What is this medication for?
This is a combination product that contains 2 medications (irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide) used to treat high blood pressure.
Irbesartan belongs to a family of medications called angiotensin II receptor blockers and helps to lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels.
Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic or "water pill" that helps control blood pressure by getting rid of excess salt and water. The full effects of this medication are usually seen within 2 to 4 weeks.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Avalide® is available as:
- tablets
- 12.5 mg of hydrochlorothiazide per 150 mg of irbesartan
- 12.5 mg of hydrochlorothiazide per 300 mg of irbesartan
- 25 mg of hydrochlorothiazide per 300 mg of irbesartan
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The usual recommended starting dose of irbesartan - hydrochlorothiazide is one 150 mg/12.5 mg tablet once daily. Tablets should be taken at approximately the same time each day, with or without food (but taken in the same manner each day). Depending on your blood pressure, your doctor may increase your dose to a tablet that contains higher doses of irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide to be taken once daily.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
It is important to take this medication regularly and to follow your doctor's instructions regarding monitoring blood pressure to ensure that you receive the maximum benefit from the medication.
Store this medication at room temperature and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Do not take this medication if you:
- are allergic to irbesartan, hydrochlorothiazide, or any ingredients of this medication
- are allergic to sulfa (e.g., sulfonamides) medications
- have anuria (inability to urinate)