Telmisartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that works by blocking a substance in the body that causes blood vessels to tighten. As a result, telmisartan relaxes the blood vessels, lowers blood pressure, and increases the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart. Telmisartan is available only with a doctors prescription and comes in various dosage forms.
Here are some of the positive and negative side effects of telmisartan:
Positive side effects:
- Lowers blood pressure
- Increases the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart
Negative side effects:
- Sinus pain and congestion
- Back pain
- Diarrhea
- Sore throat
- Flu-like symptoms, such as fever and body aches
- Upset stomach
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Low blood pressure, which may cause dizziness or lightheadedness
- Allergic reaction, which may cause trouble breathing, swelling of the face, throat, or tongue, or hives
- Increased risk for kidney injury or reduced urine production in people with kidney problems or severe heart failure
- Increased risk for faintness or dizziness when taken with alcohol
It is important to tell your doctor if you have any allergies, liver disease, bile duct blockage, high level of potassium in the blood, dehydration, heart failure, or kidney or liver disease before taking telmisartan. If you experience any of the side effects listed above or any other unusual symptoms, contact your healthcare professional immediately.
