Avalide

Avalide is a prescription fixed-dose combination medication used to treat essential hypertension in adults. It combines irbesartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), with hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), a thiazide diuretic. The two components provide complementary blood pressure lowering: irbesartan blocks the AT1 receptor to reduce vasoconstriction and aldosterone secretion, while HCTZ promotes diuresis and decreases plasma volume. The combination is intended for patients whose blood pressure remains above target on a single agent and may be used when monotherapy with either irbesartan or HCTZ alone is insufficient.

Avalide is indicated for the treatment of hypertension to lower blood pressure in adults. It may be used as monotherapy or as part of combination therapy with other antihypertensives when needed to achieve target blood pressure. Available strengths commonly include 150 mg/12.5 mg and 300 mg/25 mg, taken once daily. Dosing should be individualized based on response and tolerability, and patients may be escalated from the lower to the higher dose if necessary. Caution is advised in patients with renal impairment, electrolyte disturbances, or dehydration; dose adjustments or discontinuation may be required in certain conditions.

Contraindications include hypersensitivity to irbesartan, HCTZ, or any component of the formulation; anuria or severe renal impairment; significant electrolyte imbalances; and pregnancy or breastfeeding. Avalide should not be used with aliskiren in patients with diabetes or moderate-to-severe renal impairment. Warnings include potential electrolyte disturbances (notably hyperkalemia with ARBs, and hypokalemia with diuretics), dehydration, kidney function changes, and a possible increased risk of gout with HCTZ. Common adverse effects are dizziness, fatigue, and upper respiratory tract symptoms; less common effects can include electrolyte abnormalities and photosensitivity. Generic versions of the irbesartan/HCTZ combination are available in many markets.