Telma 80

Indications

• Hypertension: Effective in treating essential hypertension in adults.
• Cardiovascular Prevention: Reduces cardiovascular morbidity in adults with:
  • Atherothrombotic cardiovascular disease (such as coronary heart disease, stroke, or peripheral arterial disease)
  • Type 2 diabetes mellitus with documented target organ damage

Pharmacology

Telmisartan is a non-peptide angiotensin-II receptor blocker. By inhibiting the binding of angiotensin-II to the AT1 receptor, Telmisartan prevents vasoconstriction and aldosterone secretion, thus helping to lower blood pressure. It does not affect bradykinin responses and is highly selective for the AT1 receptor, without interfering with other hormone receptors or ion channels critical to cardiovascular function.

Dosage & Administration

• Starting Dose: 40 mg once daily. Adjust dosage based on individual response, ranging from 20 to 80 mg daily. Maximum effects usually appear within 4 weeks.
• Elderly & Renal Impairment: No initial dose adjustment is needed, though careful monitoring is required, especially in patients on dialysis.
• Combination Therapy: May be used with other antihypertensive agents. Administer with or without food.
• Caution: Not recommended for initial use in patients ≥75 years old or those with hepatic impairment.

Interactions

• NSAIDs: May increase the risk of renal impairment and diminish antihypertensive effects.
• Aliskiren: Avoid co-administration with Telmisartan in diabetic patients.

Contraindications

• Known Hypersensitivity: Contraindicated in patients with a known allergy to Telmisartan or its components.

Side Effects

• Common: Sinusitis, back pain, diarrhea.
• Cardiovascular Risk Reduction: May include intermittent claudication and skin ulcer.

Pregnancy & Lactation

• Pregnancy: Category C (first trimester), D (second and third trimester). Evaluate the need for the medication versus potential risks to the infant.
• Lactation: Consider discontinuing the drug or nursing based on the drug’s importance to the mother.

Precautions & Warnings

• Fetal Exposure: Avoid use during pregnancy due to potential risks.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring required for patients with hepatic or renal impairment.
• Avoidance: Do not combine with ACE inhibitors.

Overdose Effects

Symptoms of overdose may include hypotension, dizziness, tachycardia, bradycardia, elevated serum creatinine, and acute renal failure. Supportive measures and careful monitoring are recommended.

Therapeutic Class

• Class: Angiotensin-II Receptor Blocker

Storage Conditions

• Storage: Keep below 30°C, shield from light and humidity. Store out of reach of children.