Brand Medication For Sale - Atacand
| Dosage / Strength | |
|---|---|
| 4 mg | See Prices |
| 8 mg | See Prices |
| 16 mg | See Prices |
| 32 mg | See Prices |
Generic Medication For Sale - Candesartan
| Dosage / Strength | |
|---|---|
| 4 mg | See Prices |
| 8 mg | See Prices |
| 16 mg | See Prices |
What is Atacand (Candesartan)?
Atacand, also known by its generic name candesartan, is a drug indicated for high blood pressure and heart failure. Being an angiotensin II receptor antagonist, it significantly reduces the risk of hospitalization and increases the survival rate in heart failure. Atacand is developed by AstraZeneca, a multinational biopharmaceutical company based in Cambridge, United Kingdom.
Active ingredients
Atacand is formulated with candesartan cilexetil, an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). Due to its high affinity for AT1 receptors, candesartan effectively inhibits the binding of angiotensin II to these receptors, thereby blocking vasoconstriction and the release of aldosterone. AT1 receptors, which are typically found in adrenal gland and vascular smooth muscle, are believed to play a role in the modulation of cardiovascular hemostasis.
What is this drug used for?
Atacand is indicated for the following conditions:
- Hypertension
- Heart failure (may be used in conjunction with other drugs)
Dosage
Each blister pack contains 30 tablets, which are pink in color. The recommended dosage for adults is as follows.
- For hypertension:
- Use 16mg once daily. Then increase the dose to 8 to 32mg once daily (or in 2 divided doses)
- For heart failure:
- Start with 4mg once daily. Double the dose every 2 weeks up to 32mg per day.
No dose adjustment is needed for mild hepatic and renal impairment.
For children of 6 to 17 years of age, use an initial dose of 8 to 16mg daily. Increase the dose to 4 to 32mg per day within 2 weeks. Do not exceed a daily dose of 32mg.
Do not increase the dose unless instructed by your doctor.
Side effects
- Fatigue;
- Lightheadedness;
- Dizziness.
This list of side effects may not be exhaustive.
Warnings and precautions
Contraindications
- With a hypersensitivity to candesartan or other inactive ingredients in the formulation;
- With severe hepatic impairment;
- Using aliskiren.
Precautions
- Tell the doctor that you are on Atacand before any new drug is prescribed.
- It is recommended to restrict your fluid intake if you are taking the drug for heart failure.
- Do not use the drug in pregnancy. Candesartan (Pregnancy Category D) may increases the risk of neonatal and fetal mortality. It may also cause anuria, renal failure, skull hypoplasia, hypotension in neonates. Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant (or plan to become pregnant) while taking Atacand.
- The safety and effectiveness of the drug has not been established in pediatrics. Avoid using Candesartan in children.
- Do not use the drug if you are allergic to candesartan, or any other ingredients in the drug. If you have allergies to other angiotensin II receptor antagonists, do not use this medication.
- If you have kidney problems or diabetes, do not use Atacand.
Drug interactions
- Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) e.g. eplerenone and spironolactone;
- Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors;
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs);
- Lithium;
- Diuretics;
- Potassium-containing medicines (e.g. salt substitutes).
Storage
Keep the drug in its original packaging. Keep the tablets at a cool, dry place of less than 30°C, Due to its moisture-sensitive nature, avoid keeping the drug near a sink or in the bathroom. Protect from heat. Keep out of reach of children.
What if I overdose?
If you take too much tablets, call a regional Poison Control Center immediately. Alternatively, go to the hospital to seek medical help. Do so even if there is no overt sign of poisoning.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose and it is at least 12 hours before you have to take the next dose, take Atacand as soon as you remember. However, if the next dose is impending, skip the missed dose and take the next dose as you normally would. Do not increase the dose to make up for the missed dose, as this may result in overdose.