Irbesartan and Hydrochlorothiazide: A Powerful Combination for Blood Pressure Control
Irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide are two medications that are used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). They belong to different classes of drugs, but they work together to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications such as stroke, heart attack, and kidney damage.
Irbesartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), which means it blocks the action of a hormone called angiotensin II that causes blood vessels to narrow and raise blood pressure. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic, which means it helps the body get rid of excess water and salt through urine. This reduces the volume of blood in the vessels and lowers blood pressure.
Irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide are available as a combination pill under the brand names Avalide and Coaprovel. They are also sold separately as generic drugs. The combination pill is usually prescribed when one drug alone is not enough to control blood pressure, or when a patient has other conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease that require both drugs.
The combination pill comes in different strengths, depending on the dose of each drug. The usual starting dose is 150 mg of irbesartan and 12.5 mg of hydrochlorothiazide once a day. The dose may be increased gradually by the doctor until the desired blood pressure level is reached. The maximum dose is 300 mg of irbesartan and 25 mg of hydrochlorothiazide once a day.
The combination pill should be taken with a glass of water, preferably at the same time each day. It can be taken with or without food, but it should not be taken with high-fat meals, as this may reduce its absorption and effectiveness. It is important to take the pill regularly and not miss any doses, as this may cause blood pressure to rise again.
Some common side effects of irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide are dizziness, headache, fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, cough, and muscle cramps. These are usually mild and temporary, and may go away as the body adjusts to the medication. However, some serious side effects may occur, such as allergic reactions, low blood pressure, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, kidney problems, liver problems, and eye problems. Patients should seek medical attention immediately if they experience any signs of these side effects, such as rash, swelling, difficulty breathing, fainting, confusion, irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness, dark urine, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or vision changes.
Irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide may interact with other medications, supplements, or herbal products that affect blood pressure or kidney function. Patients should inform their doctor about all the products they are taking before starting or changing the dose of the combination pill. Some examples of products that may interact with irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide are:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin
- Potassium-sparing diuretics such as spironolactone or triamterene
- Potassium supplements or salt substitutes
- Lithium
- Aliskiren
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors such as lisinopril or enalapril
- Angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitors (ARNIs) such as sacubitril/valsartan
- Alcohol
Patients should also avoid excessive exposure to sunlight or artificial UV rays while taking irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide, as this may increase the risk of sunburn or skin cancer. They should use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors.
Irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide are effective and safe medications for lowering blood pressure and preventing cardiovascular complications. However, they are not suitable for everyone. Patients should consult their doctor before taking them to make sure they are appropriate for their condition and medical history. They should also follow their doctor’s instructions carefully and monitor their blood pressure regularly.
Price Comparison of Irbesartan and Hydrochlorothiazide in Different Countries
| Country | Brand Name | Strength | Price per Pill (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | Avalide | 150/12.5 mg | 1.25 |
| India | Coaprovel | 150/12.5 mg | 0.29 |
| New Zealand | Avalide | 150/12.5 mg | 1.31 |
| Turkey | Coaprovel | 150/12.5 mg | 0.34 |
| UK | Avalide | 150/12.5 mg | 1.38 |
| USA | Avalide | 150/12.5 mg | 4.00 |
Top 5 Global Brands of Irbesartan and Hydrochlorothiazide
- Avalide: Manufactured by Sanofi-Aventis, marketed in Canada, New Zealand, UK, USA, and other countries.
- Coaprovel: Manufactured by Sanofi-Aventis, marketed in India, Turkey, and other countries.
- Karvezide: Manufactured by Bristol-Myers Squibb, marketed in Australia, Europe, and other countries.
- Aprovel: Manufactured by Sanofi-Aventis, marketed in France, Germany, and other countries.
- Irovel-H: Manufactured by Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, marketed in India and other countries.
Conclusion
Irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide are a powerful combination for blood pressure control that can reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications. They are available as a combination pill under different brand names and prices in different countries. Patients should consult their doctor before taking them and follow their instructions carefully.