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Atacand Plus

(candesartan - hydrochlorothiazide)

In this factsheet:
• How does Atacand Plus work? What will it do for me?
• How should I use Atacand Plus?
• What form(s) does Atacand Plus come in?
• Who should NOT take Atacand Plus?
• What side effects are possible with Atacand Plus?
• Are there any other precautions or warnings for Atacand Plus?
• What other drugs could interact with Atacand Plus?

DIN (Drug Identification Number)

How does Atacand Plus work? What will it do for me?

Candesartan belongs to a family of medications known as angiotensin II receptor blockers. Hydrochlorothiazide belongs to a family of medications known as diuretics (or "water pills"). This combination medication is used to lower high blood pressure. Candesartan works by relaxing blood vessels. Angiotensin II is a chemical that the body releases to cause the constriction (tightening up) of blood vessels. Candesartan blocks the action of angiotensin II, resulting in the relaxation of the blood vessels. This relaxation causes the blood pressure to decrease. Hydrochlorothiazide works by causing the body to get rid of excess salt and water. Treatment is started with each of the ingredients separately (i.e., candesartan and hydrochlorothiazide). Once the best dose of each individual ingredient is found, the combination medication may then be used at the appropriate dose.

Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

How should I use Atacand Plus?

The usual adult dose is one tablet to be taken once daily at approximately the same time each day, with or without food. Do not remove this medication from the blister package until just before you take it.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

If you forget to take a dose, but remember within 12 hours, take it as soon as possible and then go back to your regular dose. If more than 12 hours have passed since your usual dose, skip that dose and carry on as usual with your next dose. Never double-up on doses.

To ensure you receive the maximum benefit from the medication, it is important to take this medication regularly and to follow your doctor's instructions regarding blood pressure monitoring.

Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.

What form(s) does Atacand Plus come in?

Each oval, biconvex, peach tablet, with a score and marked "A" over "CS" on one side, contains candesartan cilexetil 16 mg and hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: calcium carboxymethylcellulose, hydroxylpropyl cellulose, iron oxide, lactose, magnesium stearate, maize starch, and polyethylene glycol.

Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.

Who should NOT take Atacand Plus?

This medication should not be taken by anyone who:

• is allergic to candesartan, hydrochlorothiazide, or any of the ingredients of the product
• is allergic to sulfonamide-containing medications
• has severe kidney disease and cannot pass urine
• is pregnant

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