Irbesartan comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It usually is taken once a day with or without food. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.

Take irbesartan exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Irbesartan controls high blood pressure but does not cure it. Continue to take irbesartan even if you feel well. Do not stop taking irbesartan without talking to your doctor.

Although side effects from irbesartan are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

dizziness
cough
diarrhea
upset stomach
vomiting
headache
muscle aches
fatigue
fever
sore throat

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, arms, or legs
difficulty breathing or swallowing
fainting
rash

Consult your doctor before using salt substitutes containing potassium. If your doctor prescribes a low-salt or low-sodium diet, follow these directions carefully.

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your blood pressure should be checked regularly to determine your response to irbesartan.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Irbesartan is used to treat high blood pressure. It blocks the action of certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Irbesartan may also be used to treat heart failure and kidney problems caused by diabetes. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this drug for your condition.

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

Before taking irbesartan,

tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to irbesartan or any other drugs.
tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially diuretics ('water pills'), other medications for heart or high blood pressure, potassium supplements, and vitamins.
tell your doctor if you have or have ever had liver or kidney disease.
tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking irbesartan, call your doctor immediately.
if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking irbesartan.
you should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how irbesartan will affect you.IMPORTANT WARNING: Do not take irbesartan if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking irbesartan, call your doctor immediately