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Candesartan

Latest prescription information about Candesartan. Learn how to pronounce the drug’s name, its indications, dosage, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, its storage instructions and warnings if any when taken during pregnancy. Also listed are the International and Indian trade name(s) of the drug and its price list.
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Generic Name : Candesartan
Pronunciation : KAN-de-SAR-tan
Therapeutic Classification : angiotensin receptor blockers
Trade Name(s): 
India- Candelong Tab, Candelong-H Tab, Candesar Tab, Candesar-H Tab, Candestan Tab, Cantar Tab, Ipsita Tab.
International- Atacand.
Why it is prescribed (Indications) : 
This medication is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist, prescribed for high blood pressure. It blocks the action of certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly. High blood pressure reduction helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems.

When it is not to be taken (Contraindications): 


Hypersensitivity. Pregnancy (2nd and 3rd trimester) and lactation.

Pregnancy Category :

A B C D X
Category C : Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.


When it is to be taken : 
Oral- Hypertension- Adult: Initially, 8 mg once daily adjusted according to response. Maintenance: 8 mg once daily. Max: 32 mg daily.
Kidney impairment: For patients with renal impairment or on haemodialysis: Initially, 4 mg once daily.
Liver impairment- Initially, 2 mg once daily. Avoid in severe impairment.
Heart failure- Adult: Initially, 4 mg once daily, may double dose at intervals of not <2 wk. Max: 32 mg daily.
kidney impairment: Reduce dose or discontinue treatment if renal function deteriorates. Liver impairment: Initially, 2 mg once daily. Avoid in severe impairment.
How it should be taken : 
It comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once or twice a day with or without food.
Special Instruction : 
*It may cause a serious allergy. Contact your doctor at once if you develop swelling of the hands, face, lips, eyes throat, or tongue; difficulty swallowing or breathing; or hoarseness.
* Dehydration, excessive sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea may increase the risk of low blood pressure. Contact your health care provider.
* Monitor serum potassium levels especially in elderly and kidney patients.
* Low blood pressure may occur during major surgery and anesthesia due to suppression of the renin-angiotensin system.
* Caution should be exercised patients with a history of hives, heart, kidney, liver disease or diabetes.
Side Effects : 
Central Nervous System- Dizziness, headache, vertigo, depression, drowsiness.
Metabolic- Decreased hemoglobin, kidney impairment.
Liver- Jaundice.
Miscellaneous- Fever, back pain, upper respiratory tract infections, 1st dose orthostatic hypotension, rash.
Other Precautions : 
*Monitor blood pressure regularly.
Storage Conditions : 
Oral: Store at 15-30°C.Store it in airtight container and keep away from children.

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Member Comments ( 1 )
My husband has severe vertigo. No medical cause found. Has been on candestartan for 3 years could this be the cause of his vertigo?
This is a good medication for hypertension
but I think he should change medication

(Posted by suemorley, New Zealand Date : 9/14/2010 )

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