Angizaar-H Tab

Description

Angizaar-H is a widely used prescription medication specifically formulated to manage hypertension (high blood pressure). It is a combination drug that leverages the synergistic effects of two distinct classes of antihypertensive agents:

1. Losartan (an Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker – ARB): Losartan works by selectively blocking the action of angiotensin II, a powerful hormone in the body that causes blood vessels to constrict and narrow. By preventing angiotensin II from binding to its receptors, losartan helps to relax and widen blood vessels. This vasodilation reduces the resistance to blood flow, thereby lowering blood pressure and making it easier for the heart to pump blood throughout the body. Losartan is also known for its ability to protect the kidneys from damage, especially in patients with diabetes and high blood pressure.

2. Hydrochlorothiazide (a Thiazide Diuretic – “Water Pill”): Hydrochlorothiazide primarily works on the kidneys to increase the excretion of excess salt (sodium) and water from the body through urine. This reduction in fluid volume within the blood vessels directly contributes to lowering blood pressure. Additionally, over time, diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide can also have a relaxing effect on blood vessels, further aiding in blood pressure control.

Mechanism of Action Combined: The combination of losartan and hydrochlorothiazide in Angizaar-H provides a comprehensive approach to blood pressure management. Losartan addresses the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), a key regulator of blood pressure, while hydrochlorothiazide targets fluid balance. This dual mechanism often proves more effective than monotherapy (using a single drug) for patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled by one medication alone.

Specific Medical Uses:

• Essential Hypertension: The primary indication for Angizaar-H is the long-term management of high blood pressure. By consistently lowering blood pressure, it significantly reduces the risk of serious cardiovascular complications.
• Reduction of Cardiovascular Risk: For patients with hypertension, especially those with left ventricular hypertrophy (enlarged heart muscle), Angizaar-H helps to reduce the incidence of major cardiovascular events such as stroke and myocardial infarction (heart attack).
• Diabetic Nephropathy: It is also used to slow the progression of kidney disease in patients with type 2 diabetes and hypertension, particularly if they have proteinuria (excess protein in urine).
• Oedema Management: Due to the diuretic component, Angizaar-H can help manage fluid retention (oedema) associated with conditions like heart failure, liver cirrhosis, and certain kidney diseases.

Dosage and Administration: Angizaar-H is typically taken orally, once daily, with or without food. The exact dosage will be determined by a healthcare professional based on the individual’s blood pressure response, underlying medical conditions, and tolerance to the medication. It’s crucial to take the tablet whole, without crushing or chewing it, and to maintain a consistent dosing schedule. Patients should never stop taking Angizaar-H suddenly without consulting their doctor, as this can lead to a dangerous rebound in blood pressure.

Potential Side Effects: While generally well-tolerated, Angizaar-H can cause side effects. Common side effects often include:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness (especially when standing up quickly)
• Fatigue or tiredness
• Nausea and diarrhea
• Back pain
• Upper respiratory infections
• Cough (less common than with ACE inhibitors)

More serious, but less common, side effects can include:

• Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., low potassium, low sodium, high uric acid, high or low magnesium)
• Kidney problems (evidenced by reduced urine output or swelling)
• Severe allergic reactions (rash, swelling of face/lips/tongue/throat, difficulty breathing)
• Changes in blood sugar levels
• Acute myopia or acute angle-closure glaucoma (rare, but requires immediate medical attention if visual changes or eye pain occur)

Precautions and Warnings:

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Angizaar-H is contraindicated during pregnancy, particularly in the second and third trimesters, as it can cause serious harm or even death to the fetus. It is also generally not recommended during breastfeeding.
• Kidney and Liver Impairment: Caution is advised in patients with pre-existing kidney or liver conditions. Dose adjustments or closer monitoring of kidney function and electrolytes may be necessary. It is generally not recommended in severe kidney disease.
• Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalance: Patients should maintain adequate hydration and be monitored for electrolyte disturbances, especially if experiencing vomiting or diarrhea.
• Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol can exacerbate the blood pressure-lowering effect of Angizaar-H and increase the risk of dizziness, so it should be consumed with caution or avoided.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Due to the potential for dizziness, patients should exercise caution when driving or operating heavy machinery until they know how the medication affects them.
• Potassium Supplements: Patients should avoid potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium, as Angizaar-H can affect potassium levels and lead to hyperkalemia (high blood potassium).
• Drug Interactions: Angizaar-H can interact with other medications, including NSAIDs (like ibuprofen), lithium, other antihypertensives, and certain diuretics. It’s crucial to inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to prevent adverse interactions.
• Diabetes: The hydrochlorothiazide component may affect blood sugar levels, requiring careful monitoring in diabetic patients. Concurrent use with aliskiren (another blood pressure medication) is contraindicated in diabetic patients.

Regular blood pressure monitoring and periodic laboratory tests (e.g., kidney function tests, electrolyte levels) are often recommended to ensure the medication’s effectiveness and safety. Lifestyle modifications, such as a low-sodium diet and regular exercise, complement the treatment.