General Information on Micardis HCT
Micardis HCT is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is a combination of two medications, Micardis and hydrochlorothiazide. Both medications work differently to lower the blood pressure.
Micardis, one of the main active ingredients in the drug belongs to a group of medicines known as angiotensin II receptor blockers. It works to block the action of angiotensin II, a chemical known to cause constriction of blood vessels. This causes the blood vessels to relax which allows the blood to flow more freely.
Hydrochlorothiazide, one of the active ingredients in the medication, increases the removal of water and salt from the body through kidneys. This leads to decrease in the amount of blood volume, thus decreasing the blood pressure.
Micardis HCT is available in the form of a tablet. It is available in three strengths, each type containing different amount of Micardis and Hydrochlorothiazide, Micardis HCT 40 mg/12.5 mg, Micardis HCT 80 mg/12.5 mg and Micardis HCT 80 mg/25 mg. The drug is a prescription medication, so consult your doctor before you buy Micardis HCT. It will help you decrease the risk of side effects and prevent health complications.
Side effects of Micardis HCT
All medicines have side effects. Tiredness, diarrhea, nausea, dizziness are some common side effects associated with the drug. These side effects wane with time as your body gets used to the drug. However, if they persist or become bothersome, consult your doctor immediately.
Micardis HCT may also cause severe side effects in some people. Pain or difficulty in urinating, eye pain, chest pain, depression, decrease in sexual ability, fever, persistent sore throat, irregular or fast heartbeat, eye pain , confusion, persistent or severe nausea, unusual bleeding or bruising, weakness or tiredness, muscle pain are some severe side effects associated with the drug.
You may also experience severe side effects such as drowsiness, tenderness or cramps, peeling or blistering of the skin, seizures, unusual thirst, swelling of the legs or arms, vision changes, yellowing of the eyes or skin, shortness of breath. This is not a complete list of severe side effects. Consult your doctor immediately if you notice or experience any severe side effects after taking a dose of Micardis HCT.
Dosage of Micardis HCT
Your doctor will give specific instructions regarding the dosage. The recommended starting Micardis HCT dose to treat hypertension is one tablet of Micardis HCT 40 mg/12.5 mg, daily. Your doctor may increase or decrease the dosage after analyzing the effects of the medication and side effects.
Take the tablet with a glass of water. Micardis HCT tablet can be taken with or without food. Take the medication at same time everyday to maintain even levels of medication in your blood.
Interactions
Micardis HCT may interact with other medicines you are using and cause side effects. It may interact with medicines such as Diuretics, Digoxin, Warfarin, oral diabetes medication, Lithium, Potassium-sparing diuretics, Barbiturates, Cholestyramine, Norepinephrine, Corticosteroids, muscle relaxants, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The drug may also interact with alcohol, Potassium supplements, or salt substitutes with Potassium.
To reduce the risk of side effects due to drug interactions, tell doctor about every medicine you are using before you buy Micardis HCT. Tell him/her about prescription medications, over the counter drugs and herbal supplements you are using.
