Avapro and Vitamins: Potential Interactions & What You Need to Know

Drug interactions can occur when a patient takes two or more drugs, including vitamins, at the same time. Studies have shown that vitamins may affect the effectiveness of high blood pressure medicine.

What is Avapro?

• Avapro is the trademarked name for the compound irbesartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker that acts to relax blood vessels.

Useage

• Doctors prescribe this drug for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure). Drug trials, however, indicate it may have a positive effect on diabetic neuropathy in patients who are also hypertensive.

Vitamin Interactions

• Possible vitamin-Avapro drug interaction has not been studied. This medicine does, however, cause an increase in potassium levels. Additionally increasing your potassium level by taking a multivitamin may cause side effects. Consult with your physician to determine if your condition is potassium sensitive.

Side Effects of Avapro

• Side effects include dizziness, upset stomach and heartburn, but these may decrease with time as your body adjusts. Serious but less likely side effects include fainting, decreased sexual ability, impairment of renal functions and muscle weakness/tenderness/pain.

Who Shouldn't Take Avapro?

• Avapro can cause sudden fetal death in the second or third trimester of pregnancy. Anyone who is sexually active and taking Avapro should take precautions to prevent pregnancy. Should you become pregnant consult your physician immediately.