Candesartan Cilexetil and Hydrochlorothiazide 32 mg; 12.5 mg Tablet, 90-count
🆔 Identity & classification
Where does this data come from?
🏷️ RxNorm drug class
This medicine belongs to the Angiotensin 2 Receptor Blocker class.
Where does this data come from?
🏭 Manufacturer & labeler
Where does this data come from?
🩺 Clinical
Candesartan is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high blood pressure. Candesartan is also used alone or in combination with other medications to treat congestive heart failure (a condition when your heart can not pump enough blood to the other parts of the body). Candesartan is in a class of medications called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. It works by blocking the action of certain natural substances that tighten the blood vessels, allowing the blood to flow more smoothly and the heart to pump more efficiently. High blood pressure is a common condition, and wh...
Read the full MedlinePlus article ↗- Great question. Each of the two ingredients lowers blood pressure in a different way. Candesartan relaxes your blood vessels by blocking a hormone that would otherwise tighten them...
- What exactly is this medication doing for my blood pressure — why two drugs in one pill?
- It doesn't matter much. You can take this tablet with or without food — even a fatty meal doesn't significantly change how well candesartan is absorbed. The most important thing is...
- Does it matter if I take it with food or on an empty stomach?
Patient education
Supplement & herbal interactions
Where does this data come from?
Ask a licensed pharmacist directly — free, answered by our team.
💊 What it looks like
Where does this data come from?
🧪 Inactive Ingredients / Excipients
Inactive ingredients, also called excipients, are components of the drug product other than the active ingredient. They may include fillers, dyes, coatings, preservatives, flavors, or other formulation ingredients.
💡 Tap an ingredient (hover on desktop) to see what it is and why it’s used.
-
UNII UTY7PDF93L
A plant-derived thickening agent made from cellulose. It acts as a binder to hold tablet ingredients together and as a disintegrant to help the tablet break apart in your stomach so the medicine can be absorbed.
-
UNII EX438O2MRT
Ferric oxide yellow is a naturally occurring iron compound used as a colorant in medications. It gives tablets, capsules, and other forms a yellow or golden hue for identification and appearance.
-
UNII 9XZ8H6N6OH
A plant-based cellulose derivative used as a binder to hold tablet ingredients together, a thickener in liquids, and a coating agent to control how fast the medicine dissolves.
-
UNII EWQ57Q8I5X
Lactose monohydrate is a natural sugar derived from milk. It serves as a filler and binder in tablets and capsules, helping create the proper size, texture, and consistency of the medicine.
-
UNII 70097M6I30
Magnesium stearate is a salt made from magnesium and stearic acid, a fatty substance. It's used in tablets and capsules as a lubricant and glidant to help ingredients flow smoothly during manufacturing and prevent sticking.
-
UNII Q662QK8M3B
Polyethylene glycol 8000 is a synthetic polymer made from ethylene oxide. It acts as a binder and filler in tablets and capsules, helping hold ingredients together and add bulk to the medicine.
-
UNII O8232NY3SJ
A plant-based carbohydrate derived from corn kernels. It acts as a filler to add bulk, a binder to hold ingredients together, and a disintegrant to help the tablet break apart in your stomach for absorption.
7 inactive ingredients listed in the exact product block matched to this NDC.
Where does this data come from?
ingredient classCode="IACT" elements from the exact product block matched by this NDC. Label-section narrative from DailyMed / the openFDA label index is shown separately when available.Inactive ingredient FAQ
Are inactive ingredients the same for every manufacturer?
Why might an inactive ingredient be missing?
Can inactive ingredients matter?
💲 Pricing
A drug doesn't have one price. Each row is a different public payment system, and none is what you'd pay at the counter — that depends on your insurance. The ⓘ on each row explains what it measures.
| Price system | Per ea | Per package |
|---|---|---|
| Retail pharmacies payNADAC · weekly | $0.901 | $81.12 / 90 tablets |
| Medicaid paysCMS SDUD · 12 mo | $1.17 | $104.90 / 90 tablets |
| Medicare drug plans payPart D · Q2 2026 | $1.41 | $127.19 / 90 tablets |
Where does this data come from?
🔁 Therapeutic equivalents
| Product | Labeler | Pack | NADAC/unit | TE | Status | Price vs. this |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Candesartan Cilexetil and Hydrochlorothiazide 32 mg/1; 12.5 mg 33342-0132-10 | Macleods | 90 tablets | $0.901 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide 32 mg/1; 12.5 mg 43547-0460-09 | Solco | 90 tablets | $0.901 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Candesartan Cilexetil and Hydrochlorothiazide 32 mg/1; 12.5 mgthis 62559-0661-90 | ANI | 90 tablets | $0.901 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Atacand Hct 32 mg/1; 12.5 mg 62559-0651-90 | ANI | 90 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
| candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide 32 mg/1; 12.5 mg 70771-1326-00 | Zydus | 1000 tablets | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
Where does this data come from?
⏳ Availability & generic status
FDA-approved generic versions are listed, and recent pricing/market data suggests they may be available — see Therapeutic equivalents.
Where does this data come from?
🗺️ Medicaid utilization & spend
📦 Packaging — all sizes for this product
| Package NDC | Description | Marketing start | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62559-0661-90 You're viewing this | 90 TABLET in 1 BOTTLE (62559-661-90) | 2018-09-26 | Active |
📄 Full prescribing information FDA SPL
🚨 Boxed Warning ▾
WARNING: FETAL TOXICITY • When pregnancy is detected, discontinue candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets as soon as possible. • Drugs that act directly on the renin-angiotensin system can cause injury and death to the developing fetus. See Warnings: Fetal Toxicity
🎯 Indications and Usage ▾
INDICATIONS AND USAGE Candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets are indicated for the treatment of hypertension, to lower blood pressure. Lowering blood pressure reduces the risk of fatal and non-fatal cardiovascular events, primarily strokes and myocardial infarctions. These benefits have been seen in controlled trials of antihypertensive drugs from a wide variety of pharmacologic classes including the class to which this drug principally belongs.
There are no controlled trials demonstrating risk reduction with candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets. Control of high blood pressure should be part of comprehensive cardiovascular risk management, including, as appropriate, lipid control, diabetes management, antithrombotic therapy, smoking cessation, exercise, and limited sodium intake. Many patients will require more than one drug to achieve blood pressure goals.
For specific advice on goals and management, see published guidelines, such as those of the National High Blood Pressure Education Program’s Joint National Committee on Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure (JNC). Numerous antihypertensive drugs, from a variety of pharmacologic classes and with different mechanisms of action, have been shown in randomized controlled trials to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, and it can be concluded that it is blood pressure reduction, and not some other pharmacologic property of the drugs, that is largely responsible for those benefits.
The largest and most consistent cardiovascular outcome benefit has been a reduction in the risk of stroke, but reductions in myocardial infarction and cardiovascular mortality also have been seen regularly. Elevated systolic or diastolic pressure causes increased cardiovascular risk, and the absolute risk increase per mmHg is greater at higher blood pressures, so that even modest reductions of severe hypertension can provide substantial benefit. Relative risk reduction from blood pressure reduction is similar across populations with varying absolute risk, so the absolute benefit is greater in patients who are at higher risk independent of their hypertension (for example, patients with diabetes or hyperlipidemia), and such patients would be expected to benefit from more aggressive treatment to a lower blood pressure goal.
Some antihypertensive drugs have smaller blood pressure effects (as monotherapy) in black patients, and many antihypertensive drugs have additional approved indications and effects (e.g., on angina, heart failure, or diabetic kidney disease). These considerations may guide selection of therapy. This fixed dose combination is not indicated for initial therapy (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION ).
⏱️ Dosage and Administration ▾
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION The usual recommended starting dose of candesartan cilexetil is 16 mg once daily when it is used as monotherapy in patients who are not volume depleted. Candesartan cilexetil tablets can be administered once or twice daily with total daily doses ranging from 8 mg to 32 mg. Patients requiring further reduction in blood pressure should be titrated to 32 mg.
Doses larger than 32 mg do not appear to have a greater blood pressure lowering effect. Hydrochlorothiazide is effective in doses of 12.5 to 50 mg once daily. Use in Renal Impairment: Dosing recommendations for candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets in patients with creatinine clearance < 30 mg/min cannot be provided (see SPECIAL POPULATIONS, Renal Insufficiency ).
Use in moderate to severe Hepatic Impairment: Candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets are not recommended for initiation because the appropriate starting dose, 8 mg, cannot be given (see SPECIAL POPULATIONS, Hepatic Insufficiency ). Replacement Therapy: The combination may be substituted for the titrated components. Dose Titration by Clinical Effect: A patient whose blood pressure is not controlled on 25 mg of hydrochlorothiazide once daily can expect an incremental effect from candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets 16 mg/12.5 mg.
A patient whose blood pressure is controlled on 25 mg of hydrochlorothiazide but is experiencing decreases in serum potassium can expect the same or incremental blood pressure effects from candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets 16 mg/12.5 mg and serum potassium may improve. A patient whose blood pressure is not controlled on 32 mg of candesartan cilexetil tablets can expect incremental blood pressure effects from candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets 32 mg/12.5 mg and then 32 mg/25 mg.
The maximal antihypertensive effect of any dose of candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets can be expected within 4 weeks of initiating that dose. Candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets may be administered with other antihypertensive agents. Candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets may be administered with or without food.
⛔ Contraindications ▾
CONTRAINDICATIONS Candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets are contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to candesartan, to hydrochlorothiazide or to other sulfonamide-derived drugs. Do not co-administer aliskiren with candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets in patients with diabetes (see PRECAUTIONS, Drug Interactions ). Candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets are contraindicated in patients with anuria.
⚠️ Warnings ▾
WARNINGS Fetal Toxicity Use of drugs that act on the renin-angiotensin system during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy reduces fetal renal function and increases fetal and neonatal morbidity and death. Resulting oligohydramnios can be associated with fetal lung hypoplasia and skeletal deformations. Potential neonatal adverse effects include skull hypoplasia, anuria, hypotension, renal failure, and death.
When pregnancy is detected, discontinue candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets as soon as possible. These adverse outcomes are usually associated with use of these drugs in the second and third trimester of pregnancy. Most epidemiologic studies examining fetal abnormalities after exposure to antihypertensive use in the first trimester have not distinguished drugs affecting the renin-angiotensin system from other antihypertensive agents.
Appropriate management of maternal hypertension during pregnancy is important to optimize outcomes for both mother and fetus. In the unusual case that there is no appropriate alternative to therapy with drugs affecting the renin-angiotensin system for a particular patient, apprise the mother of the potential risk to the fetus. Perform serial ultrasound examinations to assess the intra-amniotic environment.
If oligohydramnios is observed, discontinue candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets, unless it is considered lifesaving for the mother. Fetal testing may be appropriate, based on the week of pregnancy. Patients and physicians should be aware, however, that oligohydramnios may not appear until after the fetus has sustained irreversible injury.
Closely observe infants with histories of in utero exposure to candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets for hypotension, oliguria, and hyperkalemia (see PRECAUTIONS, Pediatric Use ). There was no evidence of teratogenicity or other adverse effects on embryo-fetal development when pregnant mice, rats or rabbits were treated orally with candesartan cilexetil alone or in combination with hydrochlorothiazide. For mice, the maximum dose of candesartan cilexetil was 1000 mg/kg/day (about 150 times the maximum recommended daily human dose [MRHD] Doses compared on the basis of body surface area.
MRHD considered to be 32 mg for candesartan cilexetil and 12.5 mg for hydrochlorothiazide. ). For rats, the maximum dose of candesartan cilexetil was 100 mg/kg/day (about 31 times the MRHD 1 ). For rabbits, the maximum dose of candesartan cilexetil was 1 mg/kg/day (a maternally toxic dose that is about half the MRHD 1 ).
In each of these studies, hydrochlorothiazide was tested at the same dose level (10 mg/kg/day, about 4, 8, and 15 times the MRHD 1 in mouse, rats, and rabbit, respectively). There was no evidence of harm to the rat or mouse fetus or embryo in studies in which hydrochlorothiazide was administered alone to the pregnant rat or mouse at doses of up to 1000 and 3000 mg/kg/day, respectively. Thiazides cross the placental barrier and appear in cord blood.
There is a risk of fetal or neonatal jaundice, thrombocytopenia, and possibly other adverse reactions that have occurred in adults. Hypotension Candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets can cause symptomatic hypotension. Symptomatic hypotension is most likely to occur in patients who have been volume and/or salt depleted as a result of prolonged diuretic therapy, dietary salt restriction, dialysis, diarrhea, or vomiting.
Patients with symptomatic hypotension may require temporarily reducing the dose of candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets or volume repletion. Volume and/or salt depletion should be corrected before initiating therapy with candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets. In patients with heart failure, candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets may cause excessive hypotension, which may lead to oliguria, azotemia, and (rarely) with acute renal failure and death (see WARNINGS, Impaired Renal Functio…
🤒 Adverse Reactions ▾
ADVERSE REACTIONS Candesartan Cilexetil and Hydrochlorothiazide Candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets have been evaluated for safety in more than 2800 patients treated for hypertension. More than 750 of these patients were studied for at least six months and more than 500 patients were treated for at least one year. Adverse experiences have generally been mild and transient in nature and have only infrequently required discontinuation of therapy.
The overall incidence of adverse events reported with candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets was comparable to placebo. The overall frequency of adverse experiences was not related to dose, age, gender, or race. In placebo-controlled trials that included 1089 patients treated with various combinations of candesartan cilexetil (doses of 2-32 mg) and hydrochlorothiazide (doses of 6.25-25 mg) and 592 patients treated with placebo, adverse events, whether or not attributed to treatment, occurring in greater than 2% of patients treated with candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets and that were more frequent for candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets than placebo were: Respiratory System Disorder: upper respiratory tract infection (3.6% vs 3.0%); Body as a Whole: back pain (3.3% vs 2.4%); influenza-like symptoms (2.5% vs 1.9%); Central/Peripheral Nervous System: dizziness (2.9% vs 1.2%).
Post-Marketing Experience The following have been very rarely reported in post-marketing experience with candesartan cilexetil: Digestive: Abnormal hepatic function and hepatitis. Hematologic: Neutropenia, leukopenia, and agranulocytosis. Immunologic: Angioedema Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders: Hyperkalemia, hyponatremia.
Respiratory System Disorders: Cough Skin and Appendages Disorders: Pruritus, rash and urticaria. Rare reports of rhabdomyolysis have been reported in patients receiving angiotensin II receptor blockers. Hydrochlorothiazide Other adverse experiences that have been reported with hydrochlorothiazide, without regard to causality, are listed below: Gastrointestinal: pancreatitis, jaundice (intrahepatic cholestatic jaundice), sialadenitis, cramping, constipation, gastric irritation, anorexia Hematologic: aplastic anemia, agranulocytosis, leukopenia, hemolytic anemia, thrombocytopenia Hypersensitivity: anaphylactic reactions, necrotizing angiitis (vasculitis and cutaneous vasculitis), respiratory distress including pneumonitis and pulmonary edema, photosensitivity, urticaria, purpura Musculoskeletal: muscle spasm Non-melanoma Skin Cancer: Hydrochlorothiazide is associated with an increased risk of non-melanoma skin cancer.
In a study conducted in the Sentinel System, increased risk was predominantly for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and in white patients taking large cumulative doses. The increased risk for SCC in the overall population was approximately 1 additional case per 16,000 patients per year, and for white patients taking a cumulative dose of ≥50,000 mg the risk increase was approximately 1 additional SCC case for every 6,700 patients per year. Skin: erythema multiforme including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, exfoliative dermatitis including toxic epidermal necrolysis, alopecia Special Senses: transient blurred vision, xanthopsia Urogenital: impotence To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc. at 1-855-204-1431 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
🔄 Drug Interactions ▾
Drug Interactions Because candesartan is not significantly metabolized by the cytochrome P450 system and at therapeutic concentrations has no effects on P450 enzymes, interactions with drugs that inhibit or are metabolized by those enzymes would not be expected. Interactions common to both Candesartan Cilexetil and Hydrochlorothiazide Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents including Selective Cyclooxygenase-2 Inhibitors (COX-2 Inhibitors) In patients who are elderly, volume-depleted (including those on diuretic therapy), or with compromised renal function, co-administration of NSAIDs, including selective COX-2 inhibitors, with angiotensin II receptor antagonists, including candesartan, may result in deterioration of renal function, including possible acute renal failure.
These effects are usually reversible. Monitor renal function periodically in patients receiving candesartan and NSAID therapy. The antihypertensive effect of angiotensin II receptor antagonists, including candesartan may be attenuated by NSAIDs including selective COX-2 inhibitors.
Lithium Increases in serum lithium concentrations and lithium toxicity have been reported during concomitant administration of lithium with angiotensin II receptor antagonists or hydrochlorothiazide. Monitor serum lithium levels during concomitant use. Interactions with Candesartan Cilexetil Dual Blockade of the Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) Dual blockade of the RAS with angiotensin receptor blockers, ACE inhibitors, or aliskiren is associated with increased risks of hypotension, hyperkalemia, and changes in renal function (including acute renal failure) compared to monotherapy.
Closely monitor blood pressure, renal function and electrolytes in patients on candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets and other agents that affect the RAS. Co-administration of candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets with potassium sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, potassium-containing salt substitutes or other drugs that raise serum potassium levels may result in hyperkalemia. Monitor serum potassium in such patients.
Do not co-administer aliskiren with candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets in patients with diabetes. Avoid use of aliskiren with candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets in patients with renal impairment (GFR <60 mL/min) (see CONTRAINDICATIONS ). Interactions with Hydrochlorothiazide Alcohol, barbiturates, or narcotics − Potentiation of orthostatic hypotension may occur.
Antidiabetic drugs (oral agents and insulin) − Dosage adjustment of the antidiabetic drug may be required. Diazoxide − the hyperglycemic effect of diazoxide may be enhanced by thiazides. Ion Exchange resins − Single doses of either cholestyramine or colestipol resins bind the hydrochlorothiazide and reduce its absorption from the gastrointestinal tract by up to 85% and 43%, respectively.
Stagger the dosage of hydrochlorothiazide and ion exchange resins such that hydrochlorothiazide is administered at least 4 hours before or 4-6 hours after the administration of resins. Skeletal muscle relaxants, nondepolarizing (e.g., tubocurarine) − Possible increased responsiveness to muscle relaxants such as curare derivatives. Digitalis − Thiazide-induced hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia may predispose to digoxin toxicity.
Noradrenaline – Thiazides may decrease arterial responsiveness to noradrenaline, but not enough to preclude effectiveness of the pressor agent for therapeutic use. Steroids or Adrenocorticotropic Hormone – Hypokalemia may develop during concomitant use of steroids or adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). Cytotoxic products – Thiazides may reduce the renal excretion of cytotoxic medicinal products (e.g. cyclophosphamide, methotrexate) and potentiate their myelosuppressive effects.
Cyclosporine − Concomitant treatment with cyclosporine may increase the risk of hyperuricemia and gout-type complications.
🧒 Pediatric Use ▾
Pediatric Use Neonates with a history of in utero exposure to candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets: If oliguria or hypotension occurs, direct attention toward support of blood pressure and renal perfusion. Exchange transfusions or dialysis may be required as a means of reversing hypotension and/or substituting for disordered renal function. Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.
🆘 Overdosage ▾
OVERDOSAGE Candesartan Cilexetil and Hydrochlorothiazide No lethality was observed in acute toxicity studies in mice, rats and dogs given single oral doses of up to 2000 mg/kg of candesartan cilexetil or in rats given single oral doses of up to 2000 mg/kg of candesartan cilexetil in combination with 1000 mg/kg of hydrochlorothiazide. In mice given single oral doses of the primary metabolite, candesartan, the minimum lethal dose was greater than 1000 mg/kg but less than 2000 mg/kg. Limited data are available in regard to overdosage with candesartan cilexetil in humans.
The most likely manifestations of overdosage with candesartan cilexetil would be hypotension, dizziness, and tachycardia; bradycardia could occur from parasympathetic (vagal) stimulation. If symptomatic hypotension should occur, supportive treatment should be initiated. For hydrochlorothiazide, the most common signs and symptoms observed are those caused by electrolyte depletion (hypokalemia, hypochloremia, hyponatremia) and dehydration resulting from excessive diuresis.
If digitalis has also been administered, hypokalemia may accentuate cardiac arrhythmias. Candesartan cannot be removed by hemodialysis. The degree to which hydrochlorothiazide is removed by hemodialysis has not been established.
Treatment To obtain up-to-date information about the treatment of overdose, consult your Regional Poison Control Center. Telephone numbers of certified poison control centers are listed in the Physicians’ Desk Reference (PDR) . In managing overdose, consider the possibilities of multiple-drug overdoses, drug-drug interactions, and altered pharmacokinetics in your patient.
🧬 Clinical Pharmacology ▾
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY Mechanism of Action Angiotensin II is formed from angiotensin I in a reaction catalyzed by angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE, kininase II). Angiotensin II is the principal pressor agent of the renin-angiotensin system, with effects that include vasoconstriction, stimulation of synthesis and release of aldosterone, cardiac stimulation, and renal reabsorption of sodium. Candesartan blocks the vasoconstrictor and aldosterone-secreting effects of angiotensin II by selectively blocking the binding of angiotensin II to the AT 1 receptor in many tissues, such as vascular smooth muscle and the adrenal gland.
Its action is, therefore, independent of the pathways for angiotensin II synthesis. There is also an AT 2 receptor found in many tissues, but AT 2 is not known to be associated with cardiovascular homeostasis. Candesartan has much greater affinity (>10,000-fold) for the AT 1 receptor than for the AT 2 receptor.
Blockade of the renin-angiotensin system with ACE inhibitors, which inhibit the biosynthesis of angiotensin II from angiotensin I, is widely used in the treatment of hypertension. ACE inhibitors also inhibit the degradation of bradykinin, a reaction also catalyzed by ACE. Because candesartan does not inhibit ACE (kininase II), it does not affect the response to bradykinin.
Whether this difference has clinical relevance is not yet known. Candesartan does not bind to or block other hormone receptors or ion channels known to be important in cardiovascular regulation. Blockade of the angiotensin II receptor inhibits the negative regulatory feedback of angiotensin II on renin secretion, but the resulting increased plasma renin activity and angiotensin II circulating levels do not overcome the effect of candesartan on blood pressure.
Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic. Thiazides affect the renal tubular mechanisms of electrolyte reabsorption, directly increasing excretion of sodium and chloride in approximately equivalent amounts. Indirectly, the diuretic action of hydrochlorothiazide reduces plasma volume, with consequent increases in plasma renin activity, increases in aldosterone secretion, increases in urinary potassium loss, and decreases in serum potassium.
The renin-aldosterone link is mediated by angiotensin II, so co‑administration of an angiotensin II receptor antagonist tends to reverse the potassium loss associated with these diuretics. The mechanism of the antihypertensive effect of thiazides is unknown. Pharmacokinetics General Candesartan Cilexetil Candesartan cilexetil is rapidly and completely bioactivated by ester hydrolysis during absorption from the gastrointestinal tract to candesartan, a selective AT 1 subtype angiotensin II receptor antagonist.
Candesartan is mainly excreted unchanged in urine and feces (via bile). It undergoes minor hepatic metabolism by O-deethylation to an inactive metabolite. The elimination half-life of candesartan is approximately 9 hours.
After single and repeated administration, the pharmacokinetics of candesartan are linear for oral doses up to 32 mg of candesartan cilexetil. Candesartan and its inactive metabolite do not accumulate in serum upon repeated once-daily dosing. Following administration of candesartan cilexetil, the absolute bioavailability of candesartan was estimated to be 15%.
After tablet ingestion, the peak serum concentration (C max ) is reached after 3 to 4 hours. Food with a high fat content does not affect the bioavailability of candesartan after candesartan cilexetil administration. Hydrochlorothiazide When plasma levels have been followed for at least 24 hours, the plasma half-life has been observed to vary between 5.6 and 14.8 hours.
Metabolism and Excretion Candesartan Cilexetil Total plasma clearance of candesartan is 0.37 mL/min/kg, with a renal clearance of 0.19 mL/min/kg. When candesartan is administered orally, about 26% of the dose is excreted unchanged in urine. Following an oral dose of 14 C-labeled candesartan cilexet…
🧬 Mechanism of Action ▾
Mechanism of Action Angiotensin II is formed from angiotensin I in a reaction catalyzed by angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE, kininase II). Angiotensin II is the principal pressor agent of the renin-angiotensin system, with effects that include vasoconstriction, stimulation of synthesis and release of aldosterone, cardiac stimulation, and renal reabsorption of sodium. Candesartan blocks the vasoconstrictor and aldosterone-secreting effects of angiotensin II by selectively blocking the binding of angiotensin II to the AT 1 receptor in many tissues, such as vascular smooth muscle and the adrenal gland.
Its action is, therefore, independent of the pathways for angiotensin II synthesis. There is also an AT 2 receptor found in many tissues, but AT 2 is not known to be associated with cardiovascular homeostasis. Candesartan has much greater affinity (>10,000-fold) for the AT 1 receptor than for the AT 2 receptor.
Blockade of the renin-angiotensin system with ACE inhibitors, which inhibit the biosynthesis of angiotensin II from angiotensin I, is widely used in the treatment of hypertension. ACE inhibitors also inhibit the degradation of bradykinin, a reaction also catalyzed by ACE. Because candesartan does not inhibit ACE (kininase II), it does not affect the response to bradykinin.
Whether this difference has clinical relevance is not yet known. Candesartan does not bind to or block other hormone receptors or ion channels known to be important in cardiovascular regulation. Blockade of the angiotensin II receptor inhibits the negative regulatory feedback of angiotensin II on renin secretion, but the resulting increased plasma renin activity and angiotensin II circulating levels do not overcome the effect of candesartan on blood pressure.
Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic. Thiazides affect the renal tubular mechanisms of electrolyte reabsorption, directly increasing excretion of sodium and chloride in approximately equivalent amounts. Indirectly, the diuretic action of hydrochlorothiazide reduces plasma volume, with consequent increases in plasma renin activity, increases in aldosterone secretion, increases in urinary potassium loss, and decreases in serum potassium.
The renin-aldosterone link is mediated by angiotensin II, so co‑administration of an angiotensin II receptor antagonist tends to reverse the potassium loss associated with these diuretics. The mechanism of the antihypertensive effect of thiazides is unknown.
📦 How Supplied / Storage and Handling ▾
HOW SUPPLIED Candesartan Cilexetil and Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets USP, 16 mg/12.5 mg are peach, oval, biconvex, non-film-coated tablets, scored on both sides and coded with ACS on one side. They are supplied in bottles of 90 tablets (NDC 62559-660-90). Candesartan Cilexetil and Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets USP, 32 mg/12.5 mg are yellow, oval, biconvex, non-film-coated tablets, scored on both sides and coded with ACJ on one side.
They are supplied in bottles of 90 tablets (NDC 62559-661-90). Candesartan Cilexetil and Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets USP, 32 mg/25 mg are pink, oval, biconvex, non-film-coated tablets, scored on both sides and coded with ACD on one side. They are supplied in bottles of 90 tablets (NDC 62559-662-90).
Storage: Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F); excursions permitted at 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Keep container tightly closed. Manufactured under the license from Takeda Pharmaceutical Company, Ltd.
Manufactured by: AstraZeneca AB, SE-151 85 Södertälje, Sweden Distributed by: ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Baudette, MN 56623 10118 Rev 07/25 logo
📋 Description ▾
DESCRIPTION Candesartan Cilexetil and Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets USP combine an angiotensin II receptor (type AT 1 ) antagonist and a diuretic, hydrochlorothiazide. Candesartan cilexetil, a nonpeptide, is chemically described as (±)-1-Hydroxyethyl 2-ethoxy-1-[ p -( o -1 H -tetrazol-5-ylphenyl)benzyl]-7-benzimidazolecarboxylate, cyclohexyl carbonate (ester). Its empirical formula is C 33 H 34 N 6 O 6 and its structural formula is: Candesartan cilexetil is a white to off-white powder with a molecular weight of 610.67.
It is practically insoluble in water and sparingly soluble in methanol. Candesartan cilexetil is a racemic mixture containing one chiral center at the cyclohexyloxycarbonyloxy ethyl ester group. Following oral administration, candesartan cilexetil undergoes hydrolysis at the ester link to form the active drug, candesartan, which is achiral.
Hydrochlorothiazide is 6-chloro-3,4-dihydro-2 H -1,2,4-benzothiadiazine-7-sulfonamide 1,1-dioxide. Its empirical formula is C 7 H 8 ClN 3 O 4 S 2 and its structural formula is: Hydrochlorothiazide is a white, or practically white, crystalline powder with a molecular weight of 297.72, which is slightly soluble in water, but freely soluble in sodium hydroxide solution. Candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets are available for oral administration in three tablet strengths of candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide.
Candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets contain 16 mg or 32 mg of candesartan cilexetil and 12.5 mg or 25 mg of hydrochlorothiazide providing for the following available combinations: 16 mg/12.5 mg, 32 mg/12.5 mg or 32 mg/25 mg. The inactive ingredients of the tablets are carboxymethylcellulose calcium, hydroxypropyl cellulose, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, corn starch, polyethylene glycol 8000, and ferric oxide (yellow). Ferric oxide (reddish brown) is also added to the 16 mg/12.5 mg and 32 mg/25 mg tablets as colorant.
Chemical Structure for Candesartan cilexetil Chemical Structure for Hydrochlorothiazide
💬 Information for Patients ▾
Information for Patients Pregnancy Female patients of childbearing age should be told about the consequences of exposure to candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets during pregnancy. Discuss treatment options with women planning to become pregnant. Patients should be asked to report pregnancies to their physicians as soon as possible.
Symptomatic Hypotension Tell patients receiving candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets that lightheadedness can occur, especially during the first days of therapy, and that it should be reported to the prescribing physician. Tell patients that if syncope occurs, discontinue candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets until the physician has been consulted. Tell all patients that inadequate fluid intake, excessive perspiration, diarrhea, or vomiting can lead to an excessive fall in blood pressure, with the same consequences of lightheadedness and possible syncope.
Hyperkalemia Tell patients receiving candesartan cilexetil and hydrochlorothiazide tablets not to use potassium supplements, salt substitutes containing potassium, or other drugs that may increase serum potassium levels without consulting the prescribing physician. Non-melanoma Skin Cancer Instruct patients taking hydrochlorothiazide to protect skin from the sun and undergo regular skin cancer screening.