Micardis (generic name: telmisartan; also known by brand names Pritor, Kinzal, Telma, Telday, and Teleact D) is a modern antihypertensive from the angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) class. As an ARB, Micardis helps relax and widen blood vessels, making it easier for blood to flow and reducing the workload on the heart.
Used once daily, Micardis provides reliable 24-hour blood pressure control, including coverage during the early morning hours when many people experience a natural rise in blood pressure. For many patients, this around-the-clock effect can translate into steadier readings and improved long-term cardiovascular protection.
Beyond blood pressure control, telmisartan has evidence in certain high-risk patients for reducing the risk of major cardiovascular events when ACE inhibitors are not suitable. Your healthcare provider can help determine whether Micardis is a good option for your specific risk profile and treatment goals.
What Micardis (telmisartan) does and how it works
Micardis selectively blocks angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptors—the receptors responsible for vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels), sodium retention, and sympathetic stimulation. When these receptors are blocked, blood vessels relax, total peripheral resistance falls, and blood pressure decreases.
- Class: Angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB)
- Primary effect: Vasodilation, reduced aldosterone-mediated sodium and water retention
- Onset: Initial blood pressure lowering effect can be observed after the first dose
- Time to maximal effect: Often within 2 to 4 weeks of consistent daily use
- Duration: Approximately 24 hours, supporting convenient once-daily dosing
Telmisartan’s relatively long half-life and strong receptor affinity help maintain a stable antihypertensive effect from dose to dose. Unlike ACE inhibitors, ARBs such as telmisartan do not inhibit bradykinin metabolism, which is why they tend to cause less cough and are better tolerated by many patients who cannot take ACE inhibitors.
Who Micardis is for: indications and expected benefits
Micardis is approved for the treatment of hypertension in adults and can be used as monotherapy or in combination with other blood pressure medications (for example, thiazide diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide or calcium channel blockers). Lowering blood pressure reduces the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney complications when used as part of a comprehensive cardiovascular risk management plan.
In some high-risk patients who cannot tolerate ACE inhibitors, telmisartan has also been shown to help reduce the risk of major cardiovascular events. Your clinician will consider your medical history, other conditions (such as diabetes, kidney disease, and prior cardiovascular events), and your current medicines to personalize therapy.
Recommendations
Take Micardis exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. Consistency is key: take your dose at the same time each day, with or without food. Food may modestly affect absorption, but this is not usually clinically significant; what matters most is regular daily use.
- Typical starting dose: 40 mg once daily
- Dose range: 20 mg to 80 mg once daily, individualized based on blood pressure response and tolerability
- Combination therapy: May be combined with a thiazide diuretic (for example, Micardis HCT) or a calcium channel blocker if additional blood pressure lowering is needed
- Time to benefit: Some effect after the first dose; maximal effect generally reached within 2 to 4 weeks
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual schedule. Do not take two doses at once.
Do not stop Micardis abruptly unless instructed by your clinician. Stopping treatment can lead to uncontrolled blood pressure and higher cardiovascular risk. If you are experiencing side effects or think your dose needs adjustment, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.
Monitoring strengthens results. Keep a home blood pressure log (morning and evening readings, taken sitting and after several minutes of rest). Share these numbers with your clinician at follow-up visits so that your plan can be fine-tuned.
Precautions
Before starting Micardis, tell your doctor or pharmacist about your complete medical history, including all prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Important considerations include:
- Allergies: Tell your clinician if you have had any reaction to telmisartan or other ARBs.
- Kidney health: ARBs can affect kidney function, especially in patients with pre-existing kidney disease or those who are dehydrated. Dose adjustments and periodic lab checks may be needed.
- Liver and biliary conditions: Use caution in hepatic impairment or biliary obstruction. Telmisartan is primarily eliminated via the bile; your provider may opt for a lower starting dose and closer monitoring.
- Electrolytes: ARBs can increase serum potassium. Patients with chronic kidney disease or those using potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, or salt substitutes containing potassium are at higher risk for hyperkalemia.
- Volume depletion: If you are on diuretics, have had recent vomiting/diarrhea, or are dehydrated, you may be more prone to symptomatic low blood pressure, particularly after the first dose.
- Vascular conditions: Use caution in patients with bilateral renal artery stenosis or stenosis to a solitary kidney; changes in kidney function can occur.
- Diabetes and aliskiren: Do not use telmisartan with aliskiren in patients with diabetes. Avoid the combination in kidney impairment as well.
- Pregnancy: Drugs that act on the renin-angiotensin system can harm or be fatal to the developing fetus. Discontinue Micardis as soon as pregnancy is detected. Avoid use while breastfeeding unless the potential benefit justifies potential risk.
- Surgery/anesthesia: Tell your anesthesiologist you are taking an ARB; temporary adjustments may be recommended before procedures to reduce the risk of perioperative hypotension.
Be alert to symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, unusually low urine output, swelling in the face or throat, or muscle weakness. Contact your clinician promptly if these occur.
Possible side effects
Most people tolerate Micardis well. When side effects do occur, they are often mild and transient, especially during the first weeks of therapy. Potential adverse effects include:
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fatigue (most common, often improves as your body adjusts)
- Back pain, sinus discomfort, or upper respiratory symptoms
- Gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal discomfort or diarrhea
- Low blood pressure, especially in dehydrated patients or those on high-dose diuretics
- High potassium (hyperkalemia), which may cause muscle weakness, tingling, or heart rhythm changes
- Changes in kidney function, detectable on blood tests (creatinine, eGFR)
- Rare: Angioedema (rapid swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat); seek emergency care if this occurs
- Rare: Abnormal liver enzymes or liver-related symptoms (persistent nausea, dark urine, yellowing of skin/eyes)
If side effects are troublesome, do not stop the medication on your own. Contact your healthcare professional to discuss dose adjustments or alternatives.
Drug interactions
Certain medicines can amplify or diminish the effect of Micardis or raise the risk of side effects. Always provide your full medication list. Notable interactions include:
- NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen, high-dose aspirin): May reduce antihypertensive effect and increase kidney risk, especially in older adults and those with kidney disease or dehydration.
- Potassium-raising agents: Potassium supplements, salt substitutes, potassium-sparing diuretics (spironolactone, eplerenone, amiloride), and certain antibiotics (for example, trimethoprim) can increase hyperkalemia risk.
- Diuretics and other antihypertensives: Additive blood pressure lowering effects; monitor for dizziness or hypotension when starting or adjusting doses.
- Lithium: ARBs may increase lithium levels and toxicity risk; monitor lithium levels closely or consider alternatives.
- Aliskiren: Avoid combination in diabetes; generally avoid in kidney impairment.
- Digoxin: Telmisartan may raise digoxin concentrations; periodic level checks are advised if used together.
- Alcohol and sedatives: Can enhance dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when initiating therapy.
Monitoring and follow-up
Effective hypertension care is a partnership. In addition to home blood pressure readings, periodic clinical checks help ensure safety and effectiveness:
- Blood pressure and heart rate: At each visit and via home monitoring
- Kidney function: Serum creatinine and estimated GFR, especially after dose changes or when adding interacting drugs
- Serum potassium: Baseline and periodically in patients at risk for hyperkalemia
- Adherence and lifestyle review: Medication schedule, diet, exercise, and stress management
Report large swings in blood pressure, persistently high readings, or symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, edema, severe headaches, or neurologic changes. These may require prompt evaluation.
How Micardis compares with other blood pressure medicines
ARBs, including telmisartan, are often chosen for their strong efficacy and favorable tolerability profile. Compared with ACE inhibitors, ARBs are less likely to cause cough and angioedema. Compared with calcium channel blockers, ARBs typically cause less ankle swelling. Your ideal regimen depends on your blood pressure pattern, co-existing conditions, and how you tolerate specific medications. Many patients do best on combination therapy, such as an ARB plus a thiazide diuretic or a calcium channel blocker.
Lifestyle measures that enhance results
Medication works best alongside heart-healthy habits. Evidence-backed steps include:
- Adopt a DASH-style eating plan: Emphasize vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy; limit saturated fat and added sugars.
- Reduce sodium: Aim for less than 1,500–2,000 mg per day, or as directed by your clinician. Check labels and avoid ultra-processed foods.
- Stay active: Target at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity weekly, plus strength training on 2 or more days, as appropriate for your health status.
- Maintain a healthy weight: Even a 5–10% weight reduction can lead to meaningful blood pressure improvements.
- Limit alcohol: No more than one drink per day for women and two for men, or as medically advised.
- Don’t smoke or vape: Avoid nicotine exposure; seek support for cessation if needed.
- Manage stress and sleep: Practice stress-reduction techniques and aim for 7–9 hours of sleep per night.
Storage and handling
Store Micardis at room temperature, in a cool, dry place away from direct heat, light, and moisture. Keep tablets in their original blister or container until use to protect from humidity. As with all medicines, keep out of the reach of children and pets. Do not use tablets that are chipped, crumbling, or past their expiration date.
Ingredients
Active ingredient: telmisartan.
Available strengths: 20 mg, 40 mg, and 80 mg tablets. Inactive ingredients may vary by manufacturer and country. Review the patient leaflet packaged with your specific product for a complete list of excipients and allergy information.
Additional Information
You can review our website where you can buy aldactone for details about our services and data protection policies. We are committed to responsible dispensing, privacy safeguards, and high standards of patient support. If you have questions about Micardis, medication interactions, or how to coordinate your refills, our team can help you navigate options safely and efficiently.
Micardis dosing nuances and combination options
While many patients respond well to 40 mg daily, some may begin at 20 mg (for example, those at risk for low blood pressure due to diuretics or dehydration) and gradually titrate upward. For patients requiring stronger control, 80 mg once daily may be used. In resistant hypertension, adding a complementary class—commonly a thiazide diuretic or a long-acting dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker—can yield additive blood pressure reductions with good tolerability.
Fixed-dose combinations can simplify regimens. Micardis HCT combines telmisartan with hydrochlorothiazide in a single tablet, potentially improving adherence while targeting different mechanisms of blood pressure control. Your clinician will decide whether a combination product or separate tablets is more appropriate based on your response and side effect profile.
Special populations and clinical pearls
- Black patients: As monotherapy, ARBs may be less effective in some Black patients. Combining with a thiazide diuretic or calcium channel blocker typically enhances response.
- Chronic kidney disease: ARBs can protect the kidneys in certain patients, but initial lab tests may show small changes in creatinine or potassium; close monitoring is essential.
- Heart failure: Telmisartan is not a primary heart failure therapy but may be part of a regimen when ACE inhibitors are not tolerated; the full heart failure plan should be tailored by a specialist.
- Gout: Thiazide diuretics can raise uric acid; if gout is a concern, discuss alternatives or protective strategies with your clinician.
Micardis U.S. Sale and Prescription Policy
In the United States, Micardis (telmisartan) is a prescription-only medication. Federal and state regulations require that a licensed prescriber authorize dispensing after an appropriate clinical evaluation. Importantly, online availability does not change these legal requirements: any pathway to obtain Micardis must comply with applicable laws, ensure medical oversight, and uphold patient safety.
HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital at Martin offers a legal and structured solution for acquiring Micardis without a formal prescription in hand at the time of inquiry. This pathway does not bypass medical review or regulatory safeguards. Instead, it streamlines access by connecting you with licensed clinicians for an expedited evaluation. When clinically appropriate, a valid prescription is issued within the program and your medication is dispensed through authorized channels. Patients therefore do not need to secure a prior in-person prescription from their own doctor before engaging with the service.
Key elements of this compliant process include identity verification, a documented health assessment, medication reconciliation, and eligibility screening for contraindications. If Micardis is not appropriate for you, alternative recommendations or referrals will be provided. For U.S. residents, medications are fulfilled via licensed pharmacies in accordance with state and federal law; shipping and counseling services follow standard pharmacy practice requirements. This approach balances convenience with the safety fundamentals that protect you: appropriate prescribing, pharmacist oversight, and clear instructions for use.
If you reside outside the United States, local regulations may differ. In Canada, the United Kingdom, and other jurisdictions, Micardis remains a prescription medicine, and dispensing must conform to national and provincial rules. Our team will guide you through the steps relevant to your location and ensure that any supply is handled through authorized, transparent channels.
Whether you are initiating therapy or transferring an existing regimen, we encourage you to share your medical history and current medication list so that our clinicians and pharmacists can tailor recommendations. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, or if you have kidney, liver, or endocrine conditions, please alert our team before proceeding so that we can prioritize your safety and recommend appropriate alternatives where needed.
Micardis FAQ
What is Micardis (telmisartan) and how does it work?
Micardis is the brand name for telmisartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). It relaxes blood vessels by blocking angiotensin II from tightening them, lowering blood pressure and reducing strain on the heart and arteries.
What conditions is Micardis used to treat?
Micardis is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, or cardiovascular death in certain high-risk adults who cannot take ACE inhibitors. It is not a rescue medication for sudden spikes in blood pressure.
How should I take Micardis and what is the usual dose?
Most adults start at 40 mg once daily, with a range of 20–80 mg once daily based on response. Take it at the same time each day, with or without food, and swallow the tablet whole unless your prescriber advises otherwise.
How long does Micardis take to lower blood pressure?
You may see some reduction within a few hours of the first dose, but the full effect usually builds over 2–4 weeks. Your clinician may adjust the dose based on your blood pressure readings over that period.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Micardis?
Take it as soon as you remember on the same day. If it’s close to the next dose, skip the missed dose—don’t double up.
What are the common side effects of Micardis?
Dizziness, lightheadedness, and fatigue are the most common. Less often, you may notice back pain, sinus or throat irritation, or mild stomach upset.
What serious side effects of Micardis require urgent care?
Seek help for signs of severe low blood pressure (fainting), high potassium (muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat), kidney issues (very little urine, swelling), or rare allergic reactions such as angioedema (swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat, trouble breathing).
Does Micardis cause cough like ACE inhibitors?
Cough is uncommon with ARBs like telmisartan and occurs far less often than with ACE inhibitors. Many people who develop ACE inhibitor cough can switch to an ARB without the cough recurring.
Can Micardis raise potassium levels?
Yes. Telmisartan can increase potassium, especially in people with kidney disease or those using potassium supplements, potassium-sparing diuretics, or salt substitutes containing potassium.
What monitoring do I need while taking Micardis?
Regular blood pressure checks are essential. Your clinician will also periodically check kidney function (creatinine/eGFR) and electrolytes, especially potassium.
Which medicines can interact with Micardis?
Key interactions include potassium supplements or salt substitutes, potassium-sparing diuretics (such as spironolactone), lithium (levels can rise), NSAIDs (which can weaken BP control and strain the kidneys), and aliskiren (avoid in diabetes). Combining Micardis with other blood pressure drugs can add to the BP-lowering effect.
Can I take NSAIDs like ibuprofen with Micardis?
Occasional, short-term NSAID use may be acceptable for some people, but regular or high-dose use can blunt blood pressure control and increase kidney risk—especially if you’re older, dehydrated, or on a diuretic. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest time, and discuss safer pain relief options with your clinician.
Is Micardis safe if I have kidney or liver problems?
It can be used with careful monitoring in kidney impairment, but kidney function and potassium should be checked. Use caution in liver disease and biliary disorders; discuss risks and benefits with your clinician before starting.
Can children or teens take Micardis?
Safety and effectiveness in patients under 18 years have not been established. Pediatric use should be guided by a specialist.
Is there a generic for Micardis and is it as effective?
Yes—generic telmisartan is widely available and is considered therapeutically equivalent to the brand. Most people do just as well on the generic.
Does Micardis interact with food or grapefruit?
You can take telmisartan with or without food; food does not meaningfully affect its absorption. Grapefruit is not known to interact with telmisartan.
What lifestyle changes help Micardis work better?
Limit sodium, follow a DASH-style eating pattern, maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, limit alcohol, don’t smoke, manage stress, and take your medication consistently. These steps amplify blood pressure control and reduce cardiovascular risk.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Micardis?
Alcohol can amplify the blood pressure–lowering effect and increase dizziness or fainting, especially when starting or increasing the dose. If you drink, do so moderately and avoid binge drinking; see how you respond before driving or standing quickly.
Is Micardis safe during pregnancy?
No. ARBs, including telmisartan, can harm or even be fatal to a developing fetus, especially in the second and third trimesters. If you become pregnant, stop Micardis and contact your clinician immediately to switch to a safer alternative.
Can I use Micardis while breastfeeding?
Data are limited, so other blood pressure medications with better lactation safety profiles are usually preferred. Discuss options with your clinician to choose a therapy compatible with breastfeeding.
Should I stop Micardis before surgery or anesthesia?
Many clinicians advise holding ACE inhibitors and ARBs on the morning of surgery (or 24 hours before) to reduce the risk of anesthesia-related low blood pressure. Confirm timing with your surgical and prescribing teams, and restart when you’re stable and drinking fluids.
What should I do if I become dehydrated from vomiting, diarrhea, or sweating while on Micardis?
If you’re acutely unwell and unable to maintain fluids, you may be advised to temporarily pause Micardis to protect your kidneys and reduce fainting risk. Resume when you’re eating and drinking normally, and contact your clinician if symptoms persist.
Is it safe to drive or operate machinery when starting Micardis?
Until you know how telmisartan affects you, use caution because dizziness can occur—especially after the first few doses or dose increases. Stand up slowly and stay hydrated.
Can I exercise and do hot-weather activities on Micardis?
Yes, but be mindful of heat, saunas, and intense workouts that can cause dehydration and dizziness. Hydrate well, pace yourself, and monitor how you feel.
Micardis vs losartan: which provides better 24-hour blood pressure control?
Both lower blood pressure effectively, but telmisartan has a longer half-life and stronger receptor binding, often providing steadier 24-hour control at trough. Losartan’s effect depends partly on its active metabolite and may be shorter in some people.
Micardis vs valsartan: key differences in use and indications
Both are once-daily ARBs for hypertension; telmisartan has a longer half-life (~24 hours) while valsartan’s is shorter. Valsartan carries FDA indications for heart failure and post–heart attack use, whereas telmisartan is indicated for cardiovascular risk reduction in certain high-risk adults who cannot take ACE inhibitors.
Micardis vs olmesartan: efficacy and gut side effects
Blood pressure–lowering efficacy is similar. Olmesartan has a rare but serious sprue-like enteropathy (chronic diarrhea and weight loss) risk; telmisartan is not linked to this syndrome.
Micardis vs irbesartan: which is better for diabetic kidney disease?
Irbesartan has an FDA indication for diabetic nephropathy in type 2 diabetes. Telmisartan can reduce proteinuria but lacks a U.S. labeling for that specific indication; choice often depends on comorbidities and individual response.
Micardis vs candesartan: heart failure and other uses
Candesartan is approved for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction; telmisartan is not. For hypertension, both are effective, while telmisartan’s longer half-life may give more consistent trough control.
Micardis vs azilsartan: which lowers blood pressure more?
Head-to-head studies suggest azilsartan can produce slightly greater reductions in clinic and 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure at comparable doses. Telmisartan has robust outcome data for cardiovascular risk reduction; both are once daily.
Micardis vs eprosartan: duration and dosing
Telmisartan typically provides reliable 24-hour coverage with once-daily dosing. Eprosartan has a shorter duration and may require twice-daily dosing for some patients; it’s also less commonly used today.
Micardis vs losartan for gout-prone patients
Losartan can lower uric acid levels and is often preferred in patients with gout or hyperuricemia. Telmisartan is uric acid–neutral.
Micardis vs valsartan regarding food and consistency of dosing
Telmisartan’s absorption isn’t meaningfully affected by meals. Valsartan’s absorption decreases with food; it still works, but it’s best to take it the same way each day (always with food or always without) for consistent effect.
Micardis vs other ARBs for cardiovascular risk reduction
Telmisartan carries a labeled indication to reduce cardiovascular risk in certain high-risk adults who cannot take ACE inhibitors. Most other ARBs do not have this specific U.S. labeling, though several have outcome data in various populations.
Micardis brand vs generic telmisartan: is there any difference?
No therapeutic difference is expected. FDA-approved generics must meet strict bioequivalence standards, so most patients can use generic telmisartan interchangeably with Micardis.
Micardis vs candesartan for migraine prevention
Candesartan has evidence and is used off-label for migraine prevention. Telmisartan is not commonly used for this purpose.