Azilsartan (Edarbi): Essential Guide To Uses & Dosage
Comprehensive guide to Azilsartan (Edarbi), an effective ARB for managing high blood pressure in adults.
About azilsartan
Azilsartan is a medication classified as an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). It works by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a hormone that causes blood vessels to tighten, thereby relaxing them and lowering blood pressure. This helps reduce the workload on the heart and improves blood flow.
Edarbi is the brand name for azilsartan medoxomil, available as oral tablets in strengths of 40 mg and 80 mg. It is primarily prescribed for adults with essential hypertension (high blood pressure without an identifiable cause).
Unlike some other blood pressure medications, azilsartan does not typically cause a persistent dry cough, a common side effect of ACE inhibitors. Clinical studies show it provides superior blood pressure reductions compared to olmesartan and valsartan at maximum doses.
Before taking azilsartan
Allergy
Do not take azilsartan if you are allergic to azilsartan medoxomil or any ingredients in Edarbi tablets. Signs of allergy include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. Inform your doctor of any hypersensitivity.
Pregnancy
Azilsartan is contraindicated in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy due to risks of fetal death or serious injury. It may cause low amniotic fluid, leading to fetal lung, skull, and kidney problems. Avoid in early pregnancy if possible; use effective contraception during treatment. If pregnancy occurs, discontinue immediately and consult your doctor.
Breastfeeding
It is unknown if azilsartan passes into breast milk. Weigh benefits against risks and consider alternatives, as ARBs may pose risks to infants.
Babies and children
Safety and efficacy in children under 18 have not been established. Use is not recommended.
Adults aged 65 or over
No overall differences in safety or effectiveness compared to younger adults, but elderly patients may be more sensitive to blood pressure-lowering effects. Monitor closely and start with lower doses if needed.
Having tests or procedures
Azilsartan may increase blood potassium levels, affecting lab tests. It can also elevate blood creatinine and urea nitrogen (BUN), indicating kidney function changes. Inform healthcare providers before surgery or tests, as it may interact with anesthetics causing hypotension.
Other medicines, foods, and drink
Do not take with:
- Aliskiren-containing products if you have diabetes or renal impairment (GFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m²).
Tell your doctor if taking:
- Other blood pressure meds (e.g., diuretics, ACE inhibitors), potassium supplements, salt substitutes, NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen), lithium, or colesevelam.
- Medicines affecting potassium (e.g., spironolactone).
No known interactions with foods, alcohol, or caffeine, but limit alcohol to avoid enhanced hypotension.
Health conditions
Talk to your doctor before use if you have:
- Kidney problems, dialysis, or recent transplant.
- Liver disease.
- Heart failure, recent heart attack, or stroke.
- Low blood pressure, dehydration, vomiting, or diarrhea.
- High potassium levels or electrolyte imbalances.
- Diabetes.
No dose adjustment needed for mild/moderate renal impairment, but monitor in severe cases or renovascular hypertension.
How and when to take azilsartan
Dosage
The usual starting dose is 40 mg once daily. Your doctor may increase to 80 mg if needed. Take with or without food.
National guidelines
British Hypertension Society recommends ARBs like azilsartan for hypertension, often combined with other agents if monotherapy fails.
Changes to treatment
Do not stop suddenly without medical advice, as blood pressure may rise. If switching from another ARB/ACE inhibitor, monitor for up to 36 hours post-last dose.
Missed dose: Take as soon as remembered unless near next dose; do not double up.
How to take
Swallow tablets whole with water. Consistent daily timing aids adherence.
Common questions
How long does azilsartan take to work?
Blood pressure lowers within 2 weeks, with full effect in 4 weeks.
How long to take it?
Lifelong for hypertension management unless advised otherwise.
Can lifestyle changes help?
Yes: healthy diet, exercise, weight loss, reduced salt/alcohol, no smoking enhance effects.
Side-effects
Side effects are generally mild; 1 in 100 people experience issues. Most resolve over time.
Common side effects
These affect more than 1 in 100:
| Side Effect | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Dizziness | Lie down; avoid driving. Usually settles. |
| Diarrhea | Drink fluids; see doctor if persistent. |
Serious side effects
Rare but seek immediate help for:
- Low blood pressure: Dizziness, fainting, weakness (especially with diuretics/dehydration).
- Kidney problems: Reduced urine, swelling, fatigue.
- High potassium: Muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat.
- Allergic reaction: Rash, swelling, breathing issues.
- Angioedema: Swelling of face/lips/throat.
Other uncommon: Fatigue, edema, muscle spasms, increased creatinine.
Reporting side effects
In UK: Yellow Card scheme. US: FDA MedWatch.
Overdose
Symptoms: Hypotension, dizziness. Seek emergency care.
Cautions when having other medicines or procedures
Monitor with diuretics (risk of hypotension, kidney issues). Use caution with NSAIDs, potassium-sparing drugs. Inform anesthesiologists.
General information
About blood pressure tablets
Hypertension often asymptomatic; untreated risks heart attack/stroke. ARBs like azilsartan relax vessels effectively.
Medicines for the heart and blood vessels
ARBs block angiotensin II receptors. Azilsartan has high potency, 24-hour control.
Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs)
Preferred if ACE inhibitors cause cough. Not first-line in all cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who should not take Edarbi?
A: Those allergic to azilsartan, pregnant (2nd/3rd trimester), or with diabetes/renal impairment on aliskiren.
Q: What is the typical dose?
A: 40-80 mg once daily.
Q: Does it cause weight gain?
A: No.
Q: Can it be used in kidney disease?
A: Caution in severe cases; no adjustment for mild/moderate.
Q: Is it safe for elderly?
A: Yes, but monitor sensitivity.
References
- Edarbi EPAR Product Information — European Medicines Agency. 2023. https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/product-information/edarbi-epar-product-information_en.pdf
- Edarbi (azilsartan): Uses, Side Effects, Dosage & More — GoodRx. 2025-01-10. https://www.goodrx.com/edarbi/what-is
- Edarbi (azilsartan medoxomil) – Uses, Side Effects, and More — WebMD. 2025. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-155419/edarbi-oral/details
- Edarbi 20 mg tablets PIL — Medicines.org.uk. 2024-06-01. https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.4074.pdf
- Azilsartan Tablets — Cleveland Clinic. 2024. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/18586-azilsartan-tablets
- Edarbi Label — FDA. 2011-02-16. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/200796s000lbl.pdf
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