What are the Side Effects of Avapro®?

Avapro® is a brand name of a prescription medication called irbesartan that is used to treat high blood pressure by widening the blood vessels to increase blood flow. Patients should be aware, however, that there may be a number of side effects associated with taking the medication, such as those similar to cold symptoms; these usually are mild and will lessen or disappear as the body adjusts to the medication. More serious symptoms are rare but possible and include chest pains, changes in heart rhythm or deep muscle pain. Allergic reactions also are possible, and negative effects of the medication can worsen if a patient has an existing condition such as kidney or liver disease.

Most individuals who suffer side effects from the medication will experience mild ones, including such cold symptoms as a runny nose, fatigue, sore throat, headache and congestion. There may also be the development of a rash or itchy areas on the skin. Some individuals experience gastrointestinal side effects of Avapro®, such as stomach cramps or diarrhea. Others may feel anxious without knowing why, or suffer from dizzy spells. These side effects are generally not serious, but if they continue on a daily basis, a medical professional should be consulted.

Occasionally, there are more serious side effects of Avapro®. An erratic heartbeat or chest pains can be a sign that the body is not adapting to the drug. While a dizzy feeling is common, feeling lightheaded and on the verge of fainting should be reported as a serious side effect. Some individuals can develop swelling in the extremities as a result of starting the drug.

Allergic reactions to the medication occur in some patients, and this may result in the prescription being changed. Some patients may develop hives, or raised red welts, on the skin as well. Swelling in the facial region or in the extremities can also indicate an allergic reaction, and difficulty breathing normally or inhaling deeply is a serious reaction that should be seen to immediately.

Although it is rare, there are some cases with serious, body altering side effects of Avapro®. It has been known to begin breaking down some of the body's skeletal muscle tissue. Signs that this might be occurring include deep seated pain in the body's large muscles. When this happens, it also impacts the kidneys and can result in abnormally colored urine. In other, rare cases, it has been thought to slightly increase an individual's risk of developing certain types of cancer.

Side effects of Avapro® can be made worse by pre-existing conditions such as liver or kidney disease and cardiac conditions, such as congestive heart failure. Making a health professional aware of these conditions can help avoid any potentially serious side effects. It can also have a negative impact on an unborn baby and is not recommended for pregnant women.