Avalide combines two proven antihypertensive agents—irbesartan and hydrochlorothiazide—into a single, convenient tablet designed for comprehensive blood pressure management. This fixed-dose combination therapy targets multiple pathways of hypertension through angiotensin II receptor blockade and diuretic action, offering synergistic efficacy for patients requiring more than monotherapy. Clinically validated to achieve significant reductions in systolic and diastolic pressures, Avalide supports long-term cardiovascular risk reduction while maintaining a favorable tolerability profile. Its once-daily dosing regimen enhances adherence, making it a practical choice for sustained hypertension control in appropriate patient populations.

Features

• Contains irbesartan (an ARB) and hydrochlorothiazide (a thiazide diuretic) in fixed-dose combinations
• Available in strengths: 150 mg/12.5 mg, 300 mg/12.5 mg, and 300 mg/25 mg
• Once-daily oral administration
• Bioequivalent to co-administered individual components
• FDA-approved for hypertension treatment
• Not indicated for initial therapy

Benefits

• Provides dual-mechanism blood pressure reduction through RAAS inhibition and volume control
• Lowers both systolic and diastolic blood pressure effectively
• Reduces cardiovascular morbidity and mortality risks associated with hypertension
• Simplifies treatment regimen compared to multiple-pill therapy
• Demonstrates proven efficacy across diverse patient demographics
• Maintains potassium-sparing properties while providing diuretic benefits

Common use

Avalide is prescribed for the treatment of hypertension in patients for whom combination therapy is appropriate. This typically includes individuals who have not achieved adequate blood pressure control with monotherapy using either irbesartan or hydrochlorothiazide alone. The medication may be used as initial therapy in patients who are likely to need multiple drugs to achieve their blood pressure goals. Healthcare providers often consider Avalide for patients with stage 2 hypertension or those with compelling indications that benefit from its specific mechanism of action.

Dosage and direction

The recommended starting dose is one Avalide 150 mg/12.5 mg tablet once daily. dosage may be titrated up to Avalide 300 mg/12.5 mg or Avalide 300 mg/25 mg after 2-4 weeks based on blood pressure response. The maximum recommended daily dose is 300 mg/25 mg. Administration should occur at approximately the same time each day, with or without food. Tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. dosage adjustment may be necessary for elderly patients or those with renal impairment. For patients with hepatic impairment, careful monitoring is recommended.

Precautions

Monitor renal function and electrolytes periodically, particularly in patients with impaired renal function, diabetes, or those taking NSAIDs. Assess blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine levels within weeks of initiating therapy and periodically thereafter. Observe for signs of fluid or electrolyte imbalance including hyponatremia, hypochloremic alkalosis, and hypokalemia. Use caution in patients with severe hepatic impairment. Monitor for hypotension in volume-depleted patients. Periodic assessment of hematologic parameters is advised. Patients with history of allergy or bronchial asthma may be at increased risk of hypersensitivity reactions.

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to any component of this product or other sulfonamide-derived drugs. Anuria. Patients who are hypersensitive to irbesartan or hydrochlorothiazide. Concomitant use with aliskiren in patients with diabetes. Severe hepatic impairment. Pregnancy, especially second and third trimesters. Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with Avalide.

Possible side effects

Common adverse reactions (≥2%) include dizziness, fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, nausea, hyperkalemia, and upper respiratory infection. Less frequent side effects may include orthostatic hypotension, electrolyte imbalance, increased serum creatinine, headache, diarrhea, and cough. Rare but serious adverse effects include angioedema, acute renal failure, hepatotoxicity, pancreatitis, and hematologic abnormalities. Photosensitivity reactions may occur due to hydrochlorothiazide component. Patients should report any signs of infection, unusual bleeding, or persistent cough.

Drug interaction

Concomitant use with lithium increases lithium toxicity risk. NSAIDs may reduce antihypertensive effect and increase renal impairment risk. Potassium-sparing diuretics or potassium supplements may lead to hyperkalemia. Alcohol, barbiturates, or narcotics may potentiate orthostatic hypotension. Corticosteroids and ACTH increase electrolyte depletion risk. cholestyramine and colestipol reduce hydrochlorothiazide absorption. diabetic medications may require adjustment. Dual blockade of the RAAS with ARBs, ACE inhibitors, or aliskiren increases adverse events risk.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered on the same day. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed dose. Patients should maintain a consistent dosing routine and consider using reminder systems if missed doses occur frequently. Consistent adherence is crucial for maintaining stable blood pressure control.

Overdose

Symptoms may include hypotension, tachycardia, bradycardia, dizziness, decreased urinary output, electrolyte disturbances, and renal impairment. Management involves supportive care including gastric lavage if recent ingestion. intravenous normal saline may be administered for hypotension. electrolyte abnormalities should be corrected appropriately. hemodialysis is not effective for removing irbesartan but may help eliminate hydrochlorothiazide. Close monitoring of vital signs, electrolyte levels, and renal function is essential. symptomatic treatment should be provided as needed.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Keep container tightly closed. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after expiration date printed on packaging. Do not transfer tablets to other containers as this may affect stability. Discard any medication that appears discolored or shows signs of deterioration.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting or changing any medication regimen. Individual patient responses may vary. Proper diagnosis and treatment should be determined by a physician familiar with the patient’s complete medical history. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information contained in this document.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate Avalide’s efficacy in reducing blood pressure across diverse patient populations. In randomized controlled trials, approximately 70-80% of patients achieved target blood pressure goals with Avalide therapy. Patients report improved convenience compared to multiple-pill regimens. Healthcare providers note the combination’s synergistic effect and generally favorable side effect profile. Long-term studies show maintained efficacy over 12-month periods with consistent dosing. Some patients report dizziness during initial therapy, which typically resolves with continued use. Overall satisfaction rates remain high among both patients and prescribing physicians.