Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Edarbi (Azilsartan-medoxomil).
Allergy: People who have had an allergic reaction to other ARBs are advised not to take azilsartan. Before you take azilsartan, inform your doctor about any previous adverse reactions you have had to medications. Contact your doctor at once if you experience signs of an allergic reaction such as skin rash, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face and throat.
Kidney problems: Azilsartan may affect the function of the kidneys, especially for those people who already have kidney problems. Taking diuretics (water pills) such as aliskiren or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Asa (Aspirin) may further increase the risk of kidney problems. If you have reduced kidney function, Kidney Disease, or renal artery stenosis (narrowing of blood vessels in the kidneys), discuss with your doctor how Edarbi (Azilsartan-medoxomil) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Edarbi (Azilsartan-medoxomil), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Liver function: Liver disease or reduced liver function may cause Edarbi (Azilsartan-medoxomil) to build up in the body, causing side effects. If you have liver problems, discuss with your doctor how Edarbi (Azilsartan-medoxomil) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Edarbi (Azilsartan-medoxomil), and whether any special monitoring is needed. Your doctor may want to test your liver function regularly with blood tests while you are taking Edarbi (Azilsartan-medoxomil).
Low Blood Pressure: Occasionally, a larger-than-expected decrease in blood pressure occurs after taking azilsartan. In some cases, this happens after the first dose. It is more likely to occur if you take diuretics (water pills) such as aliskiren, have a reduced salt intake, are on dialysis, or are experiencing diarrhea or vomiting. Blood pressure should be monitored more often in these situations. If you have low blood pressure, are just starting Edarbi (Azilsartan-medoxomil) or are increasing the dose, move slowly from a reclining to an upright position to reduce the risk of dizziness.
Pregnancy: Azilsartan should not be taken by pregnant women as it can cause harm to an unborn child. If you are planning to become pregnant, discuss alternative medications for blood pressure control with your doctor. If you become pregnant while taking Edarbi (Azilsartan-medoxomil), stop taking it and tell your doctor at once.
Breast-feeding: It is not known if azilsartan passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking Edarbi (Azilsartan-medoxomil), it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of Edarbi (Azilsartan-medoxomil) have not been established for children.
Seniors: Seniors may be at increased risk of experiencing low blood pressure from Edarbi (Azilsartan-medoxomil).
