Avalide is a combination medication, containing
irbesartan (
Avapro®) and
hydrochlorothiazide (
Microzide®,
Oretic®), or
HCTZ for short. Each of these medications works to
lower blood pressure in different ways. The irbesartan component belongs to a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor blockers (or commonly "ARBs"). This medicine blocks certain receptors in the body, which allows the blood vessels to relax and improves blood flow.
The hydrochlorothiazide component in Avalide is a diuretic or "water pill." It works by increasing the amount of salt and water the kidneys remove from the blood. This action decreases blood volume, helping to reduce the workload on the heart.
Clinical studies have shown that people who received Avalide had a greater decrease in
blood pressure than people who received either irbesartan or HCTZ alone.
(For more information on what this medication does and how it works, click Avalide. This article provides detailed information on the clinical effects of the drug, potential side effects, and general safety precautions.)
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