Uses of Candesartan

Candesartan is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults and in children and adolescents (aged 6 to under 18 years). It is also used to treat heart failure in adult patients with reduced heart muscle function, when angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and minerolocorticoid receptor antagonists (medicines used to treat heart failure) cannot be used. 

Therapeutic Category

Candesartan: Anti-hypertensive agents (Angiotensin II receptor antagonists)

How Candesartan works

Candesartan works by blocking the action of angiotensin II hormone (chemical that cause narrowing of blood vessels) which cause relaxation and widening of blood vessel wall resulting in reduced pressure (on the blood vessel wall) and aiding heart to pump blood more smoothly to other parts of the body in affected individuals.

Common side effects of Candesartan

• feeling dizzy/spinning sensation
• headache
• respiratory infection
• low blood pressure (signs include feeling faint/dizzy)

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• In case of accidental overdosage
• difficulties in breathing, with or without swelling of the face, lips, tongue and/or throat
• swelling of the face, lips, tongue and/or throat, which may cause difficulties in swallowing
• severe itching of the skin (with raised lumps)

Health Tips for Candesartan

• Maintain a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins that is low in salt. The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet is an example of a blood pressure-lowering diet. Reducing your salt intake might also help you regulate your blood pressure
• Exercise on a regular basis, as directed by your healthcare physician. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise each week or 75 minutes of strenuous exercise. Regular exercise can help decrease blood pressure and enhance cardiovascular health in general
• Losing weight if you are overweight or obese might have a substantial impact on your blood pressure readings. Even a small weight decrease can benefit blood pressure and overall health
• If you smoke, you should think about quitting because it can raise your blood pressure and increase your risk of heart disease. Limit your alcohol consumption because excessive drinking can raise your blood pressure
• Candesartan should be taken exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not skip doses or discontinue medicine without first checking with your doctor