Telmisartan

Information About Telmisartan

Uses of Telmisartan

Telmisartan is commonly used in the treatment of diabetic kidney disease, heart failure, hypertension, prevention of heart attack and stroke

How Telmisartan Works

Telmisartan works by selectively blocking the binding of angiotensin II to AT1 receptors, thereby reducing angiotensin II-induced peripheral vessel constriction, aldosterone-secretion, and sodium reabsorption.

Side Effects of Telmisartan

Hypotension, Orthostatic hypotension, Hyperkalaemia, Bradycardia, Chest pain, Tachycardia, Palpitation, Difficulty in breathing, Hypertension, Peripheral oedema, Intermittent claudication, Increased serum creatinine, Tinnitus, Vertigo.

Authorship

Written By

Dr Mohd Ramzdhan Bin Mohd Masdar

MD (Crimea State Medical University)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Telmisartan Related Warnings

Alcohol Not Advisable

Avoid drinking alcohol. It can further lower your blood pressure and may exaggerate some of the side effects of telmisartan.

Pregnancy Not Safe

The use of telmisartan is not recommended in the first trimester and it is not allowed during the second and third trimester. It is proved that telmisartan will exert toxic effects on the human foetus during the second and third trimester.

Lactation Limited Data

There is no information available regarding the use of telmisartan during breast-feeding, therefore, it is not recommended. Alternative treatments with better-established safety profiles during breast-feeding are preferable.

Driving Not advisable

Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Telmisartan may cause side effects such as dizziness or drowsiness, all of which could affect the ability to concentrate and drive.

Kidney Safe If Prescribed

Telmisartan effectively and safely reduces blood pressure and brought about the regression of proteinuria in diabetic and non-diabetic, hypertensive, proteinuric patients with chronic kidney disease, even in those with mild-to-moderate chronic renal failure.

Liver Limited Data

Occasional elevations of liver chemistries occurred in patients treated with telmisartan. Dose adjustment may be required in patients with mild to moderate liver impairment. It is contraindicated in patients with severe liver impairment.