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Candesartan / HCTZ Coupon - Candesartan / HCTZ 16mg/12.5mg tablet

candesartan / HCTZ

Generic Atacand HCT
Used for Hypertension
Used for Hypertension

Atacand HCT is a combination medication used to lower high blood pressure in adults. It contains candesartan (an angiotensin II receptor blocker, or ARB) and hydrochlorothiazide (a thiazide diuretic). This medication comes as a tablet that's taken by mouth, typically once per day. Side effects aren't common, but can include upper respiratory tract infection and dizziness. Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) is available as brand name and generic medications.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Robert Chad Hakim, PharmD, BCCCP
reviewer
Allison Gourley, PharmD
Last reviewed on January 7, 2025
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide)?

What is Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) used for?

How Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) works

Atacand HCT is a combination of two medications that help lower blood pressure in different ways:

  • Candesartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). It lowers blood pressure by blocking angiotensin II. This is a hormone that typically causes your blood vessels to become more narrow, which raises your blood pressure.

  • Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic (water pill). It works in your kidneys to remove extra water and certain electrolytes, like sodium and potassium, from your body. This lowers the fluid in your blood vessels, helping to lower blood pressure.

Are you looking for information on candesartan (Atacand) instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsAtacand HCT
Drug ClassARB / Diuretic (water pill)
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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$122.49(save 78.01%)
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What are the side effects of Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

Other Side Effects

  • Cough
  • Itching
  • Rash
  • Muscle spasm
  • Blurry vision
  • Stomach cramps

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Dangerously low blood pressure: dizziness, lightheadedness, pale skin, feeling faint or fainting
  • Kidney problems: urinating less often than usual, swelling, unexplained weight gain
  • Abnormal electrolyte levels: nausea, vomiting, constipation, stomach pain, tingling sensation, muscle weakness, muscle cramps, low energy, fluttering heartbeat
  • Vision problems: vision changes, eye pain
  • Severe allergic reaction: rash, trouble breathing, swelling of the face, lips, throat

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Less common

Cough

dizziness

dryness of the mouth

fever

increased thirst

irregular heartbeat

lightheadedness

muscle cramps

nausea

sore throat

unusual tiredness

vomiting

weak pulse

weakness

Rare

Arm pain

chest pain or tightness

fast heartbeat

large, hive like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs

trouble breathing

Incidence not known

Black, tarry stools

chills

confusion

lower back or side pain

nervousness

numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or lips

painful or difficult urination

pale skin

persistent non-healing sore

pink growth

reddish patch or irritated area

shiny bump

sores, ulcers, or white spots in the mouth or on the lips

stomach pain

swelling of the face, ankles, or hands

unusual bleeding or bruising

weakness or heaviness of the legs

white, yellow or waxy scar-like area

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Less common

Back pain

diarrhea

headache

joint pain

loss of appetite

muscle aches and pains

runny nose

sneezing

sweating

trouble sleeping

Incidence not known

Blistering, peeling, loosening of skin

decreased interest in sexual intercourse

hair loss, thinning of the hair

hives or welts, itching, skin rash

inability to have or keep an erection

increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight

loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance

redness of the skin

redness or other discoloration of the skin

red irritated eyes

red skin lesions, often with a purple center

severe sunburn

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide)

thumbs-up

Pros

Combines two blood pressure medications in one tablet

Taken by mouth once per day

Side effects aren't common

thumbs-down

Cons

Only available as a tablet

Might take about 4 weeks before seeing maximum benefit

Can't take during pregnancy

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide)

pharmacist

  • You might notice your blood pressure improving right after starting Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide). But it can take up to 4 weeks to see the maximum blood pressure-lowering effects of the medication.

    • Take Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) at any time of day. But you might consider taking it in the morning since hydrochlorothiazide in Atacand HCT can make you urinate more.

      • You can take Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) with or without food. If the medication hurts your stomach, taking it with food might help.

        • Be sure to check your blood pressure at home and write down your readings. Share this log with your prescriber at your follow-up visits. This will help your prescriber see how well Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) is working for you and see whether you need any changes to your treatment plan.

          • Take Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) exactly as prescribed. Don't change your dose or stop taking the medication suddenly without talking to your prescriber first. Doing so can cause your blood pressure to rise quickly. You might need to lower your dose slowly over time before you can completely stop taking it.

            • Stay hydrated while taking Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide). Taking this medication when you're dehydrated can lead to very low blood pressure that might cause you to faint. If you lose a lot of fluids from sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting, ask your healthcare team how much fluids you need to drink to recover.

              • Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) isn't safe to take during pregnancy. If you're pregnant or thinking of getting pregnant, contact your prescriber right away. Your prescriber will likely recommend a different medication that's safe during pregnancy.

                faqs

                Frequently asked questions about Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide)

                What are the main side effects of Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide)?
                In general, side effects aren't very common with Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide). The most commonly reported side effect in clinical studies was upper respiratory tract infections, such as the common cold. This is a typical side effect of ARBs like candesartan in Atacand HCT. Another side effect to look for is dizziness. Dizziness can happen as Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) works to lower your blood pressure. If you experience dizziness, it should get better as you continue to take the medication and your body gets used to your new blood pressure.
                Does Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) cause hair loss?
                Hair loss wasn't a reported side effect in people taking Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) during clinical studies. However, there were some reports of hair loss after Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) was released into the market. But it's unclear whether the hair loss was caused by Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) or other factors. If you notice hair loss while you're taking Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide), contact a healthcare professional so they can help you figure out what might be the cause.
                Can Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) cause constipation?
                Constipation isn't a common side effect of Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide). However, constipation is a potential symptom of dehydration, which is possible from hydrochlorothiazide in Atacand HCT since it's a water pill. Contact your prescriber if you experience constipation. They might recommend drinking more water to stay hydrated or using a laxative that's appropriate for you.
                Can Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) cause dry mouth?
                No, Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) doesn't typically cause dry mouth. But because Atacand HCT contains a diuretic (water pill), you're at risk for becoming dehydrated if you're not drinking enough water or if you're losing body fluids through vomiting or diarrhea. Some people can experience dry mouth if they become dehydrated because the body produces less saliva. If you have dry mouth, let your healthcare team know. They can check to see if you're dehydrated and need more medical attention. Or, they might recommend ways to ease your symptoms, such as drinking more water or using saliva substitutes.
                What foods should you avoid with Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide)?
                There aren't any specific foods that are known to interact with Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide). But if you have high blood pressure, you should eat a nutritious meal that's low in salt to help your condition. It's best to avoid or limit canned foods, processed foods, or pickled foods because these are typically high in salt content.
                Can you take Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) while pregnant?
                No, don't take Atacand HCT if you're pregnant. This medication contains candesartan, which is an ARB. Taking an ARM during pregnancy can cause harm to unborn babies. Tell your prescriber right away if you're pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant because they'll need to switch you to a safer option.
                Is there a generic for Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide)?
                Yes, Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) is available as a generic.
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                warings-icon

                What are the risks and warnings for Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide)?

                Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                risk-warning

                Not for use during pregnancy

                Don't take Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) if you're pregnant. Candesartan in Atacand HCT can cause severe and sometimes life-threatening harm to unborn babies. If you find out that you're pregnant, stop taking this medication and let your prescriber know right away. If you're pregnant before starting Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) or thinking of becoming pregnant during treatment, discuss with your healthcare professional (HCP) about safer options to treat your blood pressure.

                risk-warning

                Low blood pressure

                • Risk factors: Not enough fluid in your body | Receiving dialysis | Having diarrhea or vomiting for a long time | Eating low-salt diet | Taking diuretic medications for a long time | Heart failure

                  Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) can cause your blood pressure to drop too much, which can make you feel dizzy, tired, or lightheaded. This side effect is more common if you're dehydrated from diarrhea or vomiting, or if you have heart failure. Before you start Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide), your care team will check to see if your fluid and salt levels are balanced. They will instruct you to stay well-hydrated to avoid having blood pressure that's too low. Sit down slowly while holding onto something if you feel dizzy from low blood pressure. Let your care team know if your blood pressure drops too much. Get medical help immediately if you fall and hit your head.

                  risk-warning

                  Worsening of kidney problems

                  • Risk factors: Certain kidney problems | Severe heart failure | Loss of water and salt

                    In general, ARBs like candesartan in Atacand HCT can protect the kidneys. But in some cases, they might also cause kidney injury. For example, ARBs might cause harm in people with severe heart failure, a kidney condition called renal artery stenosis (RAS), or are dehydrated. Let your prescriber know if you're having problems with urination, as this could be a sign that your kidneys aren't working as well.

                    risk-warning

                    Changes in electrolyte, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels

                    • Risk factors: Taking other medications that can change electrolyte, blood sugar, or cholesterol levels

                      Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) can affect the level of certain electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, and magnesium in your body. It can also change your blood sugar levels and raise the cholesterol and triglycerides levels.

                      You might need regular blood tests done while taking Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) to check that your electrolyte, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels are within a safe range. Let your care team know about all the medications you're taking because some of them can cause similar changes. Also, tell your care team if you experience an irregular heartbeat, weakness, low energy, muscle weakness or cramps, reduced urination, nausea, or vomiting. These can be signs of electrolyte imbalances.

                      risk-warning

                      Allergic reaction

                      • Risk factors: History allergies or asthma | Allergy to sulfa

                        Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) can cause allergic reactions. Your risk is higher if you have a history of allergies, asthma, or a sulfa allergy, though it can happen to anyone. Let your prescriber know if you have a rash, itchiness, hives, trouble breathing, or swelling in the face.

                        risk-warning

                        Vision problems

                        • Risk factors: History of sulfa or penicillin allergy

                          Although rare, some people experience vision changes or eye pain within hours or weeks of starting taking hydrochlorothiazide, an ingredient in Atacand HCT. Tell your prescriber right away about any vision changes and stop taking Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide), as untreated symptoms could lead to permanent vision loss.

                          risk-warning

                          Lupus

                          • Risk factors: History of lupus

                            Medications containing hydrochlorothiazide like Atacand HCT can cause or worsen lupus. Talk to your prescriber if you have symptoms such as feeling very tired, joint pain, or a skin rash across your cheeks and nose.

                            dosage

                            Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) dosage forms

                            The average cost for 30 tablets of 16mg/12.5mg of Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) is $26.94 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 78.01% off the average retail price of $122.49.
                            tablet
                            Tablet
                            DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                            16mg/12.5mg30 tablets$26.94$0.90
                            32mg/12.5mg90 tablets$60.99$0.68
                            32mg/25mg90 tablets$66.17$0.74

                            Typical dosing for Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide)

                            Your prescriber will determine your dose based on different factors like how high your blood pressure is and the dosages of any blood pressure medications you're currently taking.

                            • Adults: In general, the typical dose ranges from 16 mg/12.5 mg (candesartan/hydrochlorothiazide) to 32 mg/25 mg (candesartan/hydrochlorothiazide) by mouth once daily.

                            interactions

                            Interactions between Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) and other drugs

                            Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                            Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                            Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                            Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

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                            How much does Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) cost?

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                            contraindications-icon

                            Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) contraindications

                            Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) will not be safe for you to take.
                            alternatives

                            What are alternatives to Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide)?

                            There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                            Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide)
                            Used for:
                            $26.94 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                            Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide)
                            Used for:

                            • High blood pressure

                            $17.61 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                            Benicar HCT (olmesartan / hydrochlorothiazide)
                            Used for:

                            • High blood pressure

                            $17.51 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                            images

                            Atacand HCT (candesartan / hydrochlorothiazide) images

                            Peach Round C1 And M X - Candesartan Cilexetil / Hydrochlorothiazide 16mg-12.5mg Tablet
                            This medicine is Peach, Round, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "C1" And "M X".Peach Round C1 And M X - Candesartan Cilexetil / Hydrochlorothiazide 16mg-12.5mg Tablet
                            Peach Oval A Cs - Candesartan Cilexetil / Hydrochlorothiazide 16mg-12.5mg Tablet
                            This medicine is Peach, Oval, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "A Cs".Peach Oval A Cs - Candesartan Cilexetil / Hydrochlorothiazide 16mg-12.5mg Tablet

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                            References

                            Best studies we found

                            Feidakis, A., et al. (2021). Impact of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers on acute kidney injury in emergency medical admissions. Journal of Clinical Medicine.

                            Macleods Pharmaceuticals Limited. (2022). Candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablet [package insert]. DailyMed.

                            National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease. (2014). Renal artery stenosis.

                            View All References (1)

                            National Kidney Foundation. (2023). ACE inhibitors and ARBs.

                            GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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