Avapro (Irbesartan)

Common Use

Avapro contains the active ingredient irbesartan, which belongs to a class of medications called angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) —in simple terms, it works by blocking the action of a hormone called angiotensin II. This hormone normally causes blood vessels to narrow (constrict) and signals the body to retain salt and water, which raises blood pressure. By blocking angiotensin II, Avapro helps:

Widen blood vessels (reduces vasoconstriction)

Reduce the release of aldosterone (a hormone that causes salt and water retention)

Decrease activity of the sympathetic nervous system (the “fight or flight” response)

As a result, Avapro lowers blood pressure and reduces the workload on the heart, allowing it to pump blood more efficiently.

Avapro is used to treat:

Hypertension (high blood pressure) – by lowering blood pressure, it reduces the risk of stroke, heart attack, and kidney problems

Diabetic nephropathy (kidney disease caused by diabetes) – in patients with type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, Avapro helps protect kidney function

Avapro does not affect levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, or uric acid in the blood, which makes it a good option for patients with metabolic concerns.

Dosage and Direction

The initial dose for most patients is 150 mg once daily

If needed, the dose may be increased to 300 mg once daily

In some cases—such as patients on a low-salt diet, those taking certain diuretics (water pills), or patients with certain medical conditions—the starting dose should be smaller (usually 75 mg)

Take Avapro once a day, preferably at the same time each day to help maintain consistent levels in your body. You may take it with or without food.

Precautions

Use Avapro with caution if you have:

Kidney failure (renal impairment)

Liver failure (hepatic impairment)

Congestive heart failure

After severe vomiting or diarrhea (which can cause fluid loss and low blood pressure)

If you are taking potassium-sparing diuretics (such as spironolactone) or potassium supplements – these can increase potassium levels in the blood

Pregnancy warning: Avapro can cause serious harm to an unborn baby, and may even cause death, if it is taken during the last six months of pregnancy. If you become pregnant while taking Avapro, stop the medication immediately and contact your doctor. Women of childbearing age should use effective birth control while taking this medication.

Contraindications

Avapro is contraindicated—meaning you should not take it—in the following situations:

Pregnancy – especially during the second and third trimesters

Infancy – safety and effectiveness in children have not been established

Hypersensitivity (allergy) to irbesartan or any of its components

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

Diarrhea

Abdominal pain (stomach pain)

Heartburn (indigestion)

Dizziness or lightheadedness (especially when standing up)

Fatigue

Serious side effects (require immediate medical attention):

Allergic reaction – such as fever, difficulty breathing, hives, swelling of the face or throat

Rhabdomyolysis – a rare but serious condition where skeletal muscle tissue breaks down, which can lead to kidney failure. Signs include:

Muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness

Vomiting

Dark colored urine

Difficult urination or decreased urine output

If you experience any of these serious side effects, call your doctor immediately.

Drug Interactions

No important drug interactions have been described for this medication when taken alone

Potassium-sparing diuretics (such as spironolactone, amiloride, triamterene) and potassium supplements – taking these with Avapro may increase potassium levels in the blood (hyperkalemia), which can be dangerous

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or celecoxib – may reduce the blood-pressure-lowering effect of Avapro and may increase the risk of kidney problems

Lithium – Avapro may increase lithium levels in the blood; your doctor should monitor lithium levels if you are taking both

Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter products and herbal supplements.

Missed Dose

Never take a double dose of this medication. If you miss a dose and it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take extra to make up for a missed dose.

Overdose

Immediate medical help is needed in case of overdose. Symptoms of Avapro overdose may include:

Fast or slow heartbeat (tachycardia or bradycardia)

Dizziness or lightheadedness (due to very low blood pressure)

Fainting

If you suspect an overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

Storage

Store Avapro tablets at room temperature between 15–30°C (59–86°F), away from light and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children.

Disclaimer

We provide only general information about medications, which does not cover all directions, possible drug interactions, or precautions. Information on this site cannot be used for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Any specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed upon with your healthcare adviser or the doctor in charge of your case. We disclaim reliability of this information and any mistakes it may contain. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special, or other indirect damage as a result of any use of the information on this site, nor for the consequences of self-treatment.

About Our Service Cydoctors.com is an online pharmacy based right here in Cyprus. We know that managing high blood pressure and protecting kidney health requires consistent, reliable access to your medication—so we’ve made our service straightforward, dependable, and built with your convenience in mind. Because we’re local to the island, we can arrange delivery in the shortest possible time. For our customers in Nicosia, Limassol, and Larnaca, we’re pleased to offer overnight delivery, so your Avapro can be with you by the next day, helping you keep your blood pressure under control and your heart protected without any unnecessary stress.