Atacand (candesartan cilexetil) prescription available online
If you are suffering from high blood pressure (hypertension), Atacand (candesartan cilexetil) can help. Get a new prescription or refill of Atacand from a board-certified doctor online.*
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Treats hypertension, heart failure, and more
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About Atacand (candesartan cilexetil)
Atacand is a type of medication that is considered an angiotensin II receptor blocker. It's used to treat hypertension, heart failure, acute coronary syndrome, and prevent migraines.
Atacand works by blocking the angiotensin II chemical in the body, which is responsible for narrowing blood vessels. By doing this, the angiotensin receptor blocker helps relax the tension in the blood vessels, which enables the heart to pump blood more easily. This reduces physical stress on the heart and lowers the risk of cardiac complications such as heart attacks and strokes.
It's important to note that Atacand is only available by prescription. If you're taking Atacand, make sure to follow your prescription instructions carefully. Depending on the dosage and the time of day you need to take it, the instructions may vary. You can take Atacand with or without food at the same time each day.
It's important to continue taking the drug as prescribed, even if you start to feel better. Complete the full course of Atacand unless your doctor advises you to stop. Incomplete use of Atacand may result in it not fully treating your high blood pressure.
Atacand uses
There are many FDA-approved uses for Atacand, but it may also be used off-label to treat other conditions. Your doctor may prescribe it for any of the following common reasons. It’s also possible that your clinician may prescribe it for other reasons not listed here. If you have questions about why a medication is prescribed, ask your online doctor or pharmacist.
High blood pressure (hypertension)
This medication is used to treat high blood pressure. Your doctor may prescribe additional medications to help manage high blood pressure.
Heart failure
This medication is used to treat heart failure by making your heart pump more effectively and with less strain. Atacand can also protect against myocardial infarction (heart attacks).
Migraine prevention
The FDA has approved Atacand as an off-label use to prevent migraine headaches. Atacand is used among second-line agents to treat migraines.
Atacand side effects
The side effects associated with taking Atacand are typically mild. Some common side effects of Atacand may include:
Dizziness
Stuffy nose
Sneezing
Flu-like signs
You may experience one or a combination of these side effects, particularly when beginning treatment. It is important to tell your doctor if even a mild side effect persists and impairs your lifestyle.
Call a doctor at once if you experience any more serious side effects, such as:Fainting or severe dizziness
Irregular heartbeats
Signs of high potassium levels (nausea, slow heart rate, general weakness, loss of movement)
Little or no urination
Pain or difficulty urinating
Swelling in your feet or ankles
Extreme or unexplained exhaustion
Seek medical attention immediately if you develop signs of an allergic reaction to Atacand such as hives, difficult breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
In extreme cases, Atacand can cause a condition in which the skeletal muscle tissue begins to break down. This can lead to kidney failure, and you should call your doctor right away if you have unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, weakness, fever, or dark-colored urine.
Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:Wheezing
Severe dizziness or passing out
Urinating blood
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any serious symptoms or severe side effects.
How to take Atacand
Your pharmacist will give you guidance on how to properly take your Atacand prescription. It's essential to read the prescription label and adhere to the instructions. If you have any doubts, do not hesitate to contact your doctor or pharmacist for clarification.
Atacand is available in various forms and doses, so it's important to follow the specific guidelines mentioned in your prescription. Generally, it's prescribed to be taken once a day and can be adjusted gradually over two to four weeks by your doctor. You can take Atacand with or without food.
In adults over 18, the initial recommended dosage is a 4 mg tablet once daily, doubled over two-week intervals, until taking a 32 mg tablet once daily is reached. Please keep in mind, these are recommended dosage amounts, and those taking Atacand should always follow their doctor’s specific directions.
Your doctor’s treatment plan for children will vary based on numerous health factors. Atacand is not recommended for those under one year of age.
What to avoid while taking Atacand
Atacand has several drug interactions. Don’t change what you are taking without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications or supplements, as well as over-the-counter drugs.
Interactions may occur between Atacand and any of the following,
Aliskiren
Lithium
Drugs that may increase the level of potassium in the blood (such as potassium supplements, salt substitutes, ACE inhibitors including benazepril or lisinopril and birth control containing drospirenone)
Products for cough and cold treatment, diet aids, or NSAIDs such as ibuprofen may contain ingredients that could increase your blood pressure or worsen your heart failure.
This is not a complete list of all the possible drug interactions with Atacand. It is useful to keep a list of your past and current medications to help your doctor determine what prescriptions are safe for you to use.
It is important to monitor your blood pressure when taking Atacand. Portable blood pressure medical devices are available at all pharmacies and grocery stores.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist if it is acceptable to consume alcohol while taking Atacand. Some research shows that regular alcohol consumption may affect how medications are absorbed.
Medication alternatives to Atacand
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment altogether, they may suggest other angiotensin receptor blockers or an antihypertensive in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:
High blood pressure
Acute coronary syndrome
Heart failure
Migraine prevention
Atacand prescription FAQs
How much does Atacand cost?
Atacand is available anywhere from $2-12 per tablet. The generic version may be available at a lower cost. Price also differs between pharmacies and by insurance coverage. PlushCare members can find the lowest price at nearby pharmacies and save up to 80% on prescriptions with our in-app Rx Price Finder and prescription discount card.
How can I refill my Atacand prescription?
Atacand is only available by prescription, so to get a prescription refill, you will need to see a board-certified doctor. To get started, book a virtual appointment with one of our top-rated board-certified doctors. After a qualifying evaluation, your prescription will be sent to your local pharmacy for pickup.
Who should not take Atacand?
Consult your doctor before taking Atacand if you,
Are on a low salt diet
Have an electrolyte imbalance
Have kidney disease
Have liver disease
If you have diabetes
Do not take Atacand if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Atacan can be lethal to an unborn baby and should never be taken during pregnancy. Consult your doctor about proper birth control for use during the duration of your Atacand treatment.What happens if I miss a dose of Atacand?
If you have a missed dose, take the next dose as soon as you remember. Do not take double doses.
What happens if I take too much Atacand?
Taking too much Atacand can cause adverse reactions and damage to internal organs. If you think there has been an overdose, call your local poison control center or get medical attention immediately.
What are the benefits of Atacand?
Atacand allows your heart to pump with more efficiency and ease by loosening your blood vessels. This can treat high blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney problems. Atacand can also be used to treat adults with heart failure.
What is the drug Atacand used for?
Atacand is used to treat hypertension, heart failure, acute coronary syndrome, and prevent migraines.
What is the difference between Atacand and candesartan?
There is no chemical difference between the two. Atacand is the brand name while candesartan cilexetil is the generic name.
When is the best time to take candesartan cilexetil?
Daily medications like candesartan cilexetil are routinely taken in the morning.
What foods should I avoid when taking candesartan?
Avoid foods with high levels of potassium, salt, and salt substitutes while taking candesartan.
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Step 3
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Atacand prescription pricing details
How pricing works
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Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129.
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
Atacand prescription resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information.
Cleveland Clinic - Candesartan Tablets: "Candesartan Tablets." Accessed on December 20, 2023, at https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/18627-candesartan-tablets.
Mayo Clinic - Candesartan Oral Route: "Candesartan Oral Route - Side Effects." Accessed on December 20, 2023, at https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/candesartan-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20068192?p=1.
FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) - Candesartan Label: "Candesartan Label." Accessed on December 20, 2023, at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2005/020838s022lbl.pdf.
PlushCare content is reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, nutritionists, and other healthcare professionals. Learn more about our editorial standards and meet the medical team. The PlushCare site or any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is the information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.