Who can take irbesartan
Most adults aged 18 and over can take irbesartan.
Your doctor may prescribe irbesartan if you've taken other medicines to lower your blood pressure called angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors in the past. You may have had to stop taking them because of side effects such as a dry, irritating cough. Medicines like these include ramipril and lisinopril.
Who may not be able to take irbesartan
Irbesartan is not suitable for some people. To make sure it's safe for you, tell your doctor if you:
- have ever had an allergic reaction to irbesartan or any other medicine
- have diabetes
- have heart or kidney problems
- have recently had a kidney transplant
- have or have recently had diarrhoea or you're being sick (vomiting)
- are on a low salt diet
- have low blood pressure (hypotension)
- are trying to get pregnant, are already pregnant or you are breastfeeding