This medication is made by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation.
How Does Tekturna HCT Work?
As mentioned, Tekturna HCT contains two different medications, aliskiren and hydrochlorothiazide, which work in the following ways:
- Aliskiren -- Aliskiren is classified as a renin inhibitor. It is the first medication in its class. Renin is an enzyme produced in the kidneys that acts throughout the body. It works to convert angiotensinogen to angiotensin I.
A different enzyme (angiotensin-converting enzyme, or ACE) then converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a powerful substance that increases blood pressure by narrowing blood vessels and indirectly stimulating the kidneys to retain salt.
Many
blood pressure medications work in various steps in this process (such as ACE inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers, known as ARBs). However, aliskiren is different; it acts at the beginning of the process, preventing renin from converting angiotensinogen to angiotensin I.
- Hydrochlorothiazide -- Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic, which is commonly referred to as a "water pill." It works by increasing the amount of salt and water the kidneys remove from the blood. This extra salt and water is then passed out through the urine.
By increasing the amount of water removed from the blood, hydrochlorothiazide causes a decrease in blood volume. This, in turn, can lower blood pressure and help with water retention.
Previous studies have already demonstrated that the two components of
Tekturna HCT can
lower blood pressure when used alone. Specific studies on Tekturna HCT showed that using the two components together was more effective at
lowering blood pressure than when either medication was used alone.
General considerations for when and how to take Tekturna HCT include the following:
- The medication comes in tablet form. It is taken by mouth once daily.
- You should take Tekturna HCT consistently, either with or without food (fatty meals may decrease the absorption of Tekturna HCT). In other words, you should either always take the drug with food or never take it with food.
- Make sure to take it at the same time each day to maintain an even level in your blood.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. It will not work if you stop taking it.
Dosing Information for Tekturna HCT
The dosage your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- How you respond to Tekturna HCT
- Other medications you are taking
- Other medical conditions you may have.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
Side Effects
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with
Tekturna HCT. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well.
If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects of Tekturna HCT include but are not limited to:
(Click Tekturna HCT Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Drug Interactions With Tekturna HCT
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking It?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this product if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medications you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose of Tekturna HCT?
People who take too much
Tekturna HCT may have overdose symptoms that could include:
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Low electrolytes (especially low potassium, chloride, and sodium).
If you happen to take too much of this medication, seek immediate medical attention.
Tekturna HCT tablets should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Tekturna HCT?
If you forget to take a dose of Tekturna HCT, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Tekturna HCT tablets are available in the following strengths:
- Tekturna HCT 150/12.5 mg -- 150 mg of aliskiren and 12.5 mg of hydrochlorothiazide
- Tekturna HCT 150/25 mg -- 150 mg of aliskiren and 25 mg of hydrochlorothiazide
- Tekturna HCT 300/12.5 mg -- 300 mg of aliskiren and 12.5 mg of hydrochlorothiazide
- Tekturna HCT 300/25 mg -- 300 mg of aliskiren and 24 mg of hydrochlorothiazide.
