Telmisartan

About Telmisartan

This belongs to the group of medicines known as angiotensin II receptor antagonists.

Telmisartan is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). It works by causing blood vessels to relax, which in turn lowers blood pressure.

Telmisartan is available in tablet form.

It is also sometimes known as: Micardis. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before Taking Telmisartan

Before taking any of this medicine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from liver or kidney problems
• if you suffer from heart valve or other heart problems
• if you suffer from Conn's syndrome or aldosteronism
• if you suffer from stomach ulcers or any disease of the bowel
• if you suffer from gall bladder problems
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription

How to Take Telmisartan

• Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor. You will need to have regular blood pressure tests to ensure the dose you are taking is right for you.
• Do not stop taking this medicine without checking with your doctor first.
• Try to take this medicine at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of Telmisartan contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others, even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Occasionally, dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting may occur. Make sure that you know how you react to this medicine before you drive, use machinery or do other jobs that could be dangerous if you were not fully alert.
• Alcohol can also affect your blood pressure. You should try to avoid alcohol whilst taking this medicine, or if you do drink alcohol, drink only a little and be aware of its effects on you.

Can Telmisartan 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. If any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

Stomach pains, diarrhoea, constipation, vomiting, indigestion, excess wind, chest pain, cramp in legs, back pain, muscle pain, joint pain, tendon pain, dizziness, problems with eyesight, tiredness, flu-like symptoms, symptoms of infection such as cystitis, sore throat, sinus pain, vertigo, anxiety, dry mouth, sweating, slow or fast pulse, problems sleeping, mood changes or skin reddening or itching.

If you experience any other worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store Telmisartan

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Do not keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 10/05/2005