Atacand® (candesartan cilexetil)
Alternative brand (trade) names: Ratacand
What is Atacand® ?
Atacand contains the medicine candesartan cilexetil and is one of a type of medicines for high blood pressure (hypertension), called angiotensin II receptor blockers.
What is Atacand® used for?
Atacand is used to reduce high blood pressure (hypertension).
How does Atacand® work ?
Atacand works by blocking the action of a hormone (a natural chemical carried in the blood) called angiotensin II:
- It stops angiotensin II attaching itself (binding) to sites (called receptors) found on cells in the body.
- This chemical usually causes blood vessels to become narrowed (constricted) and in the kidney, it causes less urine to be produced so salt and water are retained in the body. These actions may be part of the cause of high blood pressure.
- If angiotensin II can't bind to the receptors because of the action of Atacand, the blood vessels relax and widen and blood pressure decreases.
How is Atacand® given ?
Atacand is supplied as tablets.
It is very important to take medicines for high blood pressure as often as your doctor has told you to, even if you do not feel ill. This is because high blood pressure, if not treated, can lead progressively to diseases of the heart and blood vessels and eventually to serious illness, such as a heart attack or stroke.
It is also important to follow any lifestyle instructions that your doctor has given to you, like trying to give up smoking, reducing your weight, doing more exercise and eating a healthy diet.
Country specific information
To consult your local information.
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