Candesartan is used on its own or together with other medicines to help keep your blood pressure under control.
This medicine may also be used to treat heart failure (weakness and inability of the heart to pump blood).
Take Candesartan exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
You may take this medicine with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.
Candesartan must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have severe liver disease and/or cholestasis (a condition where there is a blockage in the flow of bile) as Candesartan may not be suitable for you.
Do not take this medicine if you are pregnant or planning to have a baby soon. If you become pregnant while being treated with this medicine, alert your doctor immediately. Candesartan may cause harm to your unborn child. You must use proven birth control methods while taking this medicine.
Do not take Candesartan with other medicines used to treat high blood pressure if you have diabetes and severe kidney disease. Please see the section “Can I take this with other medicines?” below for more information.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- other heart diseases such as narrowing of the heart valves
- liver disease
- kidney disease
- primary hyperaldosteronism (disorder of the adrenal glands)
Let your doctor know if you are breastfeeding.
It is not advisable to give this medicine to infants below one year of age.
If you are going to have an operation, including minor surgery and dental work, inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking this medicine.
If you are of a Black race, Candesartan may be less effective. Inform your doctor if you are taking this medicine.
Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
- Routine tests (e.g. kidney function, electrolyte levels) may be done while you are being treated with this medicine.
- Your blood pressure may fall to unsafe levels without you noticing it. Monitor your blood pressure regularly during treatment.
Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
What lifestyle changes can I make to improve my blood pressure?
Regular exercise and eating a healthy diet will help control your blood pressure and improve your overall health. Engage in physical activity like walking for at least 30 to 60 minutes on most days of the week. If you have not exercised for a long time, start with light exercises such as slow walks. Speak to your doctor about what type of exercise would be suitable for you. Follow a healthy diet plan by eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products and reduce your intake of foods high in saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium. Cutting down on deep-fried foods and using less salt when cooking can kick-start your healthy diet.
If you smoke, you should try to quit. Smoking is harmful to your blood pressure, heart and overall health. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist about ways to stop your smoking habit.
Candesartan may cause any of the following side effects: headache, back pain, nausea, cough, sneezing, blocked or runny nose and rashes.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- yellowing of the skin or eyes, abdominal pain, dark coloured urine, tiredness, swelling in the legs and ankles
- muscle weakness, cramping or numbness; fast or irregular heartbeat
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Do not take Candesartan together with aliskiren (medicines used to treat high blood pressure) especially if you have diabetes or kidney disease.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- water pills e.g. spironolactone, eplerenone
- potassium supplements (either as a medicine or as a salt substitute)
- medicines for pain and inflammation e.g. diclofenac, mefenamic acid, ibuprofen, celecoxib
- heparin (blood-thinning medicine)
- lithium (medicine for depression)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with this medicine.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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