Indications
Tekturna is a medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults and in pediatric patients weighing 50 kg or greater who are at least 6 years old. Its active ingredient is aliskiren, which is a direct renin inhibitor that works by decreasing the production of angiotensin II, a substance that can cause blood vessels to narrow and increase blood pressure.
Tekturna is contraindicated in patients with diabetes who are receiving angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors) because of the increased risk of renal impairment, hyperkalemia, and low blood pressure.
Uses and Dosage
Tekturna is available in the form of tablets that should be taken by mouth as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily. You can take Tekturna with or without food but choose one way and take the medication the same way with every dose.
The appropriate dosage of Tekturna will depend on your medical condition and response to treatment. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully and not to adjust your dosage on your own. However, the usual recommended starting dose of Tekturna is 150 mg once daily for the treatment of hypertension in adults and children ages six and older who weigh 50 kg or more. If blood pressure remains uncontrolled, the dosage may be increased to 300 mg once daily. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and do not adjust your dosage on your own.
Avoid taking Tekturna with high-fat meals since they may decrease the absorption of the drug. Additionally, do not take Tekturna with fruit juices (such as apple, grapefruit, or orange) since they may also affect the drug's absorption.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Tekturna (Aliskiren):
- Diarrhea
Serious Side Effects of Tekturna (Aliskiren):
- Chest tightness
- Confusion
- Difficulty breathing
- Dizziness
- Feeling unsteady
- Headache
- Hives
- Irregular heartbeats
- Itching
- Lightheadedness
- Little or no urination
- Loss of coordination
- Loss of movement
- Severe stomach pain
- Severe weakness
- Slurred speech
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Tingly feeling
- Vomiting
- Weakness
Form and Strength
Tekturna (Aliskiren) is available in the following forms and strength:
Tekturna: Tablet
- 150 mg
- 300 mg
Caution
- Tekturna can cause harm to a developing fetus, and it should not be used during pregnancy. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception during treatment with Tekturna and for at least one week after stopping treatment.
- In patients with diabetes who are receiving angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors), Tekturna is contraindicated due to an increased risk of renal impairment, hyperkalemia, and low blood pressure.
- Tekturna can cause low blood pressure, especially in patients with renal impairment, volume depletion, or sodium depletion. Tekturna can also cause acute kidney injury, particularly when used with other high-blood pressure medications.
- Tekturna can increase potassium levels in the blood, especially in patients with renal impairment or in patients taking other potassium-sparing medications or supplements.
- Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment: Tekturna should be used with caution in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment, and it should not be used in patients with severe hepatic impairment.
- Tekturna should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment, particularly in those with severe renal impairment or end-stage renal disease. It may not be appropriate for use in patients with a creatinine clearance below 30 mL/min.
- Elderly patients are more likely to experience low blood pressure when taking Tekturna, and they may be more sensitive to the medication's effects.
- Tekturna can increase potassium levels in the blood, and it should not be used in combination with potassium supplements or potassium-sparing medications such as spironolactone.
- Rarely, Tekturna may cause allergic reactions such as angioedema, which can cause swelling of the face, tongue, lips, and throat.
- Tekturna can interact with NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen, which can reduce its antihypertensive effects or increase the risk of kidney damage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Tekturna (aliskiren) safe to take during pregnancy?
No, Tekturna (aliskiren) is not recommended for use during pregnancy. It may cause harm to an unborn baby.
Can Tekturna (aliskiren) be used with other blood pressure medications?
Yes, Tekturna (aliskiren) can be used in combination with other blood pressure medications but should only be done under the close supervision of a healthcare provider.
Can calcium supplements interact with Tekturna (aliskiren)?
Yes, taking calcium supplements can interfere with Tekturna (aliskiren) and other medications used to treat high blood pressure. Talk to your healthcare provider before taking any new supplements or medications.
Can Tekturna (aliskiren) be used to treat other conditions besides high blood pressure?
No, Tekturna (aliskiren) is only indicated for the treatment of high blood pressure in adults.
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