Avapro (Irbesartan) is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Avapro belongs to a group of drugs called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. It works by relaxing blood vessels. This medication is sometimes combined with other blood pressure medications. Avapro is also used to treat kidney problems caused by type 2 diabetes. Angiotensin II is a chemical that the body releases to cause the constriction of blood vessels. Irbesartan blocks the action of this chemical, resulting in the relaxation of the blood vessels which causes the blood pressure to decrease. The usual starting dose of Irbesartan is 150mg daily at the same time each day with or without food.
Manufacturer Information
We currently have the brand Karvea from Turkey manufactured by Sanofi Winthrop and the generic from Canada. It is available in the strength of 75mg, 150mg and 300mg tablets.
Common side effects include:
• Anxiety or nervousness;
• Diarrhea;
• Feeling tired;
• Heartburn, upset stomach
Serious side effects include:
• Confusion, loss of appetite, vomiting, pain in your side or lower back;
• Dizziness, light-headedness, or fainting;
• Little or no urinating;
• Swelling of the feet, face, hands, lips or tongue
Do not take Avapro if you are allergic to any of the ingredients in this medication or losartan. Do not take Avapro if you become pregnant. If you have diabetes, do not use Avapro together with any medication that contains aliskiren (Amturnide, Tekturna, Tekamlo, Valturna). Avoid taking Avapro with aliskiren if you have kidney disease. It is unknown whether Irbesartan passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while using this medication.