How It Works
Candesartan targets a specific hormone in the body called angiotensin II. This hormone plays a major role in how the body maintains blood pressure.
- Relaxing blood vessels: Angiotensin II normally tells your blood vessels to squeeze or constrict. When vessels are tight, blood pressure goes up. Candesartan blocks the hormone from sending this signal. This allows the blood vessels to relax and widen.
- Improving blood flow: As the vessels widen, it becomes easier for the heart to pump blood throughout the body. This improved blood flow reduces the overall workload put on the heart muscle.
- Managing fluid balance: Angiotensin II also tells the body to release another hormone called aldosterone. Aldosterone causes the body to hold onto salt and water. By blocking this process, candesartan helps the body balance its fluids, which may further support stable blood pressure.
- Heart protection: In patients with heart failure, the heart is often too weak to pump effectively. By lowering resistance in the blood vessels, candesartan makes it easier for a weakened heart to continue pumping.
| Quick Facts | |
|---|---|
| Common Brands | Atacand |
| Drug Class | Angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) |
| Generic Status | Generic version available |
| Availability | Prescription only |
Dosing
Candesartan is typically taken once or twice a day. For many people, a once-daily dose is sufficient to help control blood pressure for 24 hours.
- Standard starting dose: For adults with high blood pressure, providers often start treatment with 16 mg once daily. Depending on how your body responds, the dose may be adjusted to a range between 8 mg and 32 mg per day.
- Heart failure dosing: When used for heart failure, the starting dose is usually lower, often 4 mg once daily. Your healthcare team may slowly increase this dose every two weeks to reach a target of 32 mg.
- Consistency: It is important to take the tablet at the same time every day. This keeps a steady level of the medicine in your system.
- With or without food: You can take candesartan tablets with or without a meal. If you find the medication upsets your stomach, taking it with food may help.
- Monitoring: While taking this medication, your provider will likely order regular blood tests. These tests check your kidney function and your potassium levels to ensure the medicine is working safely.
Note: Dosing information below is educational only. Your prescribing physician will determine your specific dose based on your individual health needs. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for exact dosing.
Uses
FDA-Approved Uses
Candesartan is FDA-approved to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart failure.
Off-Label Uses
You may see candesartan prescribed for uses that are not “FDA-approved.” This is a common and legal practice called “off-label” prescribing, where a doctor uses their clinical judgment to prescribe a drug for a different (but well-researched) purpose.
- Migraine prevention: Clinical research suggests that candesartan can reduce the frequency and severity of migraine headaches.
- Diabetic kidney protection: Providers may use candesartan to help protect the kidneys in patients with type 2 diabetes who show early signs of kidney stress.
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Side Effects
Most people take candesartan without experiencing significant issues. But, mild side effects happen as the body adjusts to lower blood pressure, These side effects often fade over time.
Common Side Effects
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Back discomfort
Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare, but it’s important to know what to look for if they do occur.
- Kidney problems: Standard guidelines suggest monitoring for signs of kidney stress, such as changes in how often you urinate or swelling in the ankles and feet.
- High potassium (hyperkalemia): Symptoms of high potassium can include nausea, muscle weakness, or a slow or irregular heartbeat.
- Severely low blood pressure (hypotension): Candesartan lowers blood pressure. If blood pressure is too low, that may cause fainting or confusion, especially if you are dehydrated.
- Allergic reactions: Signs include a rash, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, and throat.
Call your doctor immediately if you experience any concerning or prolonged symptoms.
Pharmacist Tips
Stand Up Slowly
If you feel dizzy when getting out of bed or a chair, move slowly. This gives your body time to adjust the blood flow and helps prevent falls.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water is important. Dehydration can cause your blood pressure to drop too low while taking this medicine.
Check Your Blood Pressure at Home
Keeping a log of your blood pressure readings can help your doctor decide if your candesartan dose is correct.
Avoid Salt Substitutes
Many salt substitutes contain potassium instead of sodium. Since candesartan can raise potassium levels, it is best to check with your provider before using these products.
Don’t Abruptly Stop Taking The Medication
Even if you feel well, do not stop taking your medication without first talking to your doctor. Ending your medicine regimen abruptly can cause your blood pressure to spike.
Drug Interactions
Candesartan can interact with other substances, which may change how the medicine works or increase the risk of side effects. For example:
- NSAIDs: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve) can interfere with candesartan. Taking NSAIDs and candesartan together may reduce candesartan’s blood pressure-lowering effect and increase the risk of kidney damage.
- Potassium supplements: Because candesartan helps the body hold onto potassium, taking supplements that contain potassium can lead to dangerously high levels.
- Lithium: Candesartan can increase the amount of lithium in your blood. Taking lithium while on candesartan may increase blood lithium to toxic levels.
- Other blood pressure drugs: Taking multiple heart medications together requires careful monitoring by a healthcare professional, because together, they could lower blood pressure too much.
- Alcohol: Drinking alcohol can lower blood pressure and worsen dizziness or lightheadedness when combined with blood pressure medicine like candesartan.
Always give your doctor and pharmacist a complete list of all your medications, vitamins, and supplements to check for potential interactions.
FAQs
What is the best time of day to take my candesartan pill?
You can take candesartan at any time, but it is best to take it at the same time every day. Many people choose the morning so they do not forget. If you feel dizzy after taking it, your doctor may suggest taking it at bedtime.
How long does it take for my blood pressure to actually start going down?
Most people see a decrease in blood pressure within 6 hours of the first dose. However, it can take 2 to 4 weeks of consistent use to see the full benefits.
Will candesartan make me gain weight or feel bloated?
Weight gain is not a common side effect of candesartan. If you notice sudden weight gain or swelling in your ankles, contact your doctor.
Is it normal to feel dizzy or lightheaded when I stand up after starting candesartan?
Yes, slight dizziness or lightheadedness after standing while on candesartan is common. It happens because your blood pressure is lower than it used to be. The feeling usually goes away once your body gets used to the medicine.
Can I safely drink alcohol while taking candesartan?
While not strictly forbidden, alcohol can increase the risk of dizziness. It is best to be cautious and speak with your provider about what is safe for you before drinking alcohol while on candesartan.
Why did my doctor tell me to stop taking Advil or Aleve for my headaches after starting candesartan?
Advil and Aleve are NSAIDs, a type of over-the-counter pain reliever that can make candesartan less effective. NSAIDs can also put extra strain on your kidneys when taken with an ARB medication like candesartan.
Do I have to take candesartan with a meal?
No, you can take candesartan with or without food. If taking the pill alone upsets your stomach, taking it with food may help.
Is there a difference between the brand name Atacand and generic candesartan?
Generic candesartan is therapeutically equivalent to Atacand. This means it has the same active ingredient and works the same way in the body.
Can candesartan help prevent migraines, even though it’s a blood pressure pill?
Yes, some doctors prescribe candesartan off-label for migraine prevention. Research shows it can help reduce how often migraines occur.
Is it safe to take candesartan if I am currently pregnant or trying to get pregnant?
No. Candesartan can cause serious harm or death to a developing fetus. If you become pregnant while taking candesartan, contact your doctor immediately.
Can taking candesartan cause erectile dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction is not a common side effect of ARBs like candesartan. In fact, some studies suggest ARBs are less likely to cause this issue than other types of blood pressure medications.
Will I have to take candesartan for blood pressure medicine for the rest of my life?
Whether or not you are prescribed candesartan for life depends on what condition the medication is being prescribed for, and if that condition persists over time. Many people take this medication long-term to keep their heart and kidneys healthy, but in some instances, lifestyle changes can alter the need for medication.
Comparable Medications
Losartan (Cozaar), Valsartan (Diovan), Ramipril (Altace), Hydrochlorothiazide/HCTZ (Microzide), or Metoprolol (Lopressor)?
There are several medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of candesartan. Here are a few possible alternatives below.
Losartan
From $22.99
An angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used to treat high blood pressure and protect the kidneys in people with type 2 diabetes. It is a common alternative to candesartan.
Valsartan
From $24.99
Another medication in the ARB class used for blood pressure and heart failure. It is often used to improve survival after a heart attack.
Ramipril Capsules
From $24.99
An angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It lowers blood pressure but works slightly differently than an ARB. It is sometimes associated with a dry cough.
Hydrochlorothiazide
From $22.99
A diuretic, or "water pill." It helps the body get rid of extra salt and water to lower blood pressure. It is sometimes used in combination with candesartan.
Metoprolol Tartrate
From $22.99
A beta blocker that works by slowing the heart rate and reducing the force of the heart's contractions. It is used for high blood pressure and chest pain.
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Important: Information on this page is for educational purposes only. Prescribing decisions are made by independent, licensed providers. TelyRx operates technology-enabled pharmacies and a telehealth platform that connects patients with board-certified licensed providers. Prescriptions, when provider-approved and issued, are filled and shipped by TelyRx-affiliated pharmacies. We do not employ physicians or make prescribing decisions. Learn more about our editorial standards here.