It is made by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation.
Tekturna is classified as a renin inhibitor.
It is the first medication of its kind. 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.
Various
blood pressure medications work during different steps in this process (such as ACE inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers, known as ARBs). However, Tekturna is different; it acts at the beginning of the process, preventing renin from converting angiotensinogen to angiotensin I (the first step in the process).
Studies have also shown that a combination of Tekturna with
hydrochlorothiazide (a diuretic) or with
valsartan (an ARB blood pressure medication) can further reduce blood pressure, compared with any of the medications used alone.
When and How to Take Tekturna
General considerations for when and how to take the medication include the following:
- It comes in tablet form and is taken by mouth once daily.
- You should take it consistently, either with or without food (fatty meals may decrease the absorption of Tekturna). In other words, either always take the drug with food or never take it with food.
- Make sure to take it at the same time each day to maintain an even level in your blood.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. It will not work if you stop taking it.
The dosage your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- How you respond to Tekturna
- Other medications you are taking
- Other medical conditions you may have.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, Tekturna can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects of this drug include, but are not limited to:
(Click Tekturna Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Drug Interactions With Tekturna
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
Talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you have:
- Kidney disease, such as kidney failure (renal failure)
- High blood potassium (hyperkalemia)
- Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose?
It is not known what exactly to expect from an overdose with Tekturna. However, it is predicted that people who take too much will develop low
blood pressure (hypotension).
If you happen to take too much, seek immediate medical attention.
The tablets should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep Tekturna and all other medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Tekturna?
If you forget to take a dose, 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.
Tekturna tablets are available in the following strengths:
- Tekturna 150 mg
- Tekturna 300 mg.
