Irbesartan Dosage, Side Effects

Irbesartan dosage, side effects:

Generic Name: Irbesartan
Drug Class: Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB)

Brand Names

Irbesartan is sold under various brand names worldwide, including:

United States & Canada

Avapro (primary brand name in the US, Canada, and many countries)

Europe & Other Regions

Aprovel (common in the UK, France, and other European countries)
Karvea (Australia, some European markets)
Irbetan (some countries)
Irovel (India, some Asian markets)
Irbepress (alternative brand in certain regions)

Approved Uses

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) – Lowers blood pressure by blocking angiotensin II.
Diabetic Nephropathy (Kidney Protection in Type 2 Diabetes) – Helps slow kidney damage in patients with diabetes and high blood pressure.

Dosage Forms

Tablets: Typically available in 75 mg, 150 mg, and 300 mg strengths.

Key Features

Does not require activation by the liver (unlike some other ARBs).
Long half-life (~11–16 hours), allowing once-daily dosing.
Minimal interaction with food, can be taken with or without meals.

Side Effects

Common:

Dizziness, fatigue, headache
Mild gastrointestinal issues (nausea, diarrhea)

Serious (rare):

High potassium levels (hyperkalemia)
Kidney function changes
Severe allergic reactions (angioedema—rare but possible)

Contraindications & Warnings

Pregnancy (Category D): Can harm or kill the fetus; contraindicated.
Renal Impairment: Dose adjustment may be needed in severe kidney disease.
Hyperkalemia Risk: Caution with potassium-sparing diuretics or potassium supplements.

Notable Drug Interactions

NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen): May reduce effectiveness and increase kidney risk.
Lithium: Increased lithium toxicity risk.
Diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide): Enhanced blood pressure-lowering effect.

Conclusion

Irbesartan is a widely used ARB for hypertension and diabetic kidney protection, marketed under names like Avapro, Aprovel, and Karvea. It is generally well-tolerated but requires monitoring in certain high-risk patients.