Generic Azilsartan (Azilsartan)

Introduction

Azilsartan is a medication used to manage high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults. It belongs to a class of drugs known as angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). Available as a pill, typically in a 40/12.5mg dosage, it works by widening blood vessels, thereby reducing the pressure within them. This action helps to prevent serious cardiovascular events such as stroke and heart attack.

Quick Reference Facts

Active Ingredient

Azilsartan

Form

Pill (40/12.5mg)

Primary and Off-Label Uses

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

What is Azilsartan?

Azilsartan is the generic version of medications containing the active compound azilsartan medoxomil. It is classified therapeutically as an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). ARBs are a well-established class of medications specifically designed to target the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), a critical hormonal pathway involved in regulating blood pressure and fluid balance. Azilsartan is primarily prescribed for the treatment of essential hypertension when monotherapy with other agents is insufficient. Generic versions of medications containing azilsartan medoxomil, such as Azilsartan, are often marketed under brand names like Edarbi. The generic equivalent of Edarbi when taken alone offers a comparable therapeutic option to the branded product, typically at a more affordable price point.

How Azilsartan Works

Azilsartan functions by selectively inhibiting the binding of angiotensin II to its specific receptor, the AT1 receptor. Angiotensin II is a potent vasoconstrictor, meaning it narrows blood vessels. It also stimulates the release of aldosterone, a hormone that promotes sodium and water retention, further increasing blood pressure. By blocking angiotensin II from attaching to the AT1 receptor, azilsartan prevents these effects. The result is vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) and reduced aldosterone secretion. This dual mechanism leads to a significant lowering of blood pressure. The effect of azilsartan is dose-dependent, meaning higher doses generally produce greater reductions in blood pressure. Its action begins within hours of administration and its peak effect is typically observed within a few weeks of consistent use.

Conditions Treated with Azilsartan

Azilsartan is approved for the treatment of hypertension.

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Essential hypertension is a chronic condition characterised by persistently elevated blood pressure in the arteries. Uncontrolled hypertension places excessive strain on the cardiovascular system and increases the risk of severe health problems. Azilsartan effectively reduces blood pressure by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a hormone that constricts blood vessels, and by reducing aldosterone release, which promotes water and salt retention. This leads to a relaxation and widening of blood vessels, thereby lowering systemic blood pressure and reducing the workload on the heart. It is particularly useful for patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled by other antihypertensive medications.

Is Azilsartan the Right Medication for You?

Azilsartan is generally suitable for adult patients diagnosed with essential hypertension who require effective blood pressure management. It is often considered when other standard antihypertensive treatments, such as ACE inhibitors or calcium channel blockers, have not achieved the desired blood pressure targets or have caused unacceptable side effects.

Patients who may find azilsartan particularly beneficial include those with moderate to severe hypertension, or those who need a potent medication to lower their readings significantly. Its mechanism of action, distinct from some other drug classes, can offer an alternative for individuals who have experienced side effects or lack of efficacy with other treatments.

However, azilsartan is not appropriate for everyone. It is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to azilsartan or any of its components. Individuals with severe hepatic impairment or biliary obstruction should also avoid this medication. Furthermore, while ARBs are often considered an alternative to ACE inhibitors in patients with a history of cough, caution is still advised for those with pre-existing renal artery stenosis or severe heart failure, and its use in pregnancy is generally avoided due to potential harm to the foetus. A healthcare professional will best determine if azilsartan is the most suitable option based on an individual's medical history and overall health assessment.

Buying Azilsartan from Our Online Pharmacy

Our online pharmacy provides a convenient and accessible way to obtain Azilsartan, offering a valuable solution for individuals seeking effective hypertension management. We understand that access to necessary medications can sometimes be challenging, and our service is designed to bridge those gaps by providing reliable access to high-quality Azilsartan.

Why Choose Our Service?

We aim to simplify the process of acquiring your prescribed medications, ensuring you can manage your health without undue stress. Our platform prioritises patient well-being by offering a trusted channel for obtaining essential treatments like Azilsartan, making healthcare more manageable and less burdensome for our customers.

Quality & Safety Assurance

We partner with licensed international pharmacies to ensure quality and authenticity. All medications procured through our service are sourced from reputable suppliers who adhere to stringent international regulatory standards for pharmaceutical manufacturing and distribution, guaranteeing that you receive genuine and safe Azilsartan.

Pricing & Access

Azilsartan, as a generic medication, offers a cost-effective treatment for hypertension. Our aim is to provide this essential medicine at competitive prices, making it more accessible for patients who may find it expensive through other channels. By offering this generic alternative, we help reduce the financial burden of long-term medication management, enabling more people to maintain their treatment regimens consistently.

Discreet Delivery

We recognise the importance of privacy and discretion in healthcare. Your order of Azilsartan will be packaged discreetly, with no outward indications of its contents, ensuring your privacy is maintained throughout the delivery process. We offer reliable shipping options to your doorstep, with express delivery typically within 7 days or standard airmail in approximately 3 weeks.

Use: Dosing, Missed Dose, Overdose

Azilsartan is typically initiated at a dose of 40mg once daily. For patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled with 40mg once daily, the dose may be increased to a maximum of 80mg once daily. The fixed-dose combination of azilsartan medoxomil and chlorthalidone (a diuretic) is also available, with common starting doses such as 40/12.5mg once daily.

If you miss a dose of Azilsartan, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled 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.

In case of an overdose, contact your doctor or seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an overdose may include excessively low blood pressure (hypotension), dizziness, or light-headedness. If you suspect an overdose, it is important to receive prompt medical evaluation.

Azilsartan can be taken with or without food. It is generally advisable to avoid excessive consumption of alcohol while taking this medication, as it may further lower blood pressure and increase the risk of dizziness. Patients should exercise caution when operating machinery or driving until they are aware of how Azilsartan affects them.

Safety Information

⚠️ Who Should Not Take Azilsartan

Azilsartan is contraindicated in individuals with a known hypersensitivity to azilsartan medoxomil or any of its inactive ingredients. Patients with hereditary fructose intolerance, glucose-galactose malabsorption, or sucrase-isomaltase insufficiency should not take the fixed-dose combination formulation containing chlorthalidone, as it contains lactose. It is also generally not recommended for use during pregnancy, as it may cause foetal injury or death.

Common Side Effects

The most frequently reported side effects associated with Azilsartan therapy include dizziness, light-headedness, diarrhoea, and upper respiratory tract infections. These effects are typically mild and transient, often resolving on their own as the body adjusts to the medication. If these symptoms persist or become bothersome, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider.

Serious Side Effects (Seek Immediate Medical Help)

Although rare, serious side effects can occur. These include signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these. Other serious effects may include significant hypotension (very low blood pressure), especially in individuals who are volume-depleted or on diuretics, potentially leading to kidney problems. Symptoms of hyperkalemia (high potassium levels), such as muscle weakness, slow or irregular heartbeat, or fainting, are also possible.

Drug & Food Interactions

• Diuretics: Concurrent use of Azilsartan with potent diuretics may increase the risk of hypotension and acute kidney injury.
• Potassium Supplements and Potassium-Sparing Diuretics: Azilsartan can increase serum potassium levels. Concomitant use with potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics may lead to significant hyperkalemia.
• Lithium: Angiotensin II receptor blockers, including Azilsartan, can increase the serum concentration and toxicity of lithium. Lithium levels should be monitored closely.
• Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): In patients who are elderly, volume-depleted, or have compromised renal function, concomitant administration of NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen or naproxen) with ARBs may result in worsening of renal function, including acute renal failure.
• Aliskiren: Co-administration of Azilsartan with aliskiren, another medication that affects the RAAS, is not recommended as it increases the risk of hypotension, hyperkalemia, and renal dysfunction.

Off-Label and Investigational Uses of Azilsartan

While Azilsartan is primarily indicated for the treatment of hypertension, clinical studies and some emerging research suggest potential benefits in other areas, although these uses are not officially approved by regulatory bodies.

• Cardiorenal Protection in Proteinuric Kidney Disease: Some research has investigated the role of Azilsartan in reducing proteinuria (protein in the urine), a marker of kidney damage, in patients with chronic kidney disease. By effectively blocking angiotensin II signalling, it may help to reduce intraglomerular pressure and protect the kidneys from further damage, potentially slowing disease progression in select individuals.
• Heart Failure Management: Although specific approvals for heart failure are typically associated with other ARBs or specific classes of heart failure medications, the vasodilatory and blood pressure-lowering effects of Azilsartan suggest a potential role in managing certain aspects of heart failure. However, its efficacy and safety in this context require further robust clinical investigation and are not considered standard therapy without specific regulatory endorsement.

It is crucial to understand that any use of Azilsartan for these purposes would be considered off-label. Such treatments should only be considered under the direct supervision of a qualified healthcare provider who can carefully weigh the potential benefits against the risks, as the long-term efficacy and safety profile for these indications have not been as extensively established as for hypertension.

Storage & Handling

Azilsartan pills should be stored at room temperature, typically between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). They should be protected from excessive heat, cold, and moisture. Keep the medication in its original, tightly closed container to prevent degradation and light exposure. Do not store in the bathroom or near a sink. After the expiry date printed on the packaging, the medication should no longer be used. Dispose of any unused or expired Azilsartan safely by returning it to a pharmacy or following local guidelines for medication disposal to prevent environmental contamination.

Frequently Asked Questions

About Using Azilsartan

• Can Azilsartan be taken with grapefruit juice? Grapefruit juice can interfere with the metabolism of some medications, potentially altering their effects. While direct interactions between azilsartan and grapefruit are not extensively documented in clinical literature, it is always prudent to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist. They can provide specific advice based on your individual medication profile and any contraindications.

• Is it safe to take Azilsartan while traveling across time zones? When travelling across time zones, it is generally recommended to maintain your usual daily dosing schedule as closely as possible, adapting to the new local time. Consistency is key to managing blood pressure effectively. If you experience any notable changes in how you feel or significant fluctuations in your blood pressure, consult your doctor.

• What should I do if I drink alcohol while taking Azilsartan? Consuming alcohol when taking Azilsartan can potentially enhance its blood pressure-lowering effects, leading to increased dizziness or light-headedness. It is advisable to limit alcohol consumption or avoid it altogether while on this medication. If you do drink alcohol, be aware of these potential side effects and take precautions, such as avoiding driving or operating heavy machinery.

Product Information

• What do Azilsartan pills look like? Azilsartan pills are typically described as white to off-white, film-coated tablets. Specific markings or sizes may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer of the generic product. It is best to refer to the packaging or the patient information leaflet provided with your specific medication for precise details.

• Can I split or crush Azilsartan tablets? Depending on the formulation, some medications can be split or crushed for easier administration. However, for Azilsartan, it is generally recommended to swallow the tablets whole. Splitting or crushing may alter the way the drug is released and absorbed, potentially affecting its efficacy or increasing side effects. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before altering the dosage form.

Safety & Regulations

• Will Azilsartan show up on a drug test? Azilsartan is a prescription medication used for blood pressure and is not an illicit drug or a commonly abused substance. Therefore, it would not be detected on standard drug screening tests intended to identify recreational drugs or controlled substances.

• Are there specific warnings for Azilsartan in the elderly population? Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of antihypertensive medications, including Azilsartan, and may be at a higher risk of hypotension. Dosing adjustments may be necessary, and close monitoring of blood pressure and renal function is advised. Healthcare providers typically initiate treatment at a lower dose in older adults.

• Is Azilsartan safe for use during pregnancy? Azilsartan is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy. Medications that act directly on the renin-angiotensin system can cause foetal and neonatal morbidity and mortality when administered to pregnant women, especially in the second and third trimesters. It is crucial to inform your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Glossary

Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB)

A class of medications that block the action of angiotensin II, a hormone that narrows blood vessels, thereby helping to lower blood pressure.

Hypertension

A medical condition characterised by persistently elevated blood pressure within the arteries.

Vasodilation

The widening of blood vessels, which reduces resistance and lowers blood pressure.

Aldosterone

A hormone produced by the adrenal glands that helps regulate salt and water balance in the body, impacting blood pressure.

Proteinuria

The presence of an abnormal amount of protein in the urine, which can be an indicator of kidney damage.

Disclaimer

The information concerning Azilsartan is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice. It is essential that all medical decisions, including considerations for the use of medications like Azilsartan for approved or off-label conditions, are made under the direct guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. Our platform features Azilsartan to facilitate access for individuals who may encounter difficulties in obtaining it through conventional pharmacies or insurance programs, especially when seeking cost-effective generic alternatives. We presume all users are adults competent in managing their health decisions. Always consult with your doctor before commencing, modifying, or ceasing any medication regimen.