ADVANTEC 16MG+12.5MG

Advantec Tablets Specification Sheet

Requires Prescription: ✅ YES
Generics: Candesartan Cilexetil, Hydrochlorothiazide
Used For: Treatment of Hypertension

How It Works

Candesartan Cilexetil (ARB):

• Selectively blocks angiotensin II from binding to the AT1 receptor in blood vessels and adrenal glands
• Reduces vasoconstriction and aldosterone secretion, thereby lowering blood pressure
• Unlike ACE inhibitors, it does not inhibit bradykinin breakdown, and thus does not cause dry cough
• Does not interact with other cardiovascular hormone receptors or ion channels

Hydrochlorothiazide (Thiazide Diuretic):

• Inhibits sodium and chloride reabsorption in the renal tubules
• Causes increased excretion of sodium, chloride, and water
• Leads to reduction in plasma volume and blood pressure
• Can cause potassium loss, which is counteracted by candesartan’s potassium-retaining effect

Indication

• For treatment of hypertension
• The fixed-dose combination is not recommended for initial therapy

Dosage

• Based on Candesartan Cilexetil + Hydrochlorothiazide
• To be administered as directed by a healthcare provider

Side Effects

Common:

• Back pain, dizziness, headache, flu-like symptoms, upper respiratory tract infection

Less Common:

• Abdominal pain, urinary changes, increased sweating, unusual thirst, fainting, GI issues, mood changes

Rare:

• Persistent sore throat, cough, fever, fatigue, easy bruising/bleeding, pale skin or jaundice, dark urine, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, joint pain

Drug Interactions

Candesartan:

• Lithium

Hydrochlorothiazide:

• Thiazide diuretics
• Alcohol, barbiturates, narcotics
• Anti-diabetics (oral and insulin)
• Cholestyramine, colestipol
• Corticosteroids, ACTH
• Norepinephrine (pressor amines)
• Tubocurarine (muscle relaxant)
• NSAIDs
• Lithium (increased risk of toxicity)

Contraindications (When Not to Use)

Do not use in patients:

• Hypersensitive to candesartan, hydrochlorothiazide, or any sulfonamide-derived drugs
• With anuria or severe renal impairment
• Taking dofetilide or certain other antihypertensives
• With progressive liver disease (due to hydrochlorothiazide component)

Precautions

• In patients with volume or salt depletion, symptomatic hypotension may occur
• These conditions should be corrected before starting therapy or managed under close supervision

Warnings

1. Candesartan may alter renal function, especially in susceptible individuals (e.g., with heart failure or renal artery stenosis)
2. Hydrochlorothiazide should be used cautiously in hepatic impairment, as fluid/electrolyte changes could trigger hepatic coma
3. Regular monitoring of serum electrolytes is advised to detect potential imbalances (e.g., potassium, sodium)

Pregnancy Category

• ⚠️ Always consult your physician before using, especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding

Storage

✅ Yes — Store at room temperature, protected from direct light and heat