CALCIUM CHANNEL BLOCKER (CCB)/ANGIOTENSIN RECEPTOR BLOCKER (ARB) COMBINATION

Name        Trade Name   Generic Name
Azor           amlodipine  /  olmesartan
Exforge       amlodipine  /  valsartan
Twynsta      amlodipine  /  telmisartan
  

Use:

Treat high blood pressure

Action:

Calcium channel blockers relax or dilate the arteries of the heart and other arteries of the body. Angiotensin receptor blockers prevent constriction of blood vessels in the body which increases the amount of resistance upon the heart when it beats. Blocking this receptor results in dilatation of blood vessels, reduces the workload upon the heart and lowers the blood pressure. These two approaches to blockade and blood vessel dilation lower blood pressure.

Possible Side Effects:

Every drug is capable of producing side effects. Most patients experience no, or minor, side effects.

Common: Lightheadedness, cough, swollen ankles

Rare: Potassium retention, swelling of tongue or difficulty breathing, yellowing of the skin or eyes, muscle pain, swollen gums, headache, upset stomach.

Guidelines for Taking This Medication:

• May be taken without regard to food
• Take your medication at the same time each day
  
  
• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember; do not take it if it is almost time for the next dose
• Do not stop this medication, unless directed by your doctor or nurse
• To avoid lightheadedness, rise from a sitting or lying position slowly
• Notify your doctor or nurse promptly if you develop swelling of hands or feet, swelling of the tongue, difficulty breathing, skin rash, yellowing of skin or eyes or persistent dry cough, swelling of gums, headache or upset stomach
• Do not take a potassium supplement unless prescribed by the doctor
• Avoid salt substitutes containing potassium
• Be aware of foods that are high in potassium, such as avocados, bananas, dried fruits, melons, brussel sprouts, cauliflower, potatoes, beans and nuts
• Good dental hygiene decreases the incidence of swollen, bleeding gums
• Avoid over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy and diet medications except upon professional recommendation
• Do not take more than 20mg of Zocor (Simvastatin) a commonly prescribed cholesterol lowering medication.
• Check your blood pressure regularly at home

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