Direct Renin Inhibitor/Calcium Channel Blockers

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Thiazide Diuretics

Name             

Trade Name                     Generic Name

Tekturna                          Aliskiren

Tekturna HCT                   Aliskiren-hydrochlorothiazide   

Tekalmo                           Aliskiren-Amlodipine

Amturnide                          Aliskiren-Amlodipine-hydrochlorothiazide

Valturna                          Aliskiren-Valsartan                                       

Use                  Treat high blood pressure

Action             Aliskiren blocks renin; a hormone/enzyme secreted by the kidney and prevents  constriction of blood vessels.  Blocking these enzymes dilates the blood vessels, reduces  the workload upon the heart and lowers the blood pressure. Calcium channel blockers dilate peripheral arteries by working on the vascular smooth muscle.             Hydrochlorothiazide acts to excrete sodium.

Possible Side Effects

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

• Increase in kidney levels, change in potassium levels.
• Rash
• Cough
• Diarrhea
• Swelling
• Dizziness, headache.

Guidelines for Taking This Medication

• May be taken without regard to food
• Notify your doctor if you are allergic to sulfa containing drugs.
• Notify if you have acute angle closure glaucoma, this medication may worsen.
• Notify if you currently use cyclosporine, lithium.
• Notify your doctor or nurse if you develop muscle weakness, muscle cramps or irregular heart beats
• Do not take a potassium supplement unless prescribed by the doctor
• Avoid salt substitutes containing potassium
• 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 agent.

Follow-up Tests

• Blood test to monitor electrolytes and kidney function

ver 12.