Atacand (Candesartan)
Medication information written by Dr. Larisa Roybal, PharmD
Updated - January 14, 2021
Atacand (Candesartan) Product Information
Candesartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB). It can also be prescribed to treat high blood pressure, so that heart attacks, strokes and kidney disease are prevented. Candesartan stops blood vessels from constricting and this helps to lower your blood pressure, and blood flow is also enhanced.
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Brand name Candesartan is manufactured by Takeda and AstraZeneca. We carry it in four strengths: 4 mg, 8 mg, 16 mg and 32 mg. The generic alternative for this medication, Candesartan, is available in the same dosages, but is produced by different manufacturers.
This medication is available from our licensed pharmacies in Canada and the UK, so a shipment to the US would take an estimated 7-10 business days. Shipping starts at $9.95, but tracked or express shipping is available for an additional charge.
To compare the cost of Atacand with your local pharmacy, simply select the dosage box above to check the price of the brand and generic medication.
Prescriptions can be faxed, emailed, uploaded, or called in by your doctor's office. Our fax number is 1-855-776-0076, and the email to send your prescription for processing is [email protected]. To reach us by phone, our toll free number is 1-855-776-0079.
Atacand (Candesartan) Medication Information
Uses
Atacand is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) indicated for:
- Treatment of hypertension in adults and children 1 to < 17 years of age, to lower blood pressure. Lowering blood pressure reduces the risk of fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular events, primarily strokes and myocardial infarctions.
- Treatment of heart failure (NYHA class II-IV); Atacand reduces cardiovascular death and heart failure hospitalization
Dosage
There are oral tablets available in several different strengths:
- 4 mg
- 8 mg
- 16 mg
- 32 mg
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Atacand include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Hypotension
- Abnormal renal function
- Hyperkalemia
Speak with your doctor or pharmacist for a full list of side effects that applies to you.
Precautions
Observe for signs and symptoms of hypotension. Symptomatic hypotension is most likely to occur in patients who have been volume and/or salt depleted as a result of prolonged diuretic therapy, dietary salt restriction, dialysis, diarrhea, or vomiting.
Monitor renal function and potassium levels. Changes in renal function including acute renal failure can be caused by drugs that inhibit the renin-angiotensin system. Drugs that inhibit the renin-angiotensin system can cause hyperkalemia.
Interactions
Some of the common drug interactions with Atacand:
- Aliskiren
- Lithium
- NSAIDs
- ARBs
- Potassium supplements
For a more complete list speak with your doctor or pharmacist
Storage
Store at controlled room temperature (77ºF) and keep container tightly closed.
Pharmacist Tips
- This medication can be titrated.
- Most of the antihypertensive effect is present within 2 weeks, and maximal blood pressure reduction is generally obtained within 4 to 6 weeks of treatment with Atacand.
- If you miss a dose of Atacand, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Take the next dose on time. Do not take 2 doses at one time. If you are not sure about your dosing call your doctor or pharmacist.
- Atacand can cause you to feel dizzy or tired. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do other dangerous activities until you know how Atacand affects you.
Candesartan FAQs
Can I take this with food?
Atacand can be taken with or without food.
Can I take this if I am pregnant?
Use of drugs that act on the renin-angiotensin system during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy reduces fetal renal function and increases fetal and neonatal morbidity and death. When pregnancy is detected, discontinue Atacand as soon as possible.
Can I use this while breastfeeding?
Atacand cannot be used during breastfeeding. Either nursing or drug should be discontinued.
What are the ingredients in Atacand?
Candesartan cilexetil.
What should I avoid while taking Atacand?
Atacand can cause you to feel dizzy or tired. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do other dangerous activities until you know how Atacand affects you.
What is Atacand used for?
Atacand is used to treat high blood pressure in adults and children and for certain types of heart failure in adults.
Related Drugs
Reference:
Atacand {package insert}. Wilmington, DE: AstraZeneca LP; 2015.
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2015/020838s036lbl.pdf
Author: Dr. Larisa Roybal, PharmD
Dr. Roybal is a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist who has practiced in both ambulatory and acute care settings. Her pharmacy interests include oncology and general inpatient pharmacy.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.