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Candesartan Coupon - Candesartan 32mg tablet

candesartan

Generic Atacand
Used for Heart Failure, Hypertension
Used for Heart Failure, Hypertension

Candesartan (Atacand) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). It's one of the first-choice medication for treating high blood pressure in adults and children. It can also help lower the risk of worsening heart failure in adults. Candesartan (Atacand) comes as a tablet that's taken by mouth, typically once or twice daily. Most people don't experience many side effects while taking this medication, but some can include upper respiratory tract infections, headache, and back pain.

Last reviewed on June 19, 2024
basics-icon

What is Candesartan (Atacand)?

What is Candesartan (Atacand) used for?

How Candesartan (Atacand) works

Candesartan (Atacand) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). It lowers blood pressure by blocking angiotensin II, a hormone that's naturally found in the body.

Angiotensin II typically raises your blood pressure by squeezing the blood vessels. It also tells your body to release another hormone called aldosterone. Aldosterone raises the amount of water your body absorbs, which also raises your blood pressure.

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

Drug Facts

Common BrandsAtacand
Drug ClassARB
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only

More on Candesartan (Atacand) essentials

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What are the side effects of Candesartan (Atacand)?

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

  • Upper respiratory tract infection (i.e., common cold; 6%)
  • Dizziness (4%)
  • Back pain (3%)

Other Side Effects

  • Sore throat
  • Stuffy nose

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Serious kidney problems: urinating less often than usual; swelling in your feet, ankles, or hands; unexplained weight gain
  • High blood potassium levels: nausea, tiredness, chest pain, muscle weakness, tingling or numbness, pounding heart, nausea
  • Severely low blood pressure: lightheadedness, dizziness, feeling faint, tiredness, confusion
  • Severe allergic reaction: hives; rash; itching; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or 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:

Rare

Arm, back, or jaw pain

bleeding gums

chest pain or discomfort

chest tightness or heaviness

chills

cough or hoarseness

dizziness

fainting

fast or irregular heartbeat

fever

joint pain

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

lightheadedness

lower back or side pain

nausea

nosebleeds

pain or discomfort in the arms, jaw, back, or neck

painful or difficult urination

shortness of breath

sweating

swelling of the feet or lower legs

vomiting

Incidence not known

Abdominal or stomach pain

black, tarry stools

bloody urine

coma

confusion

convulsions

dark urine

decreased urine output

difficult or troubled breathing

general feeling of tiredness or weakness

headache

hives or welts

increased blood pressure

increased thirst

itching

light-colored stools

loss of appetite

muscle pain or cramps

nervousness

numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or lips

pale skin

redness of the skin

skin rash

sore throat

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

swelling of the face, ankles, or hands

unusual bleeding or bruising

unusual tiredness or weakness

upper right abdominal or stomach pain

weakness or heaviness of the legs

weight gain

yellow eyes or skin

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

Ear congestion or pain

head congestion

runny or stuffy nose

sneezing

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 Candesartan (Atacand)

thumbs-up

Pros

First-choice medication for high blood pressure

Works similarly to angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, but with fewer side effects, like cough and swelling

Can be made into an oral suspension for people who have trouble taking tablets

A possible option for children

thumbs-down

Cons

Must be avoided during pregnancy

Interacts with NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Advil)

Can take 4-6 weeks before you notice the full benefit

Can raise potassium levels as a side effect

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Candesartan (Atacand)

pharmacist
  • Take candesartan (Atacand) with or without food at any time of day. If it hurts your stomach, taking it with food might help.

    • You might feel dizzy when you start taking candesartan (Atacand), and when the dose is raised. This should get better over time as you continue taking the medication and your body gets used to your new blood pressure.

      • Make sure to mark your calendar with your appointments to see your primary care provider (PCP) or cardiologist and to get any blood work done when you take candesartan (Atacand). Your care team will order tests (e.g., potassium level, kidney function, blood pressure) during treatment and might change your dose of candesartan (Atacand) based on your lab results.

        • After starting candesartan (Atacand), you'll probably start to notice a drop in blood pressure within 6 hours. But it can take 4-6 weeks to get the full blood pressure-lowering effect of the medication. Your prescriber will adjust your dose of candesartan (Atacand) to find a dose that works best for you. Continue taking candesartan (Atacand) as directed by your healthcare team.

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

            • Eating a healthy diet, including a low-salt diet, while taking candesartan (Atacand) can help control your blood pressure. Ask your care team to help you plan healthy meals, such as ones that include low-fat milk or yogurt, whole-grains, and vegetables.

              • Candesartan (Atacand) can interact with other medications, such as lithium (Lithobid) and other medications that can raise potassium. Make sure to tell your prescriber about all the medications you're taking before starting candesartan (Atacand). Also, don't start taking any new medications without talking to your prescriber or pharmacist first.

                • Let your care team know if you're pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant. Candesartan (Atacand) can cause severe harm to your unborn baby because it can affect how well an unborn baby's kidneys develop and work. Your care team can talk with you about safer medications to take during pregnancy.

                  • Candesartan (Atacand) can pass into breast milk, but it's not clear how this might affect nursing babies. Talk to your prescriber about the risks and benefits if you're breastfeeding and taking candesartan (Atacand)

                    • If you accidentally miss a dose of candesartan (Atacand), take it as soon as you remember. But if it's getting close to the time for your next dose, then skip the missed dose and take your next dose at your regularly scheduled time. Don't take two doses of candesartan (Atacand) at the same time to make up any missed doses because this can cause dangerously low blood pressure.

                      faqs

                      Frequently asked questions about Candesartan (Atacand)

                      Is candesartan (Atacand) a beta blocker?
                      No, candesartan (Atacand) isn't a beta blocker; it's an ARB. While both classes of medications are used to lower blood pressure, they do so in different ways. Beta blockers mainly work by acting on the heart. Candesartan (Atacand) primarily lowers blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels. If you're taking candesartan (Atacand), your prescriber might consider adding on a beta blocker, depending on different factors, like what other medical conditions you have and how high your blood pressure is.
                      Can candesartan (Atacand) be cut in half?
                      Your candesartan (Atacand) tablets can be cut in half if they have a score-line down the middle of the tablet. The score-line is to help you split the pills in half evening. If you'd rather not cut candesartan (Atacand) tablets or if your tablets don't have a score-line, you can ask your prescriber or pharmacist about making an oral suspension for you.
                      What are long-term side effects of candesartan (Atacand)?
                      Many of the more common side effects of candesartan (Atacand) tend to go away once your body gets used to taking this medication. Examples of side effects that get better over time include dizziness, headache, and tiredness. A few studies conducted in the past suggested taking ARBs, like candesartan (Atacand), over longer periods of time might be linked to a small rise in the risk for cancer. But the FDA have done more research since that time and found that taking ARBs long-term doesn't raise the risk of cancer. If you have any questions about a specific candesartan (Atacand) side effect, talk with your healthcare team.
                      Why does candesartan (Atacand) cause back pain?
                      Few people who take ARBs, like candesartan (Atacand), have reported back pain as a side effect. But it's unclear whether the back pain is caused by the medication or by other factors. If you're having back pain, let your healthcare team know. They might recommend that you try to get rest, apply heat or ice packs, or do certain stretches and exercise to relieve pain. If needed, they can examine you to see if you need more medical attention.
                      Can candesartan (Atacand) cause anxiety?
                      No, anxiety isn't a side effect reported by people who took candesartan (Atacand) in clinical studies. In fact, some research suggest that based on how candesartan (Atacand) works in the body, it might lower symptoms of anxiety and stress as an added benefit to lowering blood pressure. If you noticed you feel more anxious after starting candesartan (Atacand), let your healthcare team know. They can talk with you to understand what factors might be causing this.
                      Can candesartan (Atacand) cause constipation?
                      No, constipation wasn't a side effect reported by people taking candesartan (Atacand) in clinical studies. Keep in mind there are many foods and medications that can cause constipation. If you're constipated, talk to your primary care provider. They'll try to figure out what might be causing your constipation. They might also recommend treatment strategies, such as drinking enough water, eating foods with fiber, or taking laxatives.
                      Can candesartan (Atacand) cause erectile dysfunction?
                      No, candesartan (Atacand) isn't likely to cause erectile dysfunction (ED). Certain blood pressure medications, like beta blockers, can raise the risk for ED. But ARBs, like candesartan (Atacand), isn't known to cause ED as a side effect. Your healthcare team might consider candesartan (Atacand) as an option for you if you have ED or are concerned about ED from blood pressure medications.
                      Can candesartan (Atacand) cause leg cramps?
                      Leg cramps weren't reported in people taking candesartan (Atacand). Let your primary care provider know if you have leg cramps so they can investigate the cause and recommend treatment.
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                      What are the risks and warnings for Candesartan (Atacand)?

                      Candesartan (Atacand) 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

                      Harm to unborn baby

                      Don't take candesartan (Atacand) if you're pregnant because the medication can cause severe harm your unborn baby. This medication can affect how well the unborn baby's kidneys develop and work, which can be life-threatening.

                      Stop taking candesartan (Atacand) and let a member of your healthcare team know right away if you find out that you're pregnant during treatment. Discuss with your primary care provider or cardiologist about taking a different medication that's safer to treat your blood pressure if you're pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant.

                      risk-warning

                      Low blood pressure

                      • Risk factors: Not enough fluid in your body | Having diarrhea or vomiting for a long time | Low salt levels in your body | Taking higher doses of diuretic medications

                        Although rare, candesartan (Atacand) can cause your blood pressure to drop too much. This can make you feel dizzy, tired, or lightheaded. Having these symptoms of low blood pressure is more common when you first start candesartan (Atacand) or when your dose gets raised. You're also at risk if you're dehydrated or if you have medical conditions that cause you to become dehydrated, such as too much diarrhea or vomiting.

                        Make sure to stay well-hydrated. Be sure to sit down slowly while holding onto something if your blood pressure drops too much and you feel dizzy. Let your care team know if your blood pressure gets too low or if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, faint, tired, or confused while you're taking candesartan (Atacand). Get medical help right away if you fall and hit your head.

                        risk-warning

                        Kidney damage

                        • Risk factors: Severe heart failure | Kidney problems | Not enough fluid in your body | Taking other medications that can cause kidney damage

                          Although candesartan (Atacand) is sometimes used to protect the kidneys, it's also possible for the medication to affect your kidneys in a way that causes them to not work as well. This can happen to anyone. But the effects can be more serious in people with severe heart failure, people with certain kidney problems, or people who take medications that can worsen kidney function.

                          Your primary care provider or cardiologist might order lab tests every so often during treatment to make sure your kidneys are healthy and working properly. Your care team might recommend that you stop taking the medication if you develop kidney problems (or if your kidney problems worsen) while you're taking candesartan (Atacand). Let your primary care provider or cardiologist know if you're urinating less often than usual, as this could be a sign that your kidneys aren't working as well.

                          risk-warning

                          High potassium levels

                          • Risk factors: Taking other medications that can raise potassium levels | Kidney problems

                            ARBs like candesartan (Atacand) can cause high potassium levels. Your risk is higher if you take candesartan (Atacand) with other medications that can raise potassium, such as spironolactone (Aldactone) or eplerenone (Inspra). Tell your healthcare team right away if you experience signs of high potassium levels, such as nausea, muscle weakness, or abnormal heartbeat. You'll probably need your potassium levels checked. If left untreated, high potassium levels can be dangerous.

                            More on Candesartan (Atacand) warnings

                            dosage

                            Candesartan (Atacand) dosage forms

                            The average cost for 30 tablets of 32mg of Candesartan (Atacand) is $30.44 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 66.31% off the average retail price of $90.34.
                            tablet
                            Tablet
                            DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                            4mg90 tablets$51.60$0.57
                            8mg90 tablets$51.60$0.57
                            16mg90 tablets$53.40$0.59
                            32mg30 tablets$30.44$1.01

                            Typical dosing for Candesartan (Atacand)

                            • High blood pressure:

                              • Adults:

                                • The typical starting dose is 16 mg by mouth once daily. The typical maintenance dose ranges from 8 mg to 32 mg daily total, either taken once daily or split into smaller doses and taken twice daily.

                              • Children (age 6 to 17 years old):

                                • Less than 110 lbs (50 kg): The typical starting dose is 4 mg to 8 mg by mouth once daily. The typical maintenance dose ranges from 2 mg to 16 mg daily total, either taken once daily or split into smaller doses and taken twice daily.

                                • 110 lbs (50 kg) or more: The typical starting dose ranges is 8 mg to 16 mg by mouth once daily. The typical maintenance dose ranges from 4 mg to 32 mg daily total, either taken once daily or split into smaller doses and taken twice daily.

                              • Children (age 1 to less than 6 years old):

                                • Your child's pediatrician will determine the dose for your child based on their body weight. The usual starting dose is 0.2 mg/kg by mouth daily. The typical dose ranges from 0.05 mg/kg to 0.4 mg/kg by mouth daily.

                            • Heart Failure:

                              • Adults: The typical starting dose is 4 mg by mouth once daily. Your cardiologist will slowly raise your dose, usually ever 2 weeks. The typical recommended maintenance dose is 32 mg once daily.

                            Your dose might differ if you have kidney or liver problems.

                            interactions

                            Interactions between Candesartan (Atacand) and other drugs

                            Candesartan (Atacand) 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 Candesartan (Atacand). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                            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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                            contraindications-icon

                            Candesartan (Atacand) 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 Candesartan (Atacand) will not be safe for you to take.
                            alternatives

                            What are alternatives to Candesartan (Atacand)?

                            There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Candesartan (Atacand). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                            Candesartan (Atacand)
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                            images

                            Candesartan (Atacand) images

                            Pink Round Mc 32 - Candesartan Cilexetil 32mg Tablet
                            This medicine is Pink, Round, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "Mc 32".Pink Round Mc 32 - Candesartan Cilexetil 32mg Tablet
                            Pink Round Ml 55 - Candesartan Cilexetil 32mg Tablet
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                            Pink Round 032 And A Cl - Candesartan Cilexetil 32mg Tablet
                            This medicine is Pink, Round, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "032" And "A Cl".Pink Round 032 And A Cl - Candesartan Cilexetil 32mg Tablet
                            Pink Round L171 - Candesartan Cilexetil 32mg Tablet
                            This medicine is Pink, Round, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "L171".Pink Round L171 - Candesartan Cilexetil 32mg Tablet
                            Pink Round Ml 55 - Candesartan Cilexetil 32mg Tablet
                            This medicine is Pink, Round, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "Ml 55".Pink Round Ml 55 - Candesartan Cilexetil 32mg Tablet

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                            References

                            Best studies we found

                            ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (2024). CANDESARTAN CILEXETIL tablet [package insert]. DailyMed.

                            Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®). (2020). Candesartan.

                            Fridman, K. U., et al. (1999). Candesartan cilexetil in hypertension: effects of six weeks' treatment on haemodynamics, baroreceptor sensitivity and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Blood Pressure.

                            View All References (6)

                            Kobori, H. (2013). Angiotensin II Blockade and Renal Protection. Current Pharmaceutical Design.

                            Montford, J. R., et al. (2017). How dangerous is hyperkalemia? Journal of the American Society of Nephrology

                            Saavedra, J. M., et al. (2010). BLOCKADE OF BRAIN ANGIOTENSIN II AT1 RECEPTORS AMELIORATES STRESS, ANXIETY, BRAIN INFLAMMATION AND ISCHEMIA: THERAPEUTIC IMPLICATIONS. Psychoneuroendocrinology.

                            U.S. Food & Drug Administration. (2017). FDA Drug Safety Communication: No increase in risk of cancer with certain blood pressure drugs--Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs).

                            You and Your Hormones. (2019). Angiotensin.

                            You and Your Hormones. (2021). Aldosterone.

                            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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