osudhkosh

Generic

Azilsartan Medoxomil

13 brands available in the market

At a glance

Azilsartan Medoxomil is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) used for the treatment of hypertension and heart failure. It helps prevent future heart attack and stroke by relaxing blood vessels and lowering blood pressure.

Description

Azilsartan Medoxomil is an angiotensin II receptor blocker that selectively blocks the AT1 receptor. It lowers blood pressure by reducing angiotensin II-induced vasoconstriction, aldosterone release, and sympathetic nervous system activation. It may induce more complete inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system compared with ACE inhibitors and does not affect the response to bradykinin, resulting in a lower risk of dry cough.

Common side effects include dizziness, diarrhea, and muscle damage. Do not use during pregnancy (Category D).

Indications
  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • Heart failure
  • Prevention of heart attack and stroke
Therapeutic class

Angiotensin II receptor blockers

Pharmacological class

Angiotensin Receptor Blocker (ARB)

Pharmacology

Azilsartan Medoxomil is an angiotensin II receptor blocker that selectively blocks the AT1 receptor. It reduces blood pressure by decreasing angiotensin II-induced vasoconstriction, aldosterone secretion, and sympathetic nervous system activation.

Azilsartan may induce more complete inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system compared with ACE inhibitors and does not affect the response to bradykinin, resulting in a lower risk of dry cough.

Mechanism of action

Azilsartan Medoxomil blocks the AT1 receptor, preventing angiotensin II-induced vasoconstriction. This causes vasodilation, reduced peripheral resistance, and decreased blood pressure. It also reduces aldosterone secretion, which decreases sodium and water retention, further lowering blood pressure.

Dosage

Initial dose: 40 mg once daily.

Maximum dose: May be increased to 80 mg once daily as needed.

Elderly: No dose adjustment needed.

Renal impairment: No dose adjustment needed for mild to severe renal impairment or ESRD. Moderate-severe renal impairment may show increased serum creatinine.

Hepatic impairment: No dose adjustment needed for mild-moderate liver disease. Caution in severe liver disease.

Administration

Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow the tablet whole; do not chew, crush, or break. May be taken with or without food, but take at a fixed time.

Missed dose

If you miss a dose, skip it and continue with your normal schedule. Do not double the dose.

Side effects
  • Dizziness
  • Muscle damage
  • Diarrhea
  • Hyperkalemia (increased potassium)
Precautions & warnings
  • Do not use during pregnancy (fetal risk)
  • May cause dizziness for the first few days; rise slowly from sitting or lying position
  • Regular blood tests to monitor urea, creatinine, and potassium levels
  • Do not use with anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen) without consulting your doctor
  • Caution when driving or operating machinery
Contraindications
  • Hypersensitivity to Azilsartan Medoxomil or any component
  • Pregnancy
Drug interactions
  • Lithium: Azilsartan may increase serum lithium concentration and toxicity
  • NSAIDs: May attenuate antihypertensive effects and worsen renal function
  • Potassium-sparing diuretics and potassium supplements: Increase risk of hyperkalemia
Food interactions

[UNSAFE] Alcohol with Azilsartan Medoxomil may cause excessive drowsiness. Avoid alcohol.

Use in pregnancy

[CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR] Azilsartan Medoxomil is unsafe during pregnancy (Category D). There is definite evidence of risk to the developing baby. May be prescribed in life-threatening situations if benefits outweigh risks.

Pregnancy Category: D — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.

Use in lactation

[SAFE IF PRESCRIBED] Azilsartan Medoxomil is probably safe during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests the drug does not represent any significant risk to the baby.

Pediatric use

Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients have not been established.

Geriatric use

No dose adjustment needed for elderly patients.

Renal / hepatic impairment

Renal Impairment: No dose adjustment needed for mild to severe renal impairment or ESRD. However, moderate-severe renal impairment may show increased serum creatinine; regular monitoring of kidney function is recommended.

Hepatic Impairment: Caution in severe liver disease. No dose adjustment needed for mild-moderate liver disease.

Overdose effects

Overdose may cause hypotension, dizziness, and electrolyte imbalance. Symptomatic and supportive treatment is recommended. Hemodialysis is not effective in removing azilsartan (protein-bound).

Storage conditions

Store below 30°C, in a cool and dry place, protected from light. Keep out of reach of children.

Chemical structure

Azilsartan Medoxomil (C₂₅H₂₀N₄O₅)

Common questions

What is Azilsartan Medoxomil?
Azilsartan Medoxomil is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) used for hypertension and heart failure.
What is the dosage?
Initial dose is 40 mg once daily, may increase to 80 mg as needed.
What are the side effects?
Dizziness, diarrhea, muscle damage, and increased potassium levels may occur.
Is it safe during pregnancy?
No, it is unsafe during pregnancy (Category D). Do not use without consulting your doctor.
How should it be taken?
Take once daily with or without food at a fixed time. Swallow the tablet whole.
⚠️ This information is for educational purposes only — not a substitute for medical advice. Consult a registered physician before taking any medicine.