Drug
Aliskiren
Pronounced
"a-lis-KYE-ren"
Uses
This medication is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. Aliskiren works by relaxing blood vessels so blood can flow more easily. It belongs to a class of drugs known as direct renin inhibitors.
This drug is not recommended for use in children younger than 2 years due to an increased risk of side effects.
Warning
This drug can cause serious (possibly fatal) harm to an unborn baby if used during pregnancy. It is important to prevent pregnancy while taking this medication. Consult your doctor for more details and to discuss the use of reliable forms of birth control while taking this medication. If you are planning pregnancy, become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor right away.
How to Use This Medication
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking this medication and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. You may take this medication with or without food, but it is important to choose one way and take this medication the same way with every dose. High-fat foods may decrease how well this drug is absorbed by the body, so it is best to avoid taking this medication with a high-fat meal.
Do not take with fruit juices (such as apple, grapefruit, or orange) since they may decrease the absorption of this drug.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Keep taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. It may take 2 weeks before you get the full benefit of this medication.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse (your blood pressure readings remain high or increase).