Azilsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker used to lower blood pressure. It relaxes blood vessels so the heart pumps easier and blood pressure drops. Doctors prescribe it alone or with blood pressure medicines when lifestyle changes aren’t enough.
Common doses are 40 mg or 80 mg taken once daily. Start is 40 mg; your doctor may increase to 80 mg if blood pressure stays high. Take it once daily, with or without food. If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless the next dose is near—don’t double up.
Watch for common side effects: dizziness, tiredness, headache, and stomach upset. Dizziness from a drop in blood pressure is most likely when you first start or after a dose increase. Less common but more serious issues include high potassium and changes in kidney function. Call your doctor if you notice lightheadedness, muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, or reduced urine output.
Azilsartan can interact with other drugs. Avoid taking potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics unless your provider approves. NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) may reduce the blood pressure benefit and raise kidney risk. Lithium levels can rise when combined with ARBs. Tell your prescriber about medicines and supplements you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Don’t use azilsartan if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy. ARBs can harm a developing baby. If pregnancy is found while taking azilsartan, stop it and contact your healthcare provider right away.
People with kidney problems or narrowing of the arteries to the kidneys (renal artery stenosis) need special care; azilsartan may worsen kidney function. Your doctor will likely check blood tests—serum creatinine and potassium—within 1 to 2 weeks after starting or changing dose. Follow-up helps catch problems early.
Older adults may be more sensitive to blood pressure drops and dehydration. Start low and watch for dizziness, falls, or confusion. Drink adequate fluids unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
Safe use tips: keep a home blood pressure log, take the medicine at a steady time, and avoid sudden position changes when standing. Don’t stop azilsartan suddenly—if you need to stop, work with your doctor to taper or switch medications.
Looking for reliable info or where to buy meds safely? Medzino has guides on buying prescriptions online, checking pharmacy credentials, and comparing costs. Read reviews and choose licensed pharmacies that require a valid prescription.
Questions for your prescriber: Why was azilsartan chosen for me? What dose is best? Which tests should I get and when? Who do I call for side effects? Bring this list to your next visit to make the conversation direct and useful.
Insurance coverage varies: check formularies and ask if generic options are available to lower costs. If you experience severe side effects like fainting, swelling of face or throat, or trouble breathing, seek emergency care. Keep a list of your medications and show it to any new provider — it prevents dangerous interactions. Read Medzino articles on blood pressure, drug safety, and safe online pharmacies.
As someone who is passionate about health and wellness, I recently came across a fascinating study on the potential role of Azilsartan in treating hypertensive retinopathy. Hypertensive retinopathy is a condition where high blood pressure damages the retina's blood vessels, which can lead to vision problems. Azilsartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker, has shown promising results in reducing blood pressure and may also protect the retina from damage. It's exciting to think that this medication could potentially help those suffering from hypertensive retinopathy maintain their vision and overall eye health. I'll definitely be keeping an eye on further research in this area and will share any updates I come across!