Warnings


What may interact with Avalide?

This medication may interact with the following:
-Barbiturates like phenobarbital
-Corticosteroids like prednisone
-Diabetic medications
-Diuretics like triamterene, spironolactone or amiloride
-Lithium
-NSAIDs like ibuprofen
-Potassium salts or potassium supplements
-Prescription pain medications
-Skeletal muscle relaxants like tubocurarine
-Some cholesterol lowering medications like cholestyramine or colestipol

What should I tell my health care provider before I take Avalide

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
-Decreased urine
-Diabetes
-If you are on a special diet, like a low salt diet
-Immune system problems, like lupus
-Kidney disease
-Liver disease
-An unusual or allergic reaction to irbesartan, hydrochlorothiazide, sulfa medications, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
-Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
-Breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using Avalide?

You must visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Check your blood pressure regularly while you are taking this medication. Ask your care team what your blood pressure should be and when you should contact them. When you check your blood pressure, write down the measurements to show your care team.
You must not get dehydrated. Ask your care team how much fluid you need to drink a day. Check with them if you get an attack of severe diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, or if you sweat a lot. The loss of too much body fluid can make it dangerous for you to take this medication.
Women should inform their care team if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child, particularly in the second or third trimester. Talk to your care team or pharmacist for more information.
You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medication affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol can make you more drowsy and dizzy. Avoid alcoholic drinks.
This medication may increase blood sugar. Ask your care team if changes in diet or medications are needed if you have diabetes.
Avoid salt substitutes unless you are told otherwise by your care team.
Talk to your care team about your risk of skin cancer. You may be more at risk for skin cancer if you take this medication.
This medication can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.
Do not treat yourself for coughs, colds, or pain while you are taking this medication without asking your care team for advice. Some ingredients may increase your blood pressure.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.