Micardis HCT

Micardis HCT has not been evaluated for use in children.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Micardis HCT

If Micardis HCT is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Micardis HCT with the following:

• Alcohol
• Barbiturates such as phenobarbital and secobarbital
• Cholestyramine
• Colestipol
• Digoxin
• Insulin
• Lithium
• Muscle relaxants such as tubocurarine
• Narcotic painkillers such as oxycodone
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen
• Norepinephrine
• Oral diabetes drugs such as chlorpropamide, glipizide, or glyburide
• Other blood-pressure lowering drugs
• Steroid medications such as prednisone

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Micardis HCT can cause injury or even death to an unborn child when used during the last 6 months of pregnancy. As soon as you learn that you are pregnant, stop taking Micardis HCT and call your doctor. Micardis HCT appears in breast milk and can affect a nursing infant. You'll need to choose between breastfeeding or using Micardis HCT.

Recommended dosage for Micardis HCT

ADULTS

Micardis HCT is available in tablets containing either 40 or 80 milligrams of telmisartan and 12.5 or 25 milligrams of hydrochlorothiazide. The usual starting dose is one 40/12.5 tablet per day. If your blood pressure does not respond to this dose, after 2 to 4 weeks your doctor may increase your dose up to a maximum of two 80/12.5 tablets once daily. If the diuretic (hydrochlorothiazide) in Micardis HCT causes hypokalemia (see "Special warnings about this medication"), your doctor may switch you to a once-daily dosage that contains a lower dose of the diuretic.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical help immediately.

• Symptoms of Micardis HCT overdose may include:
  Dizziness, dry mouth, excessive thirst, irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure, muscle pain or cramps, nausea, rapid or slow heartbeat, vomiting, weakness