Description
Atacand (candesartan cilexetil) is a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure in patients who are at least one year of age. It is also used to treat heart failure and decrease hospitalization due to heart failure. In addition, it is used to reduce death due to cardiovascular problems.
Atacand is available in 4 mg, 8 mg, 16 mg, and 32 mg oral tablets.
Fact Table
|
Formula
|
C24H20N6O3
|
License
|
US FDA
|
Bioavailability
|
15%
|
Legal status
|
Rx-Only
|
Chemical Name
|
Candesartan
|
Elimination half-life
|
9 Hours
|
Dosage (Strength)
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4 mg, 8 mg, 16 mg, and 32 mg oral tablets
|
Pregnancy
|
Consult doctor
|
Brands
|
Atacand
|
Protein binding
|
(>99%)
|
PubChem CID
|
2541
|
MedlinePlus
|
a601033
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ChEBI
|
3347
|
ATC code
|
C09CA06
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DrugBank
|
DB00796
|
KEGG
|
D00522
|
Routes of administration
|
By mouth
|
Directions
Take Atacand exactly as your doctor has prescribed. If you have any questions or concerns about the medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
Each patient's Atacand dosage depends on age and the condition being treated. Your doctor will tell you how much you should take and how often.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in Atacand is candesartan cilexetil, an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). Hydroxypropyl cellulose, polyethylene glycol, lactose, corn starch, carboxymethylcellulose calcium, and magnesium stearate are the inactive ingredients contained in each tablet. Ferric oxide is also an inactive ingredient used as a colorant in the 8 mg, 16 mg, and 32 mg tablets.
Contraindications
Patients who are allergic to Atacand or to any of its ingredients should avoid the medication.
Diabetic patients should not take Atacand with aliskiren.
Cautions
Atacand has an FDA Boxed Warning against its use in pregnancy. Atacand should be stopped as soon as possible once pregnancy is detected. Atacand can cause harm and death to an unborn baby.
- Before you start taking Atacand, talk to your doctor about your:
- Medications
- Allergies
- Current health problems and past medical history
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding status
- Atacand can cause low blood pressure. Patients should monitor their blood pressure regularly.
- Atacand can decrease kidney function.
- Atacand can increase potassium levels in the blood.
Side Effects
Common Atacand medication side effects include headache, dizziness, low blood pressure, impaired kidney function, and high potassium levels in the blood; however, other side effects can occur. If bothersome or persistent side effects develop, contact your doctor right away.
Reference:
Atacand (candesartan cilexetil). Wilmington, DE: AstraZeneca LP; 2015.
About Dr. Savannah Muncy (Page Author)
Dr. Muncy (PharmD) studied science and education as an undergraduate before attending the Appalachian College of Pharmacy where she completed her PharmD in three years. She is currently using her pharmacy and healthcare expertise to write medical content for clients all around the world. She is focused on delivering the most current, accurate, and engaging information to healthcare professionals and patients. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 1353