Azilsartan Medication: Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects Explained

Summary of Key Points

Azilsartan is a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and other cardiovascular conditions. It works by relaxing blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood. Azilsartan may also be prescribed for heart failure, chronic kidney disease, and related conditions. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or adjusting your dose. Our telemedicine providers are available to assist with any questions or concerns.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Edarbi (Azilsartan)

In this article, the generic name of the medication is listed in parentheses. The generic name refers to the active ingredient, which remains the same across all brands.

Pharmacologic Category

Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB)

Azilsartan belongs to a class of medications called Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs), which includes drugs like losartan, valsartan, and irbesartan.

Azilsartan Dosage

Azilsartan is primarily used to treat the following conditions in adults. Dosage and frequency may vary based on the condition being treated. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication. Our telemedicine providers can help manage your treatment plan.

Azilsartan for Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Initial Dose: 40 mg once daily

Maintenance Dose: 40-80 mg once daily, depending on response

Azilsartan is typically prescribed to lower blood pressure. It may take 1-2 weeks to see the full effect. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your blood pressure readings.

Azilsartan for Heart Failure

Initial Dose: 40 mg once daily

Maintenance Dose: 40-80 mg once daily, depending on response

Azilsartan may help manage heart failure by reducing strain on the heart and improving blood flow. Your doctor will monitor your symptoms and adjust your dose as needed.

Azilsartan for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)

Initial Dose: 40 mg once daily

Maintenance Dose: 40-80 mg once daily, depending on response

For patients with chronic kidney disease, Azilsartan may help protect the kidneys by lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of further damage. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dose based on your kidney function.

Azilsartan for Diabetes Mellitus

Initial Dose: 40 mg once daily

Maintenance Dose: 40-80 mg once daily, depending on response

In patients with diabetes, Azilsartan can help manage blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications such as kidney damage. Regular monitoring of blood pressure and kidney function is recommended.

Azilsartan for Stroke Prevention

Initial Dose: 40 mg once daily

Maintenance Dose: 40-80 mg once daily, depending on response

Azilsartan may be prescribed to lower the risk of stroke in patients with high blood pressure or other cardiovascular risk factors. Your doctor will adjust your dose based on your overall health and response to treatment.

Azilsartan for Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)

Initial Dose: 40 mg once daily

Maintenance Dose: 40-80 mg once daily, depending on response

After a heart attack, Azilsartan may help reduce the risk of future cardiovascular events by managing blood pressure and improving heart function. Your healthcare provider will determine the best dose for you.

Azilsartan for Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)

Initial Dose: 40 mg once daily

Maintenance Dose: 40-80 mg once daily, depending on response

Azilsartan can help manage blood pressure in patients with peripheral artery disease, reducing the risk of complications such as heart attack or stroke. Consult your doctor for the appropriate dose.

Azilsartan for Atrial Fibrillation

Initial Dose: 40 mg once daily

Maintenance Dose: 40-80 mg once daily, depending on response

For patients with atrial fibrillation, Azilsartan may help control blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke. Your doctor will monitor your heart rhythm and adjust your dose as needed.

Azilsartan for Left Ventricular Hypertrophy (LVH)

Initial Dose: 40 mg once daily

Maintenance Dose: 40-80 mg once daily, depending on response

Azilsartan may be used to treat left ventricular hypertrophy, a condition where the heart muscle thickens due to high blood pressure. Reducing blood pressure can help prevent further heart damage. Consult your healthcare provider for the appropriate dose.

Dosage Forms and Strengths

Tablets: 40 mg, 80 mg

Administration Instructions for Azilsartan

Azilsartan is taken by mouth, usually once daily, with or without food. It is important to take the medication at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels in your body. Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not crush or chew the tablet. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double up on doses. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for taking this medication.

Azilsartan Contraindications

A contraindication is a specific situation or condition in which a particular medication should not be used because it may be harmful to the patient. Before starting any new medication, it’s important to know if you have any conditions that may make it unsafe for you to take the drug.

Azilsartan has several contraindications, including:

1. Allergy to Azilsartan: If you have a known allergy to azilsartan or any of its components, you should not take this medication. An allergic reaction can cause symptoms like rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing, which can be life-threatening.
2. Pregnancy: Azilsartan can harm an unborn baby, especially during the second and third trimesters. It can lead to serious complications such as kidney problems in the baby or even death. Therefore, it is contraindicated during pregnancy.
3. Severe Kidney Disease: People with severe kidney disease or those undergoing dialysis should avoid azilsartan. This medication can worsen kidney function in these individuals.
4. Severe Liver Disease: Azilsartan is processed by the liver, and in people with severe liver disease, the medication may not be metabolized properly, leading to an increased risk of side effects.
5. Use with Aliskiren in Diabetic Patients: Taking azilsartan with aliskiren (a medication used to treat high blood pressure) in patients with diabetes can increase the risk of kidney problems, high potassium levels, and low blood pressure.

Drug to Drug Interactions

Azilsartan, like other ARB medications used to treat high blood pressure, can interact with various drugs, potentially increasing side effects or reducing its effectiveness. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products.

Some medications that may interact with azilsartan include:

1. Aliskiren (Tekturna): Combining azilsartan with aliskiren, particularly in patients with diabetes, can increase the risk of kidney problems, elevated potassium levels, and low blood pressure.
2. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Medications such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) may reduce the effectiveness of azilsartan and increase the risk of kidney damage, especially in individuals who are dehydrated or have pre-existing kidney conditions.
3. Potassium Supplements or Salt Substitutes: Since azilsartan can raise potassium levels, taking potassium supplements or using salt substitutes containing potassium may lead to dangerously high potassium levels (hyperkalemia).
4. Diuretics (Water Pills): Medications like furosemide (Lasix) or hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide) can increase the risk of low blood pressure when used in combination with azilsartan.
5. ACE Inhibitors: Drugs such as lisinopril (Zestril, Prinivil) or enalapril (Vasotec) may increase the risk of kidney problems and elevated potassium levels when taken with azilsartan.

Azilsartan in Pregnancy

Is it Safe to Take Azilsartan During Pregnancy?

No, azilsartan is not considered safe during pregnancy. It is classified as a Category D drug by the FDA, meaning there is evidence of risk to the unborn baby. Azilsartan can cause harm or even death to the developing fetus, particularly during the second and third trimesters. If you become pregnant while taking azilsartan, stop the medication immediately and contact your healthcare provider. If you are planning to become pregnant, discuss alternative treatments to manage your blood pressure.

Azilsartan While Breastfeeding

Is it Safe to Take Azilsartan While Breastfeeding?

There is limited information on whether azilsartan passes into breast milk. However, due to the potential for serious side effects in a nursing infant, it is generally recommended to avoid azilsartan while breastfeeding. If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, consult your healthcare provider to explore safer alternatives for managing your blood pressure.

Estimated Cost of Azilsartan Medication

The cost of a 30-day supply of azilsartan without insurance can vary depending on the pharmacy and dosage. With a GoodRx coupon, the estimated cost for a 30-day supply of azilsartan (40 mg) typically ranges from $40 to $60. Prices may fluctuate, so it’s a good idea to check with your pharmacy or use a discount program like GoodRx to find the best available price.

Possible Alternatives to Azilsartan

Several alternative treatments and lifestyle changes may help manage the conditions for which azilsartan is prescribed. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to discuss your options.

1. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Alternatives include ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril), calcium channel blockers (e.g., amlodipine), or lifestyle changes such as reducing salt intake, engaging in regular exercise, and achieving weight loss.
2. Heart Failure: Medications like beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol) or diuretics (e.g., furosemide) may be prescribed. Lifestyle changes, such as reducing fluid intake and managing stress, can also be beneficial.
3. Chronic Kidney Disease: ACE inhibitors or other ARBs (e.g., losartan) may be suitable alternatives. Managing blood sugar and blood pressure through diet and exercise is also crucial.
4. Diabetes Mellitus: Controlling blood sugar with medications like metformin, insulin, or newer agents such as SGLT2 inhibitors (e.g., empagliflozin) can help. A healthy diet and regular physical activity are key lifestyle changes.
5. Stroke Prevention: Blood thinners like aspirin or anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin) may be prescribed. Lowering cholesterol through diet, exercise, or medications like statins can also reduce stroke risk.
6. Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack): Beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, or statins may be used. Quitting smoking, adopting a heart-healthy diet, and regular exercise are important lifestyle changes.
7. Peripheral Artery Disease: Medications like cilostazol or antiplatelet drugs (e.g., clopidogrel) may be prescribed. Regular walking and quitting smoking can help improve symptoms.
8. Atrial Fibrillation: Blood thinners such as warfarin or newer anticoagulants (e.g., apixaban) may be used. Lifestyle changes include managing stress and avoiding excessive alcohol or caffeine.
9. Left Ventricular Hypertrophy: Controlling blood pressure with medications like ACE inhibitors or calcium channel blockers can help. Reducing salt intake and maintaining a healthy weight are important lifestyle modifications.

Recent Updates on Azilsartan Research

Recent studies have explored azilsartan’s long-term effects in managing hypertension and its potential benefits for patients with chronic kidney disease. One area of ongoing research is how azilsartan compares to other ARBs in reducing cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes. Preliminary findings suggest that azilsartan may lower blood pressure more effectively than some other ARBs, but further research is needed to confirm these results.

Additionally, researchers are investigating azilsartan’s potential protective effects on kidney function in diabetic patients. Early studies indicate that azilsartan may help slow the progression of kidney damage, but more clinical trials are required to establish its long-term benefits.

Staying informed about new developments in your treatment options is essential. If you have questions about azilsartan or would like to discuss the latest research, schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers today.

James Kingsley

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