What is Irbesartan?
Irbesartan is an AT1 receptor blocker (Sartan) with a particularly good study position for protecting the kidneys in type 2 diabetes. It is used for treating high blood pressure and diabetic nephropathy.
Irbesartan is available as a generic and under the brand name Aprovel®. It is taken once a day and is well tolerated.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Irbesartan
Irbesartan blocks the AT1 receptor:
Active mechanism:
- Selective and long-lasting AT1 blockade
- Prevents the action of angiotensin II
- vascular expansion and blood pressure reduction
- No activation by liver enzymes required (no prodrug)
**
- Reduces the pressure in the kidney glomerulus
- Reduces protein precipitation (Proteinurie)
- Slows the progression of diabetic kidney diseases
- In the IDNT and IRMA 2 study
Who is it suitable for?
Irbesartan is suitable for:
- Adults with high blood pressure
- Kidney disease in high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes
Especially recommended at:
- Diabetic nephropathy with proteinuria
- Type 2 diabetes with high blood pressure
Not suitable:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Heavy liver or kidney failure
- At the same time with aliens in diabetes
Available Dosages
High blood pressure:
- start dose: 150 mg once a day
- usual dose: 150-300 mg once a day
- Maximum dose: 300 mg daily
Diabetic nephropathy:
- Target dose: 300 mg once a day
Available starches:
- 75 mg, 150 mg, 300 mg tablets
How to Take
Intake:
- Once a day, always at the same time
- Independent meals
- Take with water
**
- Regular blood pressure and laboratory controls
- Monitor kidneys and potassium
- Do not drop abruptly
- Sufficient liquid supply
Contraindications
**Irbesartan must not be taken at:* *
- hypersensitivity to Irbesartan
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- At the same time with aliens in diabetes
Preview at:
- Kidney failure
- Kidney artery stenosis
- Hyperkaliemia
- Dehydration
- Aortenstenose
pregnant: Contraindicated. Can cause severe damage to the unborn.
Possible Side Effects
Acid (1-10%):
- Squeeze
- Orthostatic hypotension
- Hyperkaliemia (in case of kidney failure)
- fatigue
** Occasionally (0,1-1%):* *
- Headaches
- nausea
- Gastrointestinal complaints
- muscle pain
- Chest pain
Selten:
- Angioedema
- Liver malfunction
- Skin reactions
General: Well-tolerated drug. No cough like ACE inhibitors.
Interactions
Contracted:
- Aliskiren in diabetes or kidney failure
Preview at:
- Potassium-saving diuretics → Hyperkaliemia
- NSAR → reduced effect
- Lithium → raised mirrors
- Other antihypertensive → increased blood pressure reduction
** Irbesartan is hardly degraded via CYP enzymes, therefore less interactions with other drugs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is Irbesartan right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.