Indications 

Atacand is a prescription medicine for hypertension in adults and pediatric patients aged one year and above. It lowers blood pressure, reducing the risk of fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular events such as strokes and myocardial infarctions. 

In addition to its use for hypertension, Atacand is also prescribed for the treatment of heart failure, with proven efficacy in reducing the incidence of cardiovascular death and hospitalization due to heart failure. 

Belonging to the class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), Atacand impedes the activity of natural vasoconstrictors, leading to improved blood flow and enhanced cardiac performance. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Atacand and with each prescription refill, carefully read its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Do not hesitate to seek counsel from your physician or pharmacist for any inquiries or apprehensions. 

Atacand dosage is determined based on the patient’s medical condition and response to the treatment. In children, weight is also taken into account.  

Physicians usually initiate this medication at a low dosage and incrementally escalate it, with no more than one adjustment permitted within a 2-week interval. 

Typically, Atacand is taken once or twice a day, as prescribed by the doctor, without regard to food intake. 

For optimal results, take this medication regularly, around the same time daily. Take it exactly as directed and refrain from taking less or more of it or taking it more frequently than prescribed. 

Do not discontinue Atacand intake without consulting your physician, even if you feel well. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the side effects associated with the use of Atancand. If any of them persist or worsen, inform your doctor promptly. 

Common Side Effects 

• Headache 
• Back pain 
• Dizziness 
• Cold symptoms: 
  • Stuffy nose 
  • Sneezing 
  • Sore throat 

Serious Side Effects 

• Feeling light-headed with the potential of passing out 
• Little or no urination 
• Signs of high potassium level: 
  • Nausea 
  • Weakness 
  • Tingly feeling, 
  • Chest pain 
  • Irregular heartbeats 
  • Loss of movement 

Allergic Reactions 

In rare cases, a severe allergic reaction may occur when taking Atacand. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as: 

• Rash 
• Itching or swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat) 
• Severe dizziness 
• Trouble breathing 

This list does not contain all the potential side effects of Atacand. If you experience other effects not listed above, inform your doctor promptly.  

Cautions 

Before taking Atacand, inform your doctor and pharmacist of any allergies you have, especially to candesartan, other medications, or any ingredients present in Atacand tablets. 

To ensure Atacand is safe for you, disclose your medical history to your doctor, especially of:  

• Liver disease 
• Elevated level of potassium in the blood 
• Dehydration 

Atacand may interact with other medications, potentially affecting its efficacy or increasing the likelihood of severe side effects. To reduce the risk of such drug interactions, disclose to your physician and pharmacist all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription and non-prescription drugs, dietary supplements, and herbal products. 

Some products that may interact with Atacand include:  

• Aliskiren 
• Lithium 
• Medications that have the potential to elevate blood potassium levels (such as sparsentan, ACE inhibitors including benazepril/lisinopril, and birth control pills containing drospirenone) 

Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking cough-and-cold products, diet aids, or NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen/naproxen), as some of them may have ingredients that may increase blood pressure or exacerbate heart failure. Inquire about the safe usage of these products. 

Prior to taking potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium, consult your doctor or pharmacist due to the potential for Atacand to elevate potassium levels. 

Atacand can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting, especially when getting up quickly from a lying position. This is more likely to occur at the beginning of treatment. To minimize the risk, get up slowly and pause for a few minutes with your feet on the ground before standing up. 

Excessive sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting may lead to lightheadedness. Notify your doctor if you experience prolonged diarrhea or vomiting. 

Inform your physician if you are pregnant or planning to conceive, as Atacand should not be taken during pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, consult your doctor immediately to discuss the associated risks and benefits. 

Consult your doctor before breastfeeding while taking Atacand, as it is uncertain whether its active ingredient, candesartan, is excreted in human milk.