See Alternative Pricing below for savings
Atacand HCT 
Candesartan/HCTZDescription
Generic Name: candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide
Drug Class: angiotensin II receptor antagonist and diuretic
Atacand HCT Indications
Atacand HCT is an oral prescription drug used to manage hypertension or high blood pressure. It prevents complications like heart attacks, strokes, and kidney problems. This oral prescription is also indicated to treat heart failure. This can be given alone or together with other medications.
Atacand HCT Dosage Forms
This is available in Atacand HCT 32 – 12.5 mg, 32 – 25 mg, and 16 – 12.5 mg tablets.
Atacand HCT Mechanism of Action
It blocks the vasoconstricting and aldosterone-secreting effects of angiotensin II by hampering the binding of angiotensin II to angiotensin I receptors in tissues, including the vascular smooth muscle and the adrenal gland. Through this action, blood vessels are relaxed, and blood can flow more smoothly.
In addition, it also directly affects the renal tubular mechanisms of the reabsorption of electrolytes. This action increases the excretion of sodium and chloride in equal amounts. It also helps reduce plasma volume, which increases plasma renin activity, secretion of aldosterone, and urinary potassium loss while decreasing serum potassium.
How to Take Atacand HCT
Before starting to take Atacand HCT, it is necessary to read the information leaflet or medication guide given by a healthcare professional. Ensure that you understand the directions and use of any medication before taking it. Additional information or medical advice can be obtained from your doctor or pharmacist.
It is only recommended to take this tablet by mouth. Atacand HCT is prescribed once a day and should be swallowed whole. You must drink a lot of fluids after. If you need to split this tablet into equal doses, ask for supervision from a healthcare professional.
Make a dosing schedule as it is best to take this medication at the same time each day. If you are prescribed with drugs to lower cholesterol, such as colestipol or cholestyramine, take Atacand HCT four hours prior or four to six hours after these drugs. Do not increase or decrease your Atacand HCT dosage. You should not take this oral medication more frequently than advised, and do not discontinue abruptly to avoid worsening reactions.
Atacand HCT Side Effects
Mild & Common Side Effects:
- Lightheadedness
- Dizziness
- Tiredness
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
- Stomach upset
- Diarrhea
Severe Side Effects:
- Extreme thirst
- Very dry mouth
- Muscle cramps or weakness
- Confusion
- Irregular heartbeat
- Changes in urine output
- Toe or joint pain
- Fainting
- Eye pain
- Decrease in vision
Note that this is not a full/complete list of the side effects of Atacand HCT.
In case of severe or persistent adverse reactions, discontinue medication and contact your doctor.
Warnings and Precautions when using Atacand HCT
Do not take this prescription drug if you have a known allergy to candesartan, hydrochlorothiazide, or any inactive ingredients the tablet may contain. Be aware of any serious allergy symptoms, including trouble breathing, swelling of the face and neck, severe dizziness, swollen lymph nodes, hives, and rashes.
This medication may be contraindicated for people with a history of hyperkalemia, renal artery stenosis, kidney disease, dehydration, gout, lupus, liver disease, or skin cancer. It is also important to discuss all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking since there may be drug interactions.
Candesartan can increase the levels of potassium in the blood. You must look out for signs of hyperkalemia, such as palpitation, muscle weakness, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps. Consult your physician before taking potassium supplements or salt substitutes.
For patients with diabetes, this type of medication can affect their blood sugar levels. You have to monitor your blood sugar while on this medication regularly. Notify your healthcare provider right away if you notice signs of hyperglycemia.
Dizziness and lightheadedness are among the common adverse effects of this ARB. Practice safety caution when doing tasks that need alertness, especially driving. You must also restrict your alcohol intake while on this treatment.
This oral medication can also make you more sensitive to sun exposure and increase the risk of skin cancer. While using this drug, limit your exposure to the sun and avoid indoor tanning. Always wear protective clothing and apply sunblock lotion when going out.
Pregnant moms must not take this type of drug because of the harm that it can cause to unborn babies. For breastfeeding moms, it is unknown if it can pass into the breastmilk. It is necessary to discuss all the possible risks with a healthcare provider.
How much does Atacand HCT cost in Canada?
You may check the Atacand HCT price in Canada on this page. You may purchase this oral drug from this website, or you may also order your prescriptions by phone.
We offer the best deals when you order your prescription drugs from PharmaPassport.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Atacand HCT used for?
Atacand HCT (generic name: candesartan cilexetil & hydrochlorothiazide) is being used to manage high blood pressure. It also reduces the risk of fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular events like stroke and myocardial infarction.
Is Atacand HCT a water pill?
Among the Atacand ingredients is hydrochlorothiazide which is a diuretic. It helps the body get rid of sodium and water, which causes the patient to pee more often.
Is Atacand HCT a good blood pressure tablet?
Atacand blood pressure medication is considered safe and effective. Within one to two weeks of regular use, this medication can help lower blood pressure. You may achieve its full benefits within four weeks of treatment.
Does Atacand HCT affect sleep?
Drowsiness and sleepiness are not among the common adverse reactions to this type of medication. However, this oral drug may cause lightheadedness and dizziness.
What is an alternative to Atacand HCT?
There are a lot of blood pressure medications available, including losartan. Even so, Atacand HCT does not have an exact alternative. If this medication is not working for you, please notify your physician.
Can I buy Atacand HCT online?
Yes, Atacand HCT is available for purchase online. Note that you must provide a valid prescription when you order this drug.