Irbesartan
Also known as: Avapro, Avalide, Aprovel, Karvea, Arbit, Cavapro, Coaproval
**Guidance for Pet Owners:** * **Administration:** You may give this medication with food or on an empty stomach. If your pet vomits after taking it on an empty stomach, try giving future doses with a small treat or meal. * **Novel Therapy:** Veterinary experience with this drug is currently limited. It is crucial to monitor your pet closely and report any unusual symptoms (such as diarrhea, extreme tiredness, or weakness) to your veterinarian immediately. * **Pregnancy Warning:** **Do not use in pregnant or nursing animals.** This drug can cause severe birth defects or loss of pregnancy. If you suspect your pet is pregnant, contact your veterinarian right away. * **Monitoring:** Your veterinarian will likely need to check your pet's blood pressure and perform blood tests periodically to ensure the medication is working safely.
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- As an alternative to ACE inhibitors for treatment of hypertension associated with renal insufficiency
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Diarrhea
- Dyspepsia (indigestion)
- Fatigue or somnolence
- Orthostatic hypotension
- Dizziness
Cautions & contraindications
- Pregnancy (teratogenic)
- Nursing/lactating animals
- Hypotension
- Uncorrected volume depletion
- Uncorrected sodium depletion
- Hypersensitivity to irbesartan
- **Important Warnings:** * **Hypovolemia/Hyponatremia:** Patients who are volume- or sodium-depleted must have these deficits corrected prior to initiating therapy to avoid acute hypotensive crises. * **Pregnancy Warning:** Irbesartan is highly teratogenic (FDA Category D). It causes fetal abnormalities (renal pelvic cavitation, hydroureter) and increased maternal death/spontaneous abortion. Discontinue immediately if pregnancy is detected. * **Hypotension:** Do not use in patients with pre-existing hypotension.
Drug interactions
- Other antihypertensive agents (e.g., amlodipine, ACE inhibitors): Increased risk of additive hypotension. Use with caution and monitor blood pressure closely.
- Diuretics: May exacerbate volume depletion and increase the risk of severe hypotension.
Frequently asked questions
What is Irbesartan used for in pets?
**Guidance for Pet Owners:** * **Administration:** You may give this medication with food or on an empty stomach. If your pet vomits after taking it on an empty stomach, try giving future doses with a small treat or meal. * **Novel Therapy:** Veterinary experience with this drug is currently limited. It is crucial to monitor your pet closely and report any unusual symptoms (such as diarrhea, extreme tiredness, or weakness) to your veterinarian immediately. * **Pregnancy Warning:** **Do not use in pregnant or nursing animals.** This drug can cause severe birth defects or loss of pregnancy. If you suspect your pet is pregnant, contact your veterinarian right away. * **Monitoring:** Your veterinarian will likely need to check your pet's blood pressure and perform blood tests periodically to ensure the medication is working safely.
Is Irbesartan safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
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