Avapro is used to treat high blood pressure. A member of the new family of drugs called angiotensin II receptor antagonists, it works by preventing the hormone angiotensin II from narrowing the blood vessels, an action that tends to raise blood pressure. Avapro may be prescribed alone or with other blood pressure medications.
In people with type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure, Avapro is also prescribed to stave off damage to the kidneys, often delaying the need for dialysis and a kidney transplant.
You must take Avapro regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be a couple of weeks before you get the full benefit of Avapro, and you must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Avapro does not cure high blood pressure, it merely keeps it under control.
- respiratory tract infection;
- fatigue;
- diarrhea;
ADULTS
High Blood Pressure
The recommended starting dose of Avapro is 150 mg once a day. If your blood pressure remains elevated, your dose will be gradually increased to 300 mg once a day.
If you are being treated with hemodialysis or high doses of diuretics, you'll be started at a lower dose of 75 mg once a day.
Kidney Damage from Type 2 Diabetes
The usual dose is 300 mg once a day.
CHILDREN
For children under 6, safety and effectiveness have not been established. For children 6 to 12 years old, the typical starting dose is 75 mg once a day. If blood pressure is still too high, the dose may be increased to 150 mg once a day. Children 13 to 16 years old are usually given the adult dosage.
