Micardis (telmisartan): a practical guide for people with high blood pressure

Micardis is the brand name for telmisartan, a medicine many doctors use to lower blood pressure. If you’ve been prescribed Micardis, you probably want clear, useful advice: what it does, how to take it, and what to watch for. This page gives straight answers so you can use the drug safely and get better blood pressure control.

What Micardis does and who it helps

Micardis belongs to a group called ARBs (angiotensin II receptor blockers). It relaxes blood vessels so blood moves more easily. That lowers blood pressure and reduces strain on the heart. Doctors prescribe it for high blood pressure and sometimes to lower cardiovascular risk in people with certain risk factors. It’s an option when ACE inhibitors cause bothersome cough or when an ACE inhibitor isn’t suitable.

How to take Micardis — practical tips

Typical adult doses range from 20 mg to 80 mg once a day. Many people start at 40 mg once daily; your doctor will pick the right starting dose based on your blood pressure and other meds. Take it at the same time each day — morning or evening — with or without food. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for the next dose. Don’t double up.

Keep a home blood pressure log for a week or two after starting or changing dose. You may need a follow-up visit or blood tests to check kidney function and potassium levels, especially if you take other medications that affect kidneys or potassium.

Side effects, interactions, and safety tips

Common side effects are lightheadedness, dizziness, and sometimes headache. These usually happen when blood pressure falls too quickly. Serious but rare problems include high potassium (hyperkalemia), significant drop in kidney function, or swelling of the face and throat (angioedema). If you get swelling or trouble breathing, seek emergency care.

Avoid Micardis if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy — drugs in this class can harm the fetus. Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, low blood pressure, or narrowing of the arteries to the kidneys. Also mention if you use potassium supplements or salt substitutes with potassium, lithium, or strong NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) — these can interact or raise risk of kidney issues.

Don’t stop Micardis suddenly without talking to your doctor. If you have symptoms like fainting, fast heart rate, severe dizziness, or rapid weight gain from swelling, contact your provider right away.

Want more reading from this site? Check the article on Ramipril in Elders: Maximizing Benefits and Managing Risks if you’re comparing ACE inhibitors and ARBs. If you need help understanding your prescription or costs, ask your pharmacist or prescriber — and keep your medication list updated whenever you see a new clinician.

This guide gives practical points, not personal medical advice. Talk with your doctor to tailor Micardis use to your health needs and tests.