Azilsartan medoxomil is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist used to treat high blood pressure. High blood pressure, a medical condition also known as hypertension, is characterized by increased tension in the arteries. Azilsartan medoxomil helps facilitate better blood flow to help with lowering a person's blood pressure.
Although it depends on the patient’s specific condition, the usual prescription of azilsartan medoxomil is to take a dose once a day. The patient may choose to take his dose with or without food. It is important that the patient follow the prescription instructions given to him or her, and to not take more or less of the medication than recommended. This is still the case even if the patient starts to feel better, because high blood pressure does not always come with any noticeable symptoms. Patients who forget to take a dose can take the missed doses right after they remember.
As with any other medication, a patient might experience side effects when taking azilsartan medoxomil. The most common side effect of this medication is diarrhea, although other side effects include cough, dizziness and muscle spasm. Nausea, tiredness and weakness can also occur.
Side effects that are more serious and require medical attention include abnormal urination, confusion and loss of appetite, in addition to shortness of breath, vomiting and weight gain. It is also possible that a patient might experience an allergic reaction to azilsartan medoxomil, in which case he or she should seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include breathing difficulties, hives or rash, and swelling of the face, throat or tongue.
Side effects of azilsartan medoxomil can increase with the intake of alcohol. Additional interactions with the medication include other drugs like blood pressure medications, diuretics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Medical conditions can interfere with medications as well and a patient with certain conditions such as congestive heart failure, kidney disease or liver disease should disclose this information to his or her doctor before taking azilsartan medoxomil. In addition, a pregnant woman should not take azilsartan medoxomil as the medication can be harmful or even fatal to an unborn baby. A woman who is breastfeeding should also not use the medication due to potential risks it holds for the baby.