| name | Irbesartan |
| classification | Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonist (ARA II) / Angiotensin II Blocker |
| pharmacokinetics | | absorption | Irbesartan is well absorbed after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are typically achieved within 1-2 hours. | | distribution | Irbesartan is extensively distributed throughout the body, with high concentrations observed in the kidney and liver. Protein binding is high (approximately 96%). | | metabolism | Irbesartan is primarily metabolized by the liver, but the specific pathway is not fully understood. | | excretion | Irbesartan and its metabolites are primarily excreted in the urine. The half-life is approximately 15 hours, but it can vary. |
|
| suggested dosage | | initial | 75-300 mg once daily | | comments | Individual dosages should be adjusted according to the patient's response and blood pressure control. Dosage should be individualized based on patient response. | | weight considerations | Irbesartan dosage is typically not directly weight-dependent for a patient in this weight range, however, a careful monitoring of blood pressure response is necessary, adjusting based on clinical need. |
|
| indications | Irbesartan is used for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure) and for the reduction of the risk of stroke and heart failure in high-risk patients. |
| safety in pregnancy | Category D. Irbesartan is contraindicated during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. It should be avoided completely in pregnancy, unless the benefits for the mother clearly outweigh the potential risks to the fetus. Stopping the medication as soon as pregnancy is confirmed is strongly recommended. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits with a physician if it is necessary to use this medication during pregnancy. |
| safety in breastfeeding | It is not known whether irbesartan is excreted in breast milk. It is best to avoid its use during breastfeeding. |
| side effects | | 1 | Dizziness | | 2 | Headache | | 3 | Fatigue | | 4 | Lightheadedness | | 5 | Hypotension (low blood pressure) | | 6 | Nasal congestion | | 7 | Cough | | 8 | Diarrhea | | 9 | Nausea | | 10 | Vomiting | | 11 | Back pain | | 12 | Elevated liver enzymes | | 13 | Elevated creatinine | | 14 | Hyperkalemia (high potassium) |
|
| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Pregnancy (second and third trimesters) | | 2 | Severe kidney impairment | | 3 | Hypersensitivity to irbesartan or other angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or other ARBs | | 4 | Patients taking high doses of potassium-sparing diuretics. |
|
| interactions | Irbesartan may interact with other medications, such as potassium supplements, diuretics, and ACE inhibitors. Consult your physician before taking any other medications. |
| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Careful monitoring of blood pressure is essential. | | 2 | Patients with impaired renal function should be monitored closely. | | 3 | Patients with impaired hepatic function might require dosage adjustments and careful monitoring. | | 4 | Potential for hyperkalemia (high potassium levels) in some patients, especially those with kidney problems or taking other medications that affect potassium levels. | | 5 | Sudden discontinuation of the medication can be risky and should be avoided unless necessary under medical supervision. |
|
| additional informations | Irbesartan is generally a well-tolerated medication for managing hypertension. Consult with a physician to determine if it is the appropriate treatment for your individual case. |
| patient details | |
