Take this medication by mouth on an empty stomach or with a low-fat meal as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. Do not take within 1 hour before or 2 hours after a high-fat meal. Doing so may increase side effects.

Swallow the tablets whole. Do not crush or chew the tablets. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects.

This medication comes in different sustained-action forms with different strengths. Check with your doctor or pharmacist that you are taking the correct dose and form. Do not take a different strength or form without checking with your doctor or pharmacist first.

Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while using this medication unless your doctor or pharmacist says you may do so safely. Grapefruit can increase the chance of side effects with this medicine. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your doctor may gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

Use 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.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse (your blood pressure readings remain high or increase).