GoodRx Health

Candesartan (Atacand) is a medication that treats high blood pressure and heart failure. It belongs to a class of medications called angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs).

Candesartan doesn't interact with many other medications, and it's generally well tolerated by most people. Let's discuss six possible candesartan interactions you should be aware of.

1. Medications that raise potassium levels

ARBs, including candesartan, can raise your potassium levels. If you take candesartan with other medications that raise potassium levels, there's a higher risk your levels will become too high (hyperkalemia).

Avoid using candesartan along with other medications that can also increase your potassium levels. This may further increase the risk of hyperkalemia. Supplements and medications that can cause high potassium levels include:

• Potassium supplements, such as potassium chloride (Klor-Con)

• Potassium-sparing diuretics, such as amiloride (Midamor) and spironolactone (Aldactone)

• Certain immunosuppressants, such as cyclosporine (Sandimmune) and tacrolimus (Prograf)

Your healthcare team may decide that the benefits of taking some of these medications with candesartan may outweigh the risks. In this case, they'll likely keep a close eye on your potassium levels during your treatment. Be sure to let them know if any symptoms of hyperkalemia appear. This includes muscle weakness, nausea and vomiting, as well as tingling or numbness.

2. Foods and supplements that raise potassium levels

Medications aren't the only cause of high potassium levels. Certain foods and supplements can also cause hyperkalemia if they're combined with candesartan. This includes:

• Salt substitutes that contain potassium

• Herbal supplements, such as dandelion, milkweed, and Siberian ginseng

• Nutritional supplements, such as a daily multivitamin

It's best to avoid these products if you're taking candesartan unless your healthcare team tells you otherwise. It's also a good idea to avoid eating large amounts of high-potassium foods, such as avocados, lentils, and potatoes. But you typically don't need to avoid these foods altogether, since they contain other nutrients that are beneficial for your health.

3. ACE inhibitors

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are medications that are similar to ARBs. Common ACE inhibitors include:

• Lisinopril (Zestril)

• Benazepril (Lotensin)

• Enalapril (Vasotec)

• Ramipril (Altace)

ACE inhibitors and ARBs treat similar health conditions. And they can both raise potassium levels. If they're combined, there's a higher risk of low blood pressure, hyperkalemia, and kidney problems, without any added benefit. So typically you'll take either an ACE inhibitor or an ARB, not both.

4. Lithium

Lithium (Lithobid) is a medication used to treat mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder. Candesartan can raise lithium levels in the body if they're taken together. This can lead to lithium toxicity, which can be life-threatening in severe cases.

If you need to take lithium and candesartan together, your healthcare team will monitor your lithium levels closely. Let them know if any signs or symptoms of lithium toxicity develop. This includes nausea, tremor, and dizziness. Seek emergency care if you experience confusion, slurred speech, or blurry vision.

5. NSAIDs

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) treat pain, fever, and inflammation. They're available both over the counter and with a prescription. Common examples include:

• Aspirin

• Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil)

• Naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn)

• Meloxicam (Mobic)

• Celecoxib (Celebrex, Elyxyb)

NSAIDs can raise your blood pressure, which can make candesartan less effective. Taking NSAIDs with candesartan can also raise your risk of kidney problems, including kidney failure. This risk is higher if you are over the age of 65 or already have kidney problems.

In most cases, it's best to avoid NSAIDs if you're taking candesartan. Your healthcare team can recommend a safer option for pain or fever if needed.

6. Aliskiren

Aliskiren (Tekturna) is a blood pressure medication. It works in a similar way as candesartan and other ARBs.

Taking aliskiren and candesartan together increases your risk of side effects without any added benefits. The combination is even more risky if you're living with diabetes or kidney problems. So as with ACE inhibitors, it's best to avoid taking aliskiren and candesartan at the same time.

Can you take candesartan and other blood pressure medications, such as amlodipine?

Yes, candesartan is sometimes combined with other blood pressure medications if it isn't effective on its own. This may include a calcium channel blocker, such as amlodipine (Norvasc). Beta blockers, such as atenolol (Tenormin), are another option.

As mentioned, it's best to avoid taking certain blood pressure medications with candesartan. This includes ACE inhibitors, other ARBs, and aliskiren.

Your prescriber will determine the best combination of medications to control your blood pressure based on your medical history.

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