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Telmisartan Coupon - Telmisartan 20mg tablet

telmisartan

Generic Micardis
Used for Heart Attack, Heart Failure, Hypertension, Coronary Artery Disease, Stroke Risk Reduction
Used for Heart Attack, Heart Failure, Hypertension, Coronary Artery Disease, Stroke Risk Reduction

Telmisartan (Micardis) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). It's a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure in adults. Telmisartan (Micardis) is also used to lower the risk of death or heart attack in certain people with heart problems. This medication is taken by mouth, typically once a day. Side effects aren't common, but people taking telmisartan (Micardis) have reported ones like upper respiratory infection and back pain.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Ally Tsai, PharmD
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
Last reviewed on March 25, 2024
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Telmisartan (Micardis)?

What is Telmisartan (Micardis) used for?

How Telmisartan (Micardis) works

Telmisartan (Micardis) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). It works by blocking a hormone called angiotensin II. The main role of angiotensin II is to narrow your blood vessels. This then raises your blood pressure and causes your heart to work harder to pump out blood to the rest of your body. So by blocking this hormone, telmisartan (Micardis) relaxes your blood vessels, which lowers your blood pressure and eases the stress on your heart.

Are you looking for information on telmisartan / hydrochlorothiazide (Micardis HCT) or telmisartan / amlodipine instead?
When does Telmisartan (Micardis) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsMicardis
Drug ClassARB
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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What are the side effects of Telmisartan (Micardis)?

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 (cough, sore throat; 7%)
  • Pain in the legs while walking (up to 7%)
  • Skin ulcers (up to 3%)
  • Back pain (3%)
  • Sinus infection (stuffy nose; 3%)
  • Diarrhea (3%)

Other Side Effects

  • Sore throat
  • Flu-like symptoms
  • Indigestion
  • Muscle pain
  • Urinary tract infection
  • Belly pain
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Pain
  • Feeling tired
  • Cough
  • Chest pain
  • Nausea
  • Swelling in the arms and legs

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
  • Severely low blood pressure: lightheadedness, dizziness, feeling faint, tiredness, confusion

Source: DailyMed

More on Telmisartan (Micardis) side effects

telmisartan: side effects telmisartan

8 Telmisartan (Micardis) Side Effects You Should Know About

Written by Patricia Weiser, PharmD

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

Changes in vision

dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting

fast heartbeat

large hives

painful urination or changes in urinary frequency

swelling in the hands, lower legs, and feet

Incidence not known

Blurred vision

chest pain or discomfort

confusion

dark-colored urine

decreased urine output

dilated neck veins

extreme fatigue

flushing

hives or welts

hoarseness

irregular breathing

irritation

itching

joint pain, stiffness, or swelling

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

muscle cramps or stiffness

numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or lips

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

pounding in the ears

rash

redness of the skin

slow, fast, or irregular heartbeat

sweating

swelling of the eyelids, face, or lips

tightness in the chest

trouble breathing or swallowing

trouble with speaking or walking

trouble with thinking

unusual tiredness or weakness

unusually warm skin

weakness or heaviness of the legs

weakness, numbness, or tingling in the arms or legs

weight gain

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

Abdominal or stomach pain

back pain

bloating or gas

changes in appetite

coughing

diarrhea

dry mouth

ear pain or hearing problems

fever

general tiredness or weakness

headache

heartburn

increased sweating

muscle pain or spasm

nausea

nervousness

runny or stuffy nose

sneezing

sore throat

Incidence not known

Acid or sour stomach

belching

decreased interest in sexual intercourse

difficulty with moving

inability to have or keep an erection

indigestion

joint pain

lack or loss of strength

leg cramps

loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance

muscle aching

stomach discomfort or upset

swelling

weakness

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 Telmisartan (Micardis)

thumbs-up

Pros

Available as a lower-cost generic medication

Typically taken once a day

Lowers the risk of heart attack or death due to heart problems in people with CAD

Less likely to cause dry cough compared to ACE inhibitors

thumbs-down

Cons

Can’t take while pregnant

Might require regular blood work and lab tests to make sure your kidneys are functioning normally

Not safe for use in children

Can take up to 4 weeks to see the full effect on high blood pressure

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Telmisartan (Micardis)

pharmacist

  • You can keep track of how well telmisartan (Micardis) is working to control your blood pressure by checking your blood pressure regularly at home. Write down your blood pressure readings, and bring them to your appointments with your primary care provider so you can discuss how well telmisartan (Micardis) is working for you.

    • Telmisartan (Micardis) works to lower your blood pressure, but this can cause dizziness and lightheadedness. You're more likely to feel dizzy or lightheaded during the first few days and if you're suddenly standing up from a sitting or lying down position. Make sure to get up slowly. Tell your primary care provider if you experience fainting or dizziness while taking this medication.

      • Mark your calendar with your appointments to see your primary care provider and to get any blood work done when you take telmisartan (Micardis). Your primary care provider might order tests to check your potassium levels and kidney health during treatment. Based on your lab results and your blood pressure readings, they might change your dose to make sure the medication is safe and working well for you.

        • Remember to drink enough water to stay hydrated while you're taking telmisartan (Micardis), especially on hot days or after exercising. Dehydration can put you at risk for very low blood pressure, dizziness, and falls. In addition, not having enough fluids in your body might raise your risk of kidney damage during treatment with this medication.

          • Don't take telmisartan (Micardis) if you're pregnant or nursing since it can cause harm to your baby. If you're pregnant or thinking of getting pregnant during treatment, contact your primary care provider right away. Your primary care provider might prescribe you a different medication that's safer during pregnancy or suggest lifestyle changes.

            • Telmisartan (Micardis) can interact with many medications. Let your care team know what medications you're taking, including over-the-counter products and supplements, before you start telmisartan (Micardis). Talk with your care team if you have any questions about interactions with this medication.

              faqs

              Frequently asked questions about Telmisartan (Micardis)

              Is telmisartan (Micardis) a beta blocker?
              No, telmisartan (Micardis) isn't a beta blocker. But rather, it's an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). Both beta blockers and ARBs are medications that can help lower blood pressure, but beta blockers do so by slowing down heart rate, whereas ARBs do so by relaxing the blood vessels. Ask your PCP if you've more questions about the differences between beta blockers and ARBs.
              Should I take telmisartan (Micardis) morning or night?
              Take telmisartan (Micardis) as directed by your primary care provider (PCP). Your PCP might ask you to take telmisartan (Micardis) at a time when your blood pressure is the highest. Or, they might ask you to take this medication at the same time every day, regardless of timing. Either way, the important thing is to take telmisartan (Micardis) regularly. Doing so can help better control your blood pressure, which lowers your risk of heart diseases, such as heart attack and stroke. If you have trouble remembering to take your medications, consider using a pill box to organize your medications.
              How long does telmisartan (Micardis) take to work?
              Telmisartan (Micardis) can start to lower blood pressure about 3 hours after a dose. But most people don't see a more noticeable drop in their blood pressure until after 2 weeks of treatment. And you might need to take this medication regularly for a month before you can experience the maximum benefit. Keep in mind that when you first start telmisartan (Micardis), your primary care provider might need to adjust your dose before finding what works best for you. You can keep track of how well telmisartan (Micardis) is working by checking your blood pressure regularly at home.
              Does telmisartan (Micardis) cause weight gain?
              Weight gain isn't a side effect typically reported by people who take telmisartan (Micardis) after a dose. But if you find yourself gaining weight while taking telmisartan (Micardis), talk with your primary care provider. Unexplained weight gain, especially if you also have swelling in the feet or ankles, might be a symptom of kidney problem. And kidney problems is a rare, but serious, side effect of telmisartan (Micardis) that needs more medical attention.
              Does telmisartan (Micardis) cause hair loss?
              Telmisartan (Micardis) isn't known to cause hair loss. If you're experiencing hair loss during treatment, let your care team know. They can examine you and discuss with you about possible other causes of your hair loss, such as other medications or medical conditions.
              Does telmisartan (Micardis) cause erectile dysfunction?
              Some people who took telmisartan (Micardis) have reported erectile dysfunction, but these cases are very rare. And telmisartan (Micardis) is less likely to cause sexual side effects compared to some other blood pressure medications. Talk to your primary care provider if you're concerned about this side effect.
              How long does telmisartan (Micardis) stay in your system?
              It can take around 5 days for most of telmisartan (Micardis) to leave your body. Keep in mind that this timeframe is estimated based on the half-life of telmisartan (Micardis). It can also depend on what health conditions you might have (e.g., kidney and liver health) and genetics. Talk with your primary care provider if you've more questions about how long telmisartan (Micardis) stays in your system.
              Do telmisartan (Micardis) side effects go away?
              Maybe. Telmisartan (Micardis) doesn't tend to cause too many side effects, but some of the more commonly reported ones include upper respiratory infections, back pain, and diarrhea. It's not clear whether all of these side effects will get better over time, but there are different ways to manage them. For example, you can try to protect yourself from infections by wearing a mask in crowded places or distancing yourself from someone who might have a cold. If appropriate, you might be able to take loperamide (Imodium A-D) to help with diarrhea or acetaminophen (Tylenol) to help with back pain. Talk to your care team if you have more questions about how to manage any specific side effect.
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              What are the risks and warnings for Telmisartan (Micardis)?

              Telmisartan (Micardis) 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

              Taking telmisartan (Micardis) during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy might raise the risk for birth defects, such as kidney problems. Sometimes, this can be fatal to the unborn baby. Because of this potential risk, if you find out that you're pregnant while you're taking telmisartan (Micardis), stop and let your primary care provider know right away. If you're pregnant or are planning to become pregnant, discuss safer treatment options with your care team.

              risk-warning

              Low blood pressure

              • Risk factors: Low fluids in the body (e.g., dehydration) | Low salt levels in your body | People on dialysis | Taking diuretics

                Sometimes, taking telmisartan (Micardis) can cause your blood pressure to drop too much. This can cause you to feel dizzy, tired, or lightheaded. Low blood pressure is more common in the first 2 weeks of starting telmisartan (Micardis) and when your dose goes up. Make sure to stay well-hydrated during treatment. Don't get up suddenly from a sitting or lying down position, since this can cause your blood pressure to drop quickly. If you frequently feel dizzy, lightheaded, faint, tired, or confused while taking telmisartan (Micardis), let your primary care provider know.

                risk-warning

                Kidney problems

                • Risk factors: Severe heart failure | Kidney problems | Taking diuretics

                  Telmisartan (Micardis) can usually improve blood flow to the kidneys, which is good for people with high blood pressure and chronic kidney disease (CKD). But in some cases, telmisartan (Micardis) can make kidney problems worse. The risk is higher for people who have certain medical conditions, such as blockage of the kidney artery or severe heart failure. As a result, your primary care provider might order lab tests during treatment to make sure your kidneys are healthy and working properly. Let your primary care provider know if you're urinating less often than usual, feeling tired, nauseous, or have chills. These can be symptoms of kidney damage.

                  risk-warning

                  High levels of potassium

                  • Risk factors: Diabetes | Kidney problems | Taking other medications that also raise potassium

                    Very rarely, telmisartan (Micardis) can raise the amount of potassium in your body, which can be dangerous. Your risk of developing high potassium is greater if you have diabetes, kidney problems, or are taking other medications that also raise potassium levels. For this reason, make sure your primary care provider knows your full medical history and what medications you're taking before starting telmisartan (Micardis). If you experience signs of high potassium, such as nausea, muscle weakness, or abnormal heartbeat, tell your provider right away.

                    risk-warning

                    Liver problems

                    • Risk factor: History of liver problems

                      In some rare cases, people with a history of liver problems (e.g., blocked bile duct) can end up with a higher amount of telmisartan (Micardis) in their body. This can lead to higher risk of side effects, such as low blood pressure and kidney problems. Make sure to let your care team know if you've a history of liver problems. Your primary care provider can start you at a lower dose of the medication to make sure it's safe for you.

                      More on Telmisartan (Micardis) warnings

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                      Is It Safe to Take ACE Inhibitors or ARBs During Pregnancy?

                      Written by Timothy Aungst, PharmD
                      dosage

                      Telmisartan (Micardis) dosage forms

                      The average cost for 30 tablets of 20mg of Telmisartan (Micardis) is $11.00 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 90.21% off the average retail price of $112.31.
                      tablet
                      Tablet
                      DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                      20mg30 tablets$11.00$0.37
                      40mg90 tablets$26.00$0.29
                      80mg90 tablets$23.00$0.26

                      Typical dosing for Telmisartan (Micardis)

                      • High blood pressure: The typical starting dose is 40 mg by mouth once a day. Your prescriber will adjust your dose according to your blood pressure. The usual dosage range is 20 mg to 80 mg once a day.

                      • Lowering the risk of heart attack and stroke: The typical dose is 80 mg by mouth once daily.

                      More on Telmisartan (Micardis) dosage forms

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                      Telmisartan Dosages for Adults: Your GoodRx Guide

                      Written by Austin Ulrich, PharmD, BCACP
                      interactions

                      Interactions between Telmisartan (Micardis) and other drugs

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

                      More on Telmisartan (Micardis) interactions

                      Pharmacy: drug interaction telmisartan

                      6 Telmisartan (Micardis) Interactions and How to Manage Them

                      Written by Austin Ulrich, PharmD, BCACP

                      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 Telmisartan (Micardis) cost?

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                      contraindications-icon

                      Telmisartan (Micardis) 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 Telmisartan (Micardis) will not be safe for you to take.
                      alternatives

                      What are alternatives to Telmisartan (Micardis)?

                      There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Telmisartan (Micardis). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                      Telmisartan (Micardis)
                      Used for:
                      $11.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                      Losartan (Cozaar)
                      Used for:
                      $9.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                      Candesartan (Atacand)
                      Used for:
                      $30.44 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                      latest news

                      What is the latest news about Telmisartan (Micardis)?

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                      8 Telmisartan (Micardis) Side Effects You Should Know About

                      Learn about common and rare telmisartan side effects and how to manage them.
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                      Telmisartan (Micardis) is an ARB medication that treats high blood pressure. Telmisratan may interact with ACE inhibitors, lithium, and other medications.

                      6 Telmisartan (Micardis) Interactions and How to Manage Them

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                      How Do ARBs Work? Plus, 5 More FAQs About These Blood Pressure Medications

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                      A telmisartan dosage usually starts at 40 mg per day. It may increase up to 80 mg daily, depending on the patient’s treatment progress and health needs.

                      Telmisartan Dosages for Adults: Your GoodRx Guide

                      A telmisartan dosage usually starts at 40 mg per day. It may increase up to 80 mg daily, depending on the patient’s treatment progress and health needs.
                      When you pick up your medications at the pharmacy you may notice that they are typically dispensed in amber colored vials or plastic containers. You may

                      Why Are Certain Medications Dispensed in Their Original Containers?

                      When you pick up your medications at the pharmacy you may notice that they are typically dispensed in amber colored vials or plastic containers. You may
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                      Telmisartan (Micardis) images

                      White Round T And 20 - Telmisartan 20mg Tablet
                      This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "T" And "20".White Round T And 20 - Telmisartan 20mg Tablet
                      White Round 20 - Telmisartan 20mg Tablet
                      This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "20".White Round 20 - Telmisartan 20mg Tablet
                      White Round 036 - Telmisartan 20mg Tablet
                      This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "036".White Round 036 - Telmisartan 20mg Tablet
                      Brown Round 471 - Telmisartan 20mg Tablet
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                      White Round G And 199 - Telmisartan 20mg Tablet
                      This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "G" And "199".White Round G And 199 - Telmisartan 20mg Tablet
                      White Round 312 And Ls - Telmisartan 20mg Tablet
                      This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "312" And "Ls".White Round 312 And Ls - Telmisartan 20mg Tablet
                      White Round 20 - Telmisartan 20mg Tablet
                      This medicine is White, Round Tablet Imprinted With "20".White Round 20 - Telmisartan 20mg Tablet

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                      References

                      Best studies we found

                      Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Inc., USA. (2024). TELMISARTAN tablet [package insert]. DailyMed.

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

                      Shah, R., et al. (2023). Cholestatic jaundice. StatPearls.

                      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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