Aliskiren Medication: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Interactions

Summary of Key Points

Aliskiren is a medication primarily used to manage high blood pressure (hypertension) and other cardiovascular conditions. It works by inhibiting a specific enzyme, which helps relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure. This, in turn, can reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney complications. It is essential to take Aliskiren exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider and consult them before making any changes to your dosage.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Tekturna (Aliskiren)

The generic name refers to the active ingredient in the medication, while the brand name is assigned by the manufacturer. In this case, Aliskiren is the generic name, and Tekturna is the brand name.

Pharmacologic Category

Direct Renin Inhibitors

Aliskiren Dosage and Uses

Aliskiren is primarily prescribed for conditions such as hypertension and heart-related diseases. The dosage may vary depending on the specific condition being treated. Always consult your healthcare provider before adjusting your dose. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers for personalized guidance.

Aliskiren for Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Initial Dose: 150 mg orally once daily

Maintenance Dose: May increase to 300 mg once daily if necessary

Aliskiren for Heart Failure

Initial Dose: 150 mg orally once daily

Maintenance Dose: May increase to 300 mg once daily based on response

Aliskiren for Chronic Kidney Disease

Initial Dose: 150 mg orally once daily

Maintenance Dose: May increase to 300 mg once daily if tolerated

Aliskiren for Diabetes Mellitus

Initial Dose: 150 mg orally once daily

Maintenance Dose: May increase to 300 mg once daily, but use with caution as Aliskiren may affect blood sugar levels

Aliskiren for Stroke Prevention

Initial Dose: 150 mg orally once daily

Maintenance Dose: May increase to 300 mg once daily

Aliskiren for Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)

Initial Dose: 150 mg orally once daily

Maintenance Dose: May increase to 300 mg once daily

Aliskiren for Peripheral Artery Disease

Initial Dose: 150 mg orally once daily

Maintenance Dose: May increase to 300 mg once daily

Aliskiren for Atrial Fibrillation

Initial Dose: 150 mg orally once daily

Maintenance Dose: May increase to 300 mg once daily

Aliskiren for Left Ventricular Hypertrophy

Initial Dose: 150 mg orally once daily

Maintenance Dose: May increase to 300 mg once daily

Aliskiren for Renal Artery Stenosis

Initial Dose: 150 mg orally once daily

Maintenance Dose: May increase to 300 mg once daily, but use with caution as Aliskiren may affect kidney function

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Tablets: 150 mg, 300 mg

Administration Instructions for Aliskiren

Aliskiren is taken orally, typically once a day. It’s important to take it at the same time each day, with or without food. However, avoid high-fat meals, as they can reduce the absorption of the medication. Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew it. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it’s almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at once.

Aliskiren Side Effects and Adverse Reactions

Like all medications, Aliskiren may cause side effects. Some are more common, while others are rare but potentially serious. If you experience any side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers for further advice.

Common Aliskiren Side Effects (Occurring in 1-10% of Patients)

Diarrhea: Loose or watery stools

Headache: Mild to moderate pain in the head

Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or unsteady

Less Common Aliskiren Side Effects (Occurring in Less than 1% of Patients)

Cough: Persistent dry cough

Rash: Skin irritation or redness

Elevated Potassium Levels (Hyperkalemia): High potassium levels in the blood, which can cause muscle weakness or irregular heartbeats

Serious Aliskiren Side Effects (Rare but Require Immediate Medical Attention)

Severe Allergic Reaction: Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing

Kidney Problems: Decreased urine output, swelling in the legs or feet

Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension): Dizziness, fainting, or feeling lightheaded, especially when standing up

Aliskiren Contraindications

A contraindication is a specific situation where a medication should not be used because it may be harmful to the patient. It’s important to understand these situations to avoid serious side effects or complications. Below are the contraindications for taking Aliskiren:

Pregnancy: Aliskiren can cause harm or even death to an unborn baby, especially during the second and third trimesters. It is not safe to take this medication if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Diabetes: Aliskiren should not be used in patients with diabetes who are also taking an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor or an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). This combination increases the risk of kidney problems, high potassium levels, and low blood pressure.

Severe kidney impairment: If you have severe kidney disease, Aliskiren may worsen your condition by affecting how your kidneys filter waste and balance electrolytes.

Hyperkalemia (high potassium levels): Aliskiren can increase potassium levels in your blood, which can be dangerous if you already have high potassium levels. This can lead to heart problems.

Angioedema: If you have a history of angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, throat, or tongue), Aliskiren may cause this condition to recur, which can be life-threatening if it affects your ability to breathe.

Drug to Drug Interactions with Aliskiren

Aliskiren can interact with other medications, potentially leading to harmful effects. Below are some medications that may interact with Aliskiren:

ACE inhibitors (e.g., Lisinopril, Enalapril): Taking these with Aliskiren increases the risk of kidney damage, elevated potassium levels, and low blood pressure.

ARBs (e.g., Losartan, Valsartan): Combining ARBs with Aliskiren can also heighten the risk of kidney issues and high potassium levels.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (e.g., Ibuprofen, Naproxen): These medications can reduce the effectiveness of Aliskiren and increase the risk of kidney damage, especially in older adults or those with pre-existing kidney conditions.

Potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., Spironolactone, Amiloride): These can raise potassium levels too high when taken with Aliskiren, potentially leading to dangerous heart complications.

Cyclosporine (an immunosuppressant): This drug can increase the levels of Aliskiren in your body, raising the risk of side effects.

Itraconazole (an antifungal): This medication can also elevate Aliskiren levels in your blood, increasing the risk of toxicity.

Aliskiren in Pregnancy

Is it Safe to Take Aliskiren During Pregnancy?

No, Aliskiren is not safe during pregnancy. It can cause serious harm to an unborn baby, including birth defects or even death, particularly during the second and third trimesters. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, stop taking Aliskiren immediately and consult your healthcare provider. If you’re unsure about your options, schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to discuss safer alternatives.

Aliskiren While Breastfeeding

Is it Safe to Take Aliskiren While Breastfeeding?

It is not known whether Aliskiren passes into breast milk. However, due to the potential for serious adverse effects in a nursing infant, it is generally recommended to avoid using this medication while breastfeeding. If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, talk to your healthcare provider about safer treatment options. Our telemedicine providers are available to help you make an informed decision.

Estimated Cost of Aliskiren Medication

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Aliskiren (brand name Tekturna) without insurance can vary. Using a GoodRx coupon, the price typically ranges from $100 to $150 for a 150 mg or 300 mg dose. Prices may vary depending on the pharmacy and location, so it’s a good idea to check for the best deal.

Possible Alternatives to Aliskiren

If Aliskiren is not an option for you, there are other medications and lifestyle changes that may help manage your condition. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. Here are some alternatives for common conditions treated with Aliskiren:

1. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Other medications such as ACE inhibitors (Lisinopril), ARBs (Losartan), calcium channel blockers (Amlodipine), or thiazide diuretics (Hydrochlorothiazide) may be used. Lifestyle changes like reducing salt intake, regular exercise, and weight loss can also help.
2. Heart Failure: Medications like beta-blockers (Metoprolol), ARBs (Valsartan), or diuretics (Furosemide) may be prescribed. Lifestyle changes such as reducing sodium intake and managing stress can also improve symptoms.
3. Chronic Kidney Disease: ACE inhibitors or ARBs are often used to protect kidney function. Managing blood pressure and blood sugar levels, as well as maintaining a healthy diet, are important lifestyle changes.
4. Diabetes Mellitus: Controlling blood sugar with medications like Metformin or insulin, along with dietary changes and regular exercise, can help manage diabetes and reduce complications.
5. Stroke Prevention: Blood thinners (Aspirin, Warfarin) or cholesterol-lowering medications (Atorvastatin) may be prescribed. Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, exercising, and eating a heart-healthy diet are also important.
6. Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack): Medications like beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and statins may be used. Cardiac rehabilitation and lifestyle changes like quitting smoking and eating a heart-healthy diet are crucial for recovery.
7. Peripheral Artery Disease: Blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering medications, and lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and exercising can help manage symptoms.
8. Atrial Fibrillation: Blood thinners (Warfarin, Apixaban), beta-blockers, or antiarrhythmic medications may be prescribed. Lifestyle changes like reducing alcohol intake and managing stress can also help.
9. Left Ventricular Hypertrophy: ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or beta-blockers may be used to manage this condition. Lifestyle changes such as managing blood pressure and reducing salt intake are also important.
10. Renal Artery Stenosis: Treatment may include blood pressure-lowering medications, and in some cases, surgery or stenting may be necessary. Managing cholesterol levels and quitting smoking are important lifestyle changes.

Recent Updates on Aliskiren Research

Recent studies have explored the potential benefits of Aliskiren beyond blood pressure control. Some research suggests that Aliskiren may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which could provide additional cardiovascular benefits. However, more studies are needed to confirm these findings. Additionally, ongoing research is investigating the long-term effects of Aliskiren on kidney function in patients with chronic kidney disease. As always, consult with your healthcare provider to understand how the latest research may impact your treatment plan. If you have any questions, our telemedicine providers are available to discuss the most up-to-date information with you.

James Kingsley

Learn More