৳ 6/unit
Pack: ৳ 6
৳ 6/unit
Pack: ৳ 6
At a glance
Candesartan Cilexetil is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) used in the treatment of hypertension and heart failure. It blocks angiotensin II AT1 receptors, dilating blood vessels and lowering blood pressure, which helps prevent heart attack and stroke.
Indications
- Hypertension
- Heart failure (with impaired left ventricular systolic function)
- Prevention of diabetic nephropathy
Pharmacology
Candesartan Cilexetil is a prodrug that is converted to active Candesartan after absorption. Candesartan acts as an AT1 receptor antagonist, blocking the vasoconstrictive and aldosterone-secreting effects of angiotensin II. It reduces peripheral vascular resistance to lower blood pressure and improves heart failure symptoms by reducing preload and afterload.
Dosage
Hypertension: Initially 8 mg once daily (2 mg for hepatic impairment, 4 mg for renal impairment or intravascular volume depletion). May increase every 4 weeks to max 32 mg/day. Usual maintenance dose: 8 mg once daily.
Heart failure: Initially 4 mg once daily; increase at intervals of at least 2 weeks to target dose of 32 mg once daily or max tolerated dose.
Children (1-6 years, <50 kg): 4-16 mg/day; adjust to 4-32 mg/day as needed.
Children (6-17 years): 8-16 mg/day; adjust to 4-32 mg/day as needed.
Hepatic impairment: Mild-moderate: Initially 4 mg/day; Severe: Contraindicated.
Renal impairment: Mild: No dose adjustment; Moderate: Initiate at lower dose.
Side effects
Common side effects: Dizziness (especially with intravascular volume depletion), back pain, upper respiratory tract infection, sore throat, nasal congestion, vertigo, headache.
Uncommon: Hyperkalemia (occasionally), angioedema (rare), hepatitis, blood disorders, hyponatremia, arthralgia, myalgia, rash, urticaria, pruritus.
Side effects are usually mild.
Use in pregnancy
Unsafe during pregnancy (Category D). Definite evidence of risk to the developing baby (2nd and 3rd trimester). Discontinue as soon as pregnancy is detected. May be used in life-threatening situations if benefits outweigh risks.
Pregnancy Category: D — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Precautions & warnings
- Caution in renal artery stenosis, aortic or mitral valve stenosis, and obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
- Monitor plasma-potassium concentration, especially in elderly and patients with renal impairment; lower initial doses may be appropriate.
- May cause dizziness for the first few days; rise slowly from sitting or lying position.
- Do not use during pregnancy (2nd and 3rd trimester) due to fetal harm.
- Do not stop suddenly (may cause rebound hypertension).
- Avoid anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen without consulting your doctor.
Overdose effects
Overdose symptoms: Severe hypotension, dizziness, tachycardia, hyperkalemia, renal failure. Treatment: Gastric lavage, IV fluids, vasopressors, electrolyte monitoring. Hemodialysis is not effective. Consult your doctor immediately if overdose is suspected.
Storage conditions
Store in a cool and dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.