Avalide

Pronounced: AV-a-lide
Generic name: Irbesartan, Hydrochlorothiazide

Why is Avalide prescribed?

Avalide is a combination medication used to treat high blood pressure. One component, irbesartan, belongs to a class of blood pressure medications that prevents the hormone angiotensin II from constricting the blood vessels, thereby allowing blood to flow more freely and keeping blood pressure down. The other component, hydrochlorothiazide, is a diuretic that increases the output of urine, removing excess fluid from the body and thus lowering blood pressure.

Combinations such as Avalide are usually prescribed only when treatment with a single medication fails to lower blood pressure sufficiently. Avalide can be combined with yet other blood pressure medicines if your pressure remains too high.

Most important fact about Avalide

If you have high blood pressure, you must take Avalide regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Avalide and you must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Avalide does not cure high blood pressure, it merely keeps it under control.

How should you take Avalide?

Avalide can be taken with or without food.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

--Storage instructions...

Store Avalide at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

Avalide is unlikely to produce side effects, and if any do occur they are usually mild and temporary. Nevertheless, be sure to report all side effects to your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Avalide.

• More common side effects may include:
  Dizziness, fatigue, influenza, muscle and bone pain, nausea, swelling due to water retention, vomiting

Why should Avalide not be prescribed?

If Avalide gives you an allergic reaction, you'll be unable to use it. You should also avoid it if you have an allergy to sulfa drugs, and if you're unable to urinate.