Micardis (Telmisartan)

What is Micardis?

Micardis (telmisartan) belongs to a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor antagonists.

What is Micardis used for?

Micardis is indicated for the treatment of high blood pressure or hypertension. This further helps prevent heart attacks, strokes and kidney problems. Micardis is sometimes given with other blood pressure medicines.

How does Micardis work?

Micardis works by blocking the hormone angiotensin and thus relaxing blood vessels, causing them to widen. This allows sodium and fluid to be stored by the kidneys.

How to use Micardis

Micardis should be taken in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Taking it for longer periods or in larger amounts than recommended can cause health problems.

The drug is usually taken once daily. It can be taken with or without food. Remember to take the medicine at the same time each day.

Get your blood pressure checked on a regular basis while using Micardis.

Micardis warnings and precautions

Do not use this drug if you are allergic to telmisartan. 

Prior to taking Micardis, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease, congestive heart failure, or if you are dehydrated.

Do not get up too fast from a lying or sitting position in order to prevent a fall. Avoid drinking alcohol as it can reduce your blood pressure and may increase some of the side effects of Micardis. While using this medicine, do not take potassium supplements or salt substitutes without consulting your doctor.

Pregnant women should not use this drug as it can cause harm (or even death) to an unborn child. If you plan to become pregnant, tell your doctor in advance. While taking this medicine, use an effective form of birth control treatment so as to avoid pregnancy. It is not known if the drug passes into breast milk and could harm a nursing baby. Therefore, lactating women must consult their doctors before taking the medicine.

What do I do if I have missed a Micardis dose?

If you have missed your Micardis dose, you can take the missed dose as soon as you remember but do not take it if it is time for your next (scheduled) dose.

What do I do if I have taken a Micardis overdose?

If you have taken a Micardis overdose, you should seek medical attention. Overdose symptoms may include dizziness, slow or fast heartbeat, or feeling that you might lose consciousness.

Micardis interactions

Before taking Micardis, consult your doctor if you take digoxin (Lanoxin, digitalis), diuretics (water pills), cough and cold medications, diet aids, aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Tell your doctor about all prescription and non prescription drugs that you use including mineral or vitamin supplements that you may be using. Also, do not start taking any new medicine without consulting your doctor.

Micardis side effects

Micardis side effects include hives; breathing difficulty; swelling of face, tongue, lips, throat, hands or feet, and other allergic reactions.

Fever, nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, dark colored urine, weakness, tenderness, chest pain, pain or difficulty while urinating, shortness of breath (even with mild exertion), and feeling that you might lose consciousness are also side effects from Micardis. If you get any of these side effects after using Micardis, contact your doctor right away.

Stuffy or runny nose, back ache, sore throat, cough, diarrhea, stomach ache, headache, dizziness, increased sweating, or tired feeling are some less serious side effects of Micardis.