Micardis Coupons & Savings Card – Discount Prices from $8.19

The following information highlights crucial safety details and warnings associated with the use of telmisartan (Micardis). It is important to carefully consider these points and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

• Risk to Unborn Child: Use of telmisartan during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy can increase the likelihood of birth defects, including potential kidney issues, which may sometimes be life-threatening to the unborn child. If you discover you are pregnant while taking this medication, discontinue use immediately and contact your healthcare provider. Discuss alternative treatment options with your care team if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

• Low Blood Pressure: Telmisartan may lead to a significant drop in blood pressure, which can cause symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, or lightheadedness. This risk is heightened during the first two weeks of treatment or after a dosage increase. To mitigate these effects, stay hydrated and avoid sudden movements from a sitting or lying position. If you regularly experience symptoms like dizziness, lightheadedness, fatigue, or confusion, consult your healthcare provider. Risks are higher with dehydration, low salt levels, dialysis, or concurrent use of diuretics.

• Kidney Issues: While telmisartan can enhance kidney blood flow, it might exacerbate kidney problems in certain individuals, especially those with kidney artery blockages or severe heart failure. Your healthcare provider may conduct lab tests to monitor kidney function during treatment. Report symptoms such as decreased urination, fatigue, nausea, or chills to your provider, as these may indicate kidney damage.

• Elevated Potassium Levels: In rare instances, telmisartan can increase potassium levels in the body, posing health risks. The likelihood is greater for individuals with diabetes, kidney issues, or those taking medications that also elevate potassium. Inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history and any medications you are taking before starting telmisartan. Report symptoms like nausea, muscle weakness, or irregular heartbeat to your provider immediately.

• Liver Concerns: Individuals with a history of liver problems, such as a blocked bile duct, may experience higher levels of telmisartan in their system, increasing the risk of side effects like low blood pressure and kidney issues. Notify your healthcare team of any liver conditions, as a lower starting dose may be necessary.

Contraindications: This medication should not be taken in conjunction with aliskiren (Tekturna) if you have diabetes, due to potential serious health risks. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting telmisartan under these circumstances.

When taking Micardis (telmisartan), it's important to be aware of potential interactions with other medications and substances:

• Aliskiren: Avoid combining Micardis with aliskiren, especially in patients with diabetes or those with impaired kidney function (GFR <60 mL/min), as this combination can increase the risk of kidney problems, high potassium levels, and low blood pressure.

• Digoxin: Micardis can raise digoxin levels in the blood, potentially leading to toxicity. Monitor digoxin levels when starting, adjusting, or stopping Micardis to ensure they remain within a safe range.

• Lithium: Using Micardis with lithium may increase lithium levels, heightening the risk of toxicity. Regular monitoring of lithium levels is recommended during concurrent use.

• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Combining NSAIDs (like Ibuprofen or Naproxen) with Micardis can reduce its blood pressure-lowering effect and may impair kidney function, especially in older adults, those who are dehydrated, or individuals with existing kidney issues. Monitor kidney function periodically if using these medications together.

• Potassium Supplements and Potassium-Sparing Diuretics: Micardis can increase potassium levels in the blood. Using it alongside potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics (such as Spironolactone) may lead to dangerously high potassium levels. Regular monitoring of potassium levels is advised when these are used together.

• Other Antihypertensive Agents: Combining Micardis with other blood pressure medications can enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect, which may lead to low blood pressure. Close monitoring is necessary when using multiple antihypertensive drugs.

• Dual Blockade of the Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS): Using Micardis with other RAS inhibitors, such as ACE inhibitors or aliskiren, is generally not recommended due to an increased risk of low blood pressure, high potassium levels, and kidney problems. This combination should be avoided unless specifically prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and over-the-counter drugs you are taking to avoid potential interactions.