Usage of Irbeloc CT
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Management of essential hypertension, especially in patients not controlled with monotherapy
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First-line therapy in patients with:
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High cardiovascular risk
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Obesity
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Diabetic nephropathy or proteinuria
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Elderly patients with isolated systolic hypertension
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Useful in hypertensive patients with left ventricular hypertrophy
Common Side Effects
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Irbesartan-related:
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Dizziness or light-headedness
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Fatigue
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Hyperkalemia (rare)
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GI disturbances (nausea, diarrhea)
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Chlorthalidone-related:
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Increased urination
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Electrolyte imbalances (hypokalemia, hyponatremia, hypomagnesemia)
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Gout (hyperuricemia)
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Hyperglycemia or dyslipidemia (less common at low dose)
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Precautions
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Renal impairment: Monitor renal function and serum creatinine, especially in patients with bilateral renal artery stenosis
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Electrolyte monitoring: Check potassium, sodium, and uric acid periodically
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Hepatic impairment: Use with caution
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Avoid in pregnancy – Category D (ARBs can cause fetal harm)
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Use cautiously in patients on other potassium-sparing agents, NSAIDs, or lithium
Drug Interactions
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ACE inhibitors or other ARBs: Risk of hyperkalemia and renal impairment
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NSAIDs: May reduce antihypertensive effect and worsen renal function
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Potassium supplements / potassium-sparing diuretics: Risk of hyperkalemia
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Lithium: Toxicity risk increased
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Antidiabetic drugs: Monitor for altered glucose control with Chlorthalidone
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Alcohol or sedatives: Additive hypotensive effect
Dosage and Administration
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Once daily, preferably in the morning to reduce nocturnal diuresis
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Can be taken with or without food
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Do not crush or chew the tablet
Storage
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Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C
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Protect from light and moisture
Patient Counselling Tips
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Instruct to take daily at the same time
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Advise to rise slowly from sitting/lying positions (risk of postural hypotension)
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Monitor for signs of dehydration, muscle cramps, or palpitations
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Advise on regular monitoring of BP and lab tests (renal function, electrolytes)
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Encourage salt restriction and lifestyle changes for optimal BP control
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Avoid OTC NSAIDs or potassium supplements unless prescribed






