Before taking angiotensin II antagonists with diuretics

Before taking these tablets make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have gall-bladder, liver or kidney problems.
• If you suffer from renal artery stenosis (a narrowing or blockage of the artery supplying the kidney).
• If you have problems with your heart valves or heart muscle.
• If you have diabetes.
• If you suffer from gout or hyperuricaemia (high blood uric acid).
• If you have systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
• If you have Addison's disease or another adrenal gland disorder.
• If you have been told you have low levels of potassium or sodium in your blood, or high levels of calcium.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take angiotensin II antagonists with diuretics

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take these tablets exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Try to take your dose at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses.
• If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember but do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored. You will require blood tests to check your kidney function and your doctor will also measure your blood pressure.
• Many patients with high blood pressure do not feel unwell but, left untreated, high blood pressure can harm the heart and damage blood vessels, resulting in a heart attack, stroke, heart failure or kidney failure. Do not stop taking these tablets without speaking to your doctor first.
• Diuretics like the hydrochlorothiazide in these tablets help you to lose water. On occasions you may lose too much and become dehydrated, leaving you feeling thirsty, your mouth dry, and your skin looking and feeling dry. Let your doctor know if this happens.
• It is important to follow any dietary advice that you have been given by your doctor or nurse.
• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.

Can angiotensin II antagonists with diuretics cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store angiotensin II antagonists with diuretics

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines

References

• British National Formulary; 58th Edition (September 2009) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London.