APROVEL 150mg Tablets/Film-coated

What is APROVEL 150mg

APROVEL 150mg is a prescription medicine that belongs to the class of drugs known as angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). Its active substance is Irbesartan, used primarily for:

• Treating high blood pressure (essential hypertension)
• Protecting kidney function in patients with type 2 diabetes and hypertension (diabetic nephropathy)

By blocking the action of a natural substance (angiotensin II) that tightens blood vessels, APROVEL allows blood vessels to relax, thereby lowering blood pressure. This helps reduce the risk of strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. The 150mg dose is typically used as a starting or maintenance dose depending on your treatment plan.

The medicine comes in film-coated tablets, each box containing 28 tablets packed in two 14-tablet blisters. It's intended for long-term management of blood pressure and should be used consistently under medical supervision.

How to use APROVEL 150mg

To ensure the effectiveness of APROVEL 150mg and minimize risks, follow these usage instructions:

• Take one tablet once a day, with or without food.
• Swallow the tablet whole with water—do not chew or break it.
• Try to take the tablet at the same time each day to maintain even blood levels.
• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double the dose.
• Do not stop the medication abruptly without consulting your doctor, even if you feel better.

For best results, combine APROVEL with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and other medications if prescribed. Monitor your blood pressure regularly and attend follow-up appointments to adjust treatment if needed.

Mode of Action APROVEL 150mg

APROVEL 150mg works by blocking angiotensin II, a hormone that normally causes blood vessels to constrict. The mode of action includes:

• Blocking AT1 receptors: Irbesartan prevents angiotensin II from binding to its receptors on blood vessels, leading to relaxation and dilation.
• Reducing aldosterone secretion: This leads to decreased sodium and water retention, reducing blood volume and pressure.
• Lowering peripheral resistance: Improves blood flow and reduces the workload on the heart.
• Renal protection: Especially in diabetic patients, Irbesartan reduces proteinuria and helps preserve kidney function.

This mechanism makes APROVEL effective in managing blood pressure without significantly affecting heart rate or blood sugar levels, making it suitable for diabetic patients as well.

APROVEL 150mg Interactions APROVEL 150mg

APROVEL may interact with other medications, leading to reduced effectiveness or increased risk of side effects. Notable interactions include:

• Potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone): Risk of hyperkalemia.
• NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen): May reduce the blood pressure-lowering effect and harm kidney function.
• Other antihypertensives (e.g., ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers): Can increase the risk of low blood pressure or kidney issues.
• Diuretics: Enhance the antihypertensive effect but may cause dehydration or electrolyte imbalances.
• Lithium: Increased risk of lithium toxicity.

Always inform your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal medications you're taking before starting APROVEL.

Dosage of APROVEL 150mg

The dosage of APROVEL 150mg varies depending on the condition being treated and patient-specific factors such as age, kidney function, and concurrent medications.

• For Hypertension (High Blood Pressure):
  • Initial dose: 150 mg once daily
  • Maintenance dose: May be increased to 300 mg once daily if needed to achieve optimal blood pressure control
• For Diabetic Nephropathy (Kidney protection in type 2 diabetes):
  • Recommended dose: 300 mg once daily
• In Elderly Patients or Those on Diuretics:
  • Starting at a lower dose (e.g., 75 mg) may be considered to reduce the risk of hypotension, especially in volume-depleted patients

Always follow your doctor’s exact instructions regarding dosage and do not adjust the dose on your own. Regular monitoring of blood pressure and kidney function is advised during treatment.

Possible side effects of APROVEL 150mg

Like all medications, APROVEL can cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them. Most side effects are mild and temporary, but some may require medical attention.

• Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Headache
• Less common side effects:
  • Muscle cramps
  • Low blood pressure (hypotension)
  • Joint or back pain
• Serious side effects (rare but important):
  • High potassium levels in the blood (hyperkalemia), which may cause muscle weakness or irregular heartbeat
  • Kidney dysfunction or worsening kidney disease
  • Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling of the face/lips/tongue, or difficulty breathing)
  • Fainting or significant drop in blood pressure

If you notice any severe symptoms or allergic reactions, seek immediate medical attention. Always report any unusual or persistent side effects to your healthcare provider.

APROVEL 150mg Contraindications APROVEL 150mg

Do not use APROVEL if any of the following apply:

• Pregnancy: Especially after the first trimester, due to risk of birth defects or fetal death.
• Severe kidney or liver dysfunction, including patients on dialysis.
• Known allergy to Irbesartan or any excipients in the formulation.
• Combination with Aliskiren in patients with diabetes or impaired kidney function.
• Bilateral renal artery stenosis or stenosis in a single functioning kidney.

Always review your medical history and current conditions with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.

Storage of APROVEL 150mg

Proper storage ensures the safety and effectiveness of your medication. Follow these guidelines:

• Store below 30°C (86°F).
• Keep tablets in the original blister pack to protect from light and moisture.
• Do not store in humid places such as bathrooms.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not use after the expiration date printed on the package.

If the tablets appear discolored or damaged, do not use them and consult your pharmacist for replacement.