Irbesartan (Avapro) Drug for High Blood Pressure: Use, Side Effects, Interactions

Irbesartan
(Avapro, United States)

Use:

Irbesartan or Avapro is indicated for high blood pressure or hypertension.

How It Works:

Irbesartan or Avapro is a angiotensin II receptor antagonist which blocks the binding of angiotensin II to type 1 angiotensin II receptors, which means that angiotensin can not elicit its vasoconstriction actions. Blood pressure is lowered.

Side Effects:

Irbesartan or Avapro is well tolerated. Cough is a side effect associated with ACE inhibitors, but by affecting the angiotensin system in the way it does, Irbesartan or Avapro avoids this cough side effect.

Cautions for People:

Irbesartan or Avapro should not be used in pregnant women because it is toxic to the developing fetus.

Drug Interactions:

Irbesartan or Avapro is used in blood pressure control and can be used in combination with other drugs which also lower blood pressure, but care must be taken to ensure the blood pressure is not lowered too much so that postural hypotension results.

Further Reading:

Medical Letter 1998:40(1019):18

Added to Virtual Drugstore May 1998.

The relevant product monographs must be regarded as the appropriate sources of prescribing information.