Irbesartan — what it does and who it's for

Irbesartan is an ARB — a blood pressure medicine that relaxes blood vessels so blood flows easier. Doctors commonly prescribe it for high blood pressure and to protect kidneys in people with type 2 diabetes who have protein in their urine. It helps lower stroke and heart disease risk when used with lifestyle changes.

It’s prescription-only. That means a clinician should check your blood pressure, kidney function, and current meds before you start. Don’t swap or stop it without talking to your prescriber.

Dosage & how to take irbesartan

Adults usually start at 150 mg once daily. If blood pressure needs more control, the dose can go to 300 mg once daily. Take it at the same time each day, with or without food. If you forget a dose, take it when you remember unless the next dose is close — don’t double up.

People with kidney problems or older adults may need lower doses. Children’s doses depend on weight and need specialist guidance. Your doctor will tell you what’s right for you.

Side effects, interactions, monitoring & safe buying

Common side effects are dizziness, tiredness, and mild stomach upset. Dizziness often happens at first or after a dose increase — stand up slowly. Rare but serious problems include significant kidney changes and high potassium; labs can catch these early.

Irbesartan can raise potassium. Avoid taking potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics unless your provider recommends them. NSAIDs like ibuprofen can reduce its effectiveness and may harm kidney function, especially if you’re dehydrated. Combining irbesartan with an ACE inhibitor or another ARB raises risk of kidney harm and high potassium — usually avoided unless a specialist supervises it.

Pregnancy: irbesartan is not recommended. If you become pregnant, tell your prescriber right away. For breastfeeding, discuss risks and alternatives.

Generic irbesartan is widely available and usually cheaper than brand-name versions. Use licensed pharmacies that ask for a prescription, show pharmacist contact details, and have clear reviews. Avoid sites that ship without prescription checks — they may sell counterfeit or unsafe products. If you use insurance, check prior authorization rules and possible copays.

Simple things help treatment work better: keep a home BP log, cut down on salt, limit alcohol, and stay active. Ask your provider how often to check blood tests — usually within a few weeks of starting or changing dose, then periodically.

Store irbesartan at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children. If you feel faint, notice swelling, severe shortness of breath, or fast irregular heartbeat, get medical help right away.

Questions to ask your clinician: Why choose irbesartan for me? What dose and monitoring will you use? Are there cheaper generic options or assistance programs? Knowing the answers helps you use the medicine safely and get better results.