Brand Names: Avapro

Generic Name: irbesartan (Pronunciation: ir be SAR tan)

• What is irbesartan (Avapro)?
• What are the possible side effects of irbesartan (Avapro)?
• What is the most important information I should know about irbesartan (Avapro)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking irbesartan (Avapro)?
• How should I take irbesartan (Avapro)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Avapro)?
• What happens if I overdose (Avapro)?
• What should I avoid while taking irbesartan (Avapro)?
• What other drugs will affect irbesartan (Avapro)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is irbesartan (Avapro)?

Irbesartan is in a group of drugs called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. Irbesartan keeps blood vessels from narrowing, which lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow.

Irbesartan is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is sometimes given together with other blood pressure medications.

Irbesartan is also used to treat kidney problems caused by type 2 (not insulin-dependent) diabetes.

Irbesartan may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Avapro 150 mg

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Avapro 300 mg

oval, white, imprinted with 2773, HEART

Avapro 75 mg

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What are the possible side effects of irbesartan (Avapro)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

In rare cases, irbesartan can cause a condition that results in the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, leading to kidney failure. Call your doctor right away if you have unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness especially if you also have fever, unusual tiredness, and dark colored urine.

Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:

• feeling like you might pass out;
• urinating less than usual or not at all;
• drowsiness, confusion, mood changes, increased thirst, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting; or
• swelling, weight gain, feeling short of breath.

Less serious side effects may include:

• diarrhea;
• heartburn, upset stomach;
• mild dizziness; or
• tired feeling.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Read the Avapro (irbesartan) Side Effects Center for a complete guide to possible side effects »

What is the most important information I should know about irbesartan (Avapro)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to irbesartan.

Before you take irbesartan, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease, congestive heart failure, or if you are dehydrated.

Drinking alcohol can further lower your blood pressure and may increase certain side effects of irbesartan.

Do not use potassium supplements or salt substitutes while you are taking irbesartan, unless your doctor has told you to.

Your blood pressure will need to be checked often. Visit your doctor regularly.

If you are being treated for high blood pressure, keep using this medication even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms.

In rare cases, irbesartan can cause a condition that results in the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, leading to kidney failure. Call your doctor right away if you have unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness especially if you also have fever, unusual tiredness, and dark colored urine.