Aliskiren-HCTZ Drug Interactions
What If I Take an Overdose of Aliskiren-HCTZ?
People who take too much aliskiren-HCTZ may have overdose symptoms that could include:
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Low electrolytes (especially low potassium, chloride, and sodium).
If you happen to overdose on aliskiren-HCTZ, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Aliskiren-HCTZ Be Stored?
Aliskiren-HCTZ tablets should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep aliskiren-HCTZ and all other medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Aliskiren-HCTZ?
If you forget to take a dose of aliskiren-HCTZ, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
How Does Aliskiren-HCTZ Work?
Aliskiren-HCTZ contains two different medications, aliskiren and
hydrochlorothiazide, which work in the following ways:
- Aliskiren -- Aliskiren is classified as a renin inhibitor. It is the first medication in its class. Renin is an enzyme produced in the kidneys that acts throughout the body. It works to convert angiotensinogen to angiotensin I. A different enzyme (angiotensin-converting enzyme, or ACE) then converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a powerful substance that increases blood pressure by narrowing blood vessels and indirectly stimulating the kidneys to retain salt.
Many
blood pressure medications work in various steps in this process (such as ACE inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers, known as ARBs). However, aliskiren is different; it acts at the beginning of the process, preventing renin from converting angiotensinogen to angiotensin I.
- Hydrochlorothiazide -- Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic, which is commonly referred to as a "water pill." It works by increasing the amount of salt and water the kidneys remove from the blood. This extra salt and water is then passed out through the urine. By increasing the amount of water removed from the blood, hydrochlorothiazide causes a decrease in blood volume. Because of this effect, hydrochlorothiazide can lower blood pressure and can also help with water retention.
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