure. In many cases, patients with high blood pressure will need to take candesartan for the rest of their lives.
If you think you may have overdosed, seek medical attention immediately. Signs of overdose include dizziness, fast heartbeat, and fainting.
Do Not Take
Patients should avoid taking candesartan if any of the following statements are true.
Allergic reactions
Do not take candesartan if you are allergic to candesartan or any ingredient in the formulation or packaging. You should also avoid taking candesartan if you have ever experience an allergic reaction to any angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs).
Interactions and contraindications
Do not take candesartan with aliskiren, lithium, diuretics, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac, and others. This is not a comprehensive list, so make sure to review all your medications with your doctor before starting atorvastatin.
Children and young adults
Children younger than 1 should not take candesartan because of an increased risk of side effects.
Pregnancy and lactation
Do not use candesartan if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while on the medication, alert your doctor immediately.
Medical history
Make sure to tell your doctor if you have a history of diabetes, kidney disease, electrolyte imbalances, fluid imbalances, or liver disease.
Other precautions
Avoid potassium supplements, salt substitutes, and getting up too quickly.
