Irbesartan (Avapro) Tips from Pharmacists

• You can take irbesartan with or without food. If this medicine causes diarrhea or stomach upset, taking it with food might help.

• Irbesartan can make you dizzy and lightheaded, especially when you first start taking it or after dose adjustments. Get out of bed slowly and be cautious while driving and doing other hazardous activities until you know how this medicine affects you.

• Keep all your medical and laboratory appointments while on irbesartan. Your doctor may adjust your dose and order certain laboratory tests to monitor you for side effects.

• Keep a record of your blood pressure readings at home. Take them with you to your doctor’s visits. Your doctor may increase or decrease your irbesartan dose based on your response to the medicine.

• Eating a low-salt diet can help with blood pressure control. However, do not use potassium-containing salt substitutes while on irbesartan without checking with your doctor first.