Micardis (telmisartan) is a white, oblong-shaped, uncoated tablet containing either 40 mg or 80 mg of telmisartan as the active ingredient. In addition, Micardis tablets contain the following nonmedicinal ingredients: magnesium stearate, meglumine, povidone, sodium hydroxide and sorbitol.

If you are on a special diet, or if you are allergic to any substance, ask your doctor or pharmacist whether any of these ingredients may cause a problem.

Why has Your Doctor Prescribed Micardis?

Your doctor has prescribed Micardis tablets for your high blood pressure, also known as hypertension.

What is Blood Pressure?

Blood pressure is the pressure of the blood on an arterial wall which is pumped by the heart to all parts of your body. Your blood pressure might change depending on your level of activity, stress or excitement, and other such factors.

What is High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)?

High blood pressure increases the workload of the heart and arteries. If this condition continues for a long time, damage to the blood vessels of the brain, heart and kidneys can occur, and may eventually result in a stroke, heart failure or kidney failure. High blood pressure also increases the risk of heart attacks. Reducing your blood pressure decreases your risk of developing these illnesses.

How do you Know if you Have High Blood Pressure?

To detect high blood pressure, it is recommended that you have your blood pressure checked regularly by your doctor, as there may be no symptoms associated with high blood pressure.

Why Should you be Treated?

High blood pressure if left untreated, could lead to stroke, heart attack, heart failure, kidney failure or blindness.

How Does Micardis Work?

Angiotensin II is a naturally occurring hormone in the human body that causes the blood vessels to constrict, thus affecting the blood pressure. Micardis lowers blood pressure by specifically blocking the action of angiotensin II, and thus relaxing the blood vessels and as a result blood pressure is lowered.

What you Should Tell Your Doctor Before you use Micardis?

You should tell your doctor the following before you use Micardis:

• If you have any allergies.
  
• If you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant. When used in pregnancy during the second and third trimester, drugs like Micardis can cause fetal injury or death.
  
• If you are breast-feeding. It is not known whether telmisartan can pass into human milk, therefore do not breast-feed during treatment.
  
• If you have any other health problems, including kidney or liver disease.
  
• If you are taking any other medication, including diuretics, herbal preparations or any other medications you can buy without a prescription.
  

How to Take Micardis

The recommended dose of Micardis (telmisartan) is 80 mg once daily. It may be taken with or without food, but it should be taken the same way each day. You should follow any other direction that your doctor has given you for the treatment and/or monitoring of your condition.

What Happens if a Dose is Missed?

Try to take your dose at the same time each day, preferably in the morning. However, if you have forgotten to take your dose during the day, carry on with the next one at the usual time. Do not double dose.

What to do in Case of Overdose

If you experience dizziness and/or fainting, contact your doctor immediately so that medical attention may be given promptly.

Additional Notes to Remember

• Micardis has been prescribed to treat your condition. Do not give it to other people.
  
• Do not take any other medication without your doctor's advice. Tell any other doctor, dentist or pharmacist with whom you consult that you are using Micardis.
  
• In case of overdosage, consult your doctor immediately.
  
• Keep out of the reach of children.
  
• Consult you doctor immediately if you become pregnant while using Micardis. Drugs like Micardis can cause fetal injury or death.
  
• Like any drug product, Micardis may cause some unwanted effects along with good effects. The most common adverse events in patients treated with Micardis tablets as compared to placebo were: headache, upper respiratory tract infection, dizziness, pain and diarrhea. Tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly about these or any other unusual symptoms.
  
• If you develop an allergic reaction involving swelling of the face, lips and/or tongue, stop taking Micardis and contact your physician immediately.
  
• If you have any other questions about Micardis, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
  

How Should Micardis be Stored?

Micardis tablets should be stored at room temperature (15 to 30°C). Tablets should not be removed from blisters until immediately prior to administration. Avoid excessive heat and avoid moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets.