Micardis

What is it?

Composition

Micardis tablets contain the active substance telmisartan, which is responsible for the main therapeutic effect of the drug. Each tablet may contain 20, 40 or 80 mg of telmisartan, depending on the prescribed dosage. In addition to the main component, the composition includes excipients that ensure the stability and form of the drug.

Excipients include:

• Meglumine
• Povidone (K25)
• Sorbitol
• Magnesium stearate
• Sodium hydroxide

These components help the tablet maintain its shape and ensure its proper dissolution and absorption in the body, which is important for maintaining a stable level of the active substance in the blood.

How to use?

Micardis is usually started with an individually selected dosage, determined by the doctor, taking into account the patients condition and the degree of arterial hypertension. As a rule, the standard starting dose is 40 mg once a day. In some cases, especially if a more pronounced hypotensive effect is required, the dose may be increased to 80 mg per day.

To achieve the maximum effect and minimize the risk of side effects, it is important to follow these rules:

1. Take the tablet once a day, preferably at the same time, regardless of food intake.
2. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a sufficient amount of water.
3. Do not change the dosage or stop taking the drug without consulting a doctor, even if the pressure has returned to normal.

It is important to remember that Micardis is intended for long-term use. Its effectiveness depends on regular use, so skipping doses or changing the treatment regimen on your own is highly discouraged.

How does it work?

Micardis is based on the active substance telmisartan, which belongs to the class of angiotensin II receptor antagonists. Angiotensin II is a hormone that causes blood vessels to narrow, which leads to increased blood pressure. Telmisartan blocks the action of this hormone by preventing it from binding to receptors in the walls of blood vessels.

Due to this mechanism, blood vessels dilate, which leads to a decrease in blood pressure. This not only makes the heart work easier, but also reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases such as myocardial infarction or stroke. Micardis has a long-lasting effect, providing a stable decrease in pressure throughout the day after administration.

Indications

Micardis is used primarily to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). This condition can be dangerous to health because high blood pressure puts strain on the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of serious complications such as heart attack, stroke, or congestive heart failure. The drug helps control blood pressure, reducing the likelihood of these complications.

The main indications for Micardis include:

• Hypertension - to stabilize high blood pressure and control it over a long period of time.
• Reducing the risk of cardiovascular events - in patients with risk factors such as diabetes or previous cardiovascular diseases.
• Cardiovascular diseases - to prevent their development or progression.

The effectiveness of Micardis in reducing blood pressure and protecting against cardiovascular risks makes it an important component of the complex treatment of these conditions.

Contraindications

Although Micardis is an effective drug for the treatment of hypertension, its use may be limited in the presence of certain conditions and diseases. Contraindications are important to consider in order to avoid possible complications and adverse reactions.

Main contraindications for the use of Micardis:

• Hypersensitivity to telmisartan or any of the auxiliary components of the drug.
• Severe liver dysfunction, including cholestasis and biliary cirrhosis.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding, since the drug can adversely affect the development of the fetus and newborn.
• Children under 18 years of age, since the safety and effectiveness of Micardis in children have not been established.
• The presence of a condition accompanied by severe hyperkalemia (increased potassium levels in the blood).

If there are other chronic diseases or if the patient is taking other medications, it is necessary to consult a doctor before starting treatment with Micardis. This will help to exclude possible drug interactions and adapt the therapy to the individual needs of the patient.

Side effects

Although Micardis is generally well tolerated, some patients may experience side effects. In most cases, these are mild to moderate and may disappear once the body adapts to the drug. However, it is important to be aware of possible reactions and to report any unpleasant symptoms to your doctor immediately.

Some possible side effects include:

• Dizziness or headache, especially at the beginning of treatment or when the dosage is increased.
• Hyperkalemia (high levels of potassium in the blood), which may manifest as weakness, abnormal heart rhythms.
• Nausea, digestive upset, including diarrhea or constipation.
• A drop in blood pressure below normal (hypotension), especially in patients who are dehydrated or taking diuretics.
• Allergic reactions, such as skin rash, itching, or swelling, and in rare cases, angioedema.