About candesartan cilexetil
Angiotensin receptor blocker
Used for
- High blood pressure
- Heart failure with reduced pumping function
Usual adult dose
High blood pressure: usually 8–32 mg once daily. Heart failure: usually starts at 4 mg once daily, increased gradually to 32 mg daily.
Usual dose in children
For high blood pressure, ages 1–17: typically 0.2–0.4 mg/kg once daily, up to 32 mg daily; dosing varies by age and weight.
Common side effects
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Low blood pressure
- High potassium
- Worsening kidney function
Important warnings
- Can harm or cause death to a developing fetus; avoid during pregnancy.
- Monitor kidney function and potassium, especially after starting or changing the dose.
- Low blood pressure can occur, particularly with dehydration or diuretics.
- Not recommended with aliskiren in people with diabetes.
Pregnancy
Can cause fetal injury or death, especially in later pregnancy; discontinue when pregnancy is detected.
Breastfeeding
Information is limited; an alternative may be preferred, particularly for newborn or premature infants.
Interactions
- Potassium supplements and potassium-containing salt substitutes can raise blood potassium.
- NSAIDs, including ibuprofen, may worsen kidney function and reduce blood-pressure effects.
- Lithium levels and toxicity may increase.
- ACE inhibitors, aliskiren, or other potassium-raising drugs increase risks of low blood pressure, kidney problems, or high potassium.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.