Do we need Tekturna (aliskiren)?
Thursday saw the delivery of a new Novartis drug: Tekturna (aliskiren). None of us had any idea what it was for, so we looked it up on Facts and Comparisons, and there was next to no information whatsoever, except that it is a "direct renin inhibitor" — whatever that meant.
Now that I'm home on a non-firewalled Internet connection, I can actually get real drug information. (How sad is it that I can't do this at the pharmacy?) Aliskiren:
Aliskiren is a direct renin inhibitor, decreasing plasma renin activity (PRA) and inhibiting the conversion of angiotensinogen to Ang I. Whether aliskiren affects other RAAS components, e.g., ACE or non-ACE pathways, is not known
I'm sure you could play games targeting specific points and pathways in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system until the cows come home, but how many of them will be meaningful? Medscape has an article comparing, contrasting, and using Diovan and Tekturna in parallel:
Do we need Tekturna? Would not an ARB plus a diuretic do a better job? There are benefits to combining an ACEi with an ARB, that are fairly well understood. Is Tekturna going to create some sort of super trifecta?
I'm thinking not. Combining an ACEi with an ARB does a couple of things. First off, ACE inhibitors only stop the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II. Blocking the pathway there does nothing to stop any non-specific binding to the angiotensin II receptor sites. ARBs block much of this non-specific binding because the receptor sites themselves are blocked. However ACEis also block the breakdown of bradkinin (which is broken down by ACE) which leads to greater vasodilation, which is why ACEis and ARBs are usually similar is study results. Bradykinins, of course, are a double-edged sword: they may contribute to vasodilation, but they are also responsible for the dry cough and angioedema associated with ACEis.
I don't see how aliskiren is going to add to this. Is there component to the RAAS that I'm not thinking of? Is it not better to attack a problem from many different angles instead of hitting the same pathway three different ways?
[tags]Medicine, pharmacy, hypertension, cardiology, physiology[/tags]
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"Is it not better to attack a problem from many different angles instead of hitting the same pathway three different ways?"
Of course it is, but that would require more basic science, ie, actual research; which costs money. The only thing better than a "me-too" drug is another drug that hits the same pathway somewhere else. See? It's different (even though its end result is the same.) The pharma R&D "path of least resistance" is the path of least expense.
Comment by #1 Dinosaur — April 1, 2007 @ 7:09 pm
Using and ARB and a diuretic to achieve the same thing is NOT just as good. We know diuretics ACTIVATE the RAAS and that is why we try to avoid giving them. Not to mention that they increase blood glucose, decrease GFR and cause electrolyte abnormalities. So maybe Aliskeren would be better….only time will tell.
Comment by Julie Gee — April 24, 2007 @ 1:09 pm
Julie,
Diuretics may activate the RAAS, but this is largely mitigated by the use of an ACEi or an ARB. It becomes an excercise in pointlessness to nail the same pathway three different ways (in most cases). Once or twice is enough. After that, you're better off exploring other ways of lowering blood pressure. (CCBs, diuretics, beta blockers, etc.)
This is especially true in patients whose HTN isn't mediated by the RAAS. But you knew that already.
Comment by RJS — April 25, 2007 @ 9:03 am
I love Tekturna. A 150 mg dose lowered by SBP from the 160s to the 120s with no noticeable side effects. I cannot take either ACE inhibitors or ARBs because both give me unbearable muscle pain. (The ACE inhibitors are worse than the ARBs.) I am also allergic to sulfa drugs so cannot take diuretics.
Comment by Norene Stucka — May 1, 2007 @ 12:10 pm
I've been taking Lotrel for quite some time and the results have been just ok. I started on a 300 mg dose of Tekturna plus
160 mg of Diovan 6 days ago in place of the Lotel, and my numbers have shot up significantly. I've been told to give it 2 weeks. I'm not encouraged at this point. It seems over time that
the only family of medicine that has an impact is the CCB's.
Comment by Rick Holtz — May 3, 2007 @ 12:41 am
It could be that your HTN is not mediated by the RAAS, which is quite common among African Americans, for example. The lack of efficacy of drugs which target the RAAS would seem to indicate that this is the case. *shrug*
Comment by RJS — May 3, 2007 @ 10:21 pm
There are millions of people who have hypertension and remain uncontrolled. Tekturna is a new option. Why not stop the RAAS at the point of activation. Tekturna can also reduce plasma renin activity by 50-80% and hypertensive patients have higher renin plasma activity. Granted there are alot of options for reducing blood pressure but reducing PRA down to a normotensive patient level that you have to admit is exciting news. I'm all for having Tekturna used first line or add on for the additional benefit of lowering blood pressure and PRA.
Comment by Renae Lasday — May 11, 2007 @ 8:43 am
all of the different classes of HTN med's (at comparable dosing strengths) show similar BP reductions. You failed to mention the fact that Aliskiren has a very favorable side effect profile. The fact that you have the ability to add on to any other Anti-Hyptertension med, and not have an increase in side effect, makes this a very attractive add-on therapy for those not controlled.
Recent studies suggest that the average Hyptertension patient needs an average of 3 different classes to acieve BP controll. A new class that has "equal" BP reductions in monotherapy, added reductions on top of ANY other agent, and a very favorable side effect profile should make this an attractive drug right away.
You might also want to look at this drug's long lasting effect. Given its 40 hr. half life, this is a true once a day medication, with consistent 24 hour control, without any rebound hpertension after 2 days following discontinuation.
(another very favorable trait about Aliskiren)
What I'm reading and hearing about the expected end-organ bennefit from this class gives even more hope for the future.
Overall, I'd say that the future looks bright with this new addition to the HTN marketplace, so I disagree with your original assessment.
Comment by tenretni — May 15, 2007 @ 11:29 pm
Just had to say that I find it funny that a "Pharm D" would not see the benefits of attacking a problem at the rate inhibiting step. That is exactly what aliskiren does. As far as I am concerned, all new weapons for treating HP are beneficial and needed. Really looking forward to seeing how direct renin inhibition might change how we treat HBP!
Comment by John Peacock — May 22, 2007 @ 11:10 pm
Could someone tell me what the implications of the Pro-Renin Receptor may be? (HINT)
How would Tekturna come into play? (HINT)
This is a good drug, and a class that is a big part of the future of treating Hypertension. The future is bright for the DRI class of drugs.
Comment by tenretni — May 23, 2007 @ 5:57 pm
Tekturna hasn't done sqaut for me. It doesn't lower my bp and doesn't last 24 hrs.
Comment by ElizabethAnne — June 4, 2007 @ 8:25 pm
Thats really funny!! Doesn't last 24 hours!? I think you may be taking the placebo pill…
Tekturna does both very well, and doctor's are jumping onto the DRI/Tekturna bandwagon very quickly!
Comment by tenretni — June 5, 2007 @ 11:50 pm
i have been taking Tekturna for eight dats along w/ atacand 32/16 pressure is still the same, nothing seems to take my systolic down it stay high. I have been on all major BP medicine helps.
I believe they was giving me wrong medicine together. I need to know why no one can get my pressure under control? My legs hurt terrible. I am sleeping all of the time
Comment by Naomi — June 14, 2007 @ 5:02 pm
Hyperkalemia…. i see that as a significant problem, and hypotension is increased with higher dose aces and atorvastatin. I don't see how having a patient on an ACE, ARB, and this is going to increase efficacy, i believe we'll be seeing a lot of people having renal problems if we con't to bombard certain pathways that may not even be the cause of the problem to begin with. I agree, a "me too" drug.
Comment by kerry — June 19, 2007 @ 9:56 am
My dr. has just put me on this & I seem to be very dizzy all the time.
What is the best time of day to take a blood pressure medicine; as he never said nor the pharmacist.
Thank you.
B. Marcom
Comment by Barb — July 1, 2007 @ 12:30 pm
Barb, some people find that if they become dizzy, it is best to take the medication at bedtime so you sleep through the side effects. If you are on a diuretic, make sure you do not become dehydrated, this can happen when people are placed on other BP medications. You should contact your provider to let them know you are having this symptom.
Comment by Julie — July 2, 2007 @ 7:54 am
Because it doesn't matter. But it doesn't hurt to, you know, ASK next time.
Comment by RJS — July 2, 2007 @ 8:31 am
I can't believe that the introduction of this drug caught anyone by surprise. Its been hyped in all of the publications for months, since it is the first of a new drug class for HTN.
Just as we are finding some benefit to combining an ACE and an ARB (early on no one thought this needed to be done) I think there will be benefit in combining Aliskiren with an ACE or ARB for more complete blockade.
Comment by TALEXANDER — July 2, 2007 @ 1:24 pm
I have a tekturna question for the whole gang! I'm doing a market research project on drugs for dyslipidemia. Who is paying for your Tekturna? I'm trying to find out what managed care formularies it is already listed on. So is insurance paying for it? If so, who is your provider? Thanks in advance!
Kath
Comment by Kathryn Stuart — July 6, 2007 @ 11:38 pm
I have been on tekturna 300 mg for 3 months- an dit is the only medication that is working- I also have the clinidine patch which does well with tekturna. NOthing else had worked , I have no side effects and it lasts for the day. I am thankful for the medication- ARBS, BETa Blockers and ACE caused me numerous problems or didn't work…
Comment by Debbie — July 18, 2007 @ 6:14 pm
I have been on Tekturna for six weeks and have noticed that my BP is controlled nicely during the day but is elevated before bed and upon awakening. What could be causing this? Menopause? As far as side effects go, I have started to feel very achey and tired. I haven't noticed anyone else writing with this complaint. I have a normal renin level and one kidney.
Comment by Patty — July 20, 2007 @ 4:21 am
is there DR OR NURSE OUT THERE THAT CAN explain to me these terms and what they do? ARB, RAAS, PRA, ACE AND NONE ACE INHIBATOR, REINN INHIBATOR IT SAID DECRESS PLAMSA, RENIN ACTIVATE PRA INHIBITING THE CONVERDION OF ANGROTINSINOGEN ANG1. PLEASE EXPLAIN
I HAVE BEEN TAKING TEKTURNA FOR OVER A MONTH ALONG WITH WATER PILL AND DIVON MY PRESSURE SEEMS TO HAVE GONE DOWN 10 POINT BUT STILL HIGH.
I DID NOTICE THAT IT WORKS BETTER WITH THE PLINDEL BUT IT GIVES ME A HEADACHE AND MAKE ME SO TIRED
SOME ASK WHO PAYES FOR THIS MY INSURANCE CO.NGS
NAOMI
Comment by Naomi — July 20, 2007 @ 10:40 am
I have been on tekturna for 3 months. I wake with hives, and sometimes swelling of lips. This will last until i take allegra. anyone else with this problem?
Comment by martha limehouse — August 23, 2007 @ 3:33 pm
That means you're mildly allergic to the drug, and should take something else.
Comment by RJS — August 23, 2007 @ 4:20 pm
You are having angioedema which can be a lifethreatening reaction to this medication. You should stop Tekturna and contact your provider immediately and continue to take the allegra.
Comment by Julie Gee — August 23, 2007 @ 5:20 pm
[...] has gotten their pointless direct renin inhibitor approved by the European equivalent of the [...]
Pingback by Now you Europeans can waste your money on aliskiren, too :: OnThePharm — August 30, 2007 @ 2:31 pm
I just started taking Tekturna today. I went down to have my blood pressure taken here at work and my blood pressure went from 187/92 (two days ago) to 140/74 (today). This is quite a drop and will definately report back in about 2 weeks to let you know what it is then. I could feel the pill "kick-in" this morning (7:30am)today with some dizziness about an hour and 1/2 after taking one 300 mg. pill. But I feel very relaxed now with no dizziness (3:52pm).
Comment by ML — August 30, 2007 @ 3:54 pm
I have no doubt the drug works. I just question its value in the light of the alternatives. See my other Tekturna post for details.
Comment by RJS — August 30, 2007 @ 4:17 pm
Just give this new class of antihypertensives time. From what I read in there may be some significant benefits in the future such as better renal function, less ace-induced cough (in combination with an ACE-I), and the half life of this medication is phenomenal considering that no other class of antihypertensives even comes close. I know I forget my bp medication all the time. On Tekturna I have CV protection for days when I miss a dose, and we know that with BP being asymptomatic, BP medication is easy to forget.
Comment by Rich — August 31, 2007 @ 11:25 am
Have been on Tekturna about a month. My side effects increase:muscle weakness(have resorted to back brace for temp relief),fatigue,difficult to wake up,mental fog,ache from head to toe,but my top number is now in normal range. Anyone else feeling this way?
Comment by jay — September 2, 2007 @ 5:04 pm
I did not see any sexual side effects mentioned in the literature; this is an important consideration, any data available?
Comment by Marcia — September 5, 2007 @ 5:42 pm
Tekturna is wonderful for people who are allergic to RAAS pathway drugs (ACE inhibitors and ARBs)and who are also allergic to sulfa drugs (and therefore to diuretics). I take Tekturna along with Metoprolol (a beta blocker). I was not allergic to calcium channel blockers but they simply did not lower my systolic number. I am very grateful that Tekturna was discovered because I think my isolated systolic hypertension is due to an overactive RAAS pathway.
Comment by N Stucka — September 5, 2007 @ 9:02 pm
I am very hyper-sensitive to all meds but have high blood pressure. I feel everything……220/140's and UP…I take clonidine in the ER when it's this high…….I have been admited to the hospital twice for high BP..White male, 37 years old……Mom had two heart attacks and both arteries in neck were blocked, dad had triple bypass recently both before age 50..both are thin but smoked……I don't do drugs, smoke,or drink…
I started this drug today (sept 10, 2007 ) and within a half an hr, I am dizzy, sweating really bad, and I have a metallic taste in my mouth, my lips feel a little sunburned, maybe sweeling…
I just stopped micartis hct and I was on Inderal, Norvasc, lotensin, HCT by itself, then Lotrel, then aetenol, Diovan,
the doctors find it easier to seperate the drugs……..all thse drugs cause me to have severe stomach pain and all of them but Inderal and Aetenol made my heart race.
What is funny is that I was on lotrel for years, no side effects…I lost 60lbs, I didn't need it anymore, I found the weight again and started it over, severe headaches, ANXIETY and racing heartbeats…….for 3 weeks…doc is confused!……Gave me Inderal as needed, this caused me to feel like I was having a heart attack everytime I tried to move from a sitting to standing position.
then we seperated the lotrel and used lower doses…NOPE!, BUT>…….the high heart rate made me drop 20lbs quickly..I had to eat 0.05mg of Ativan 3 to 4 times daily to take the anxiety away….but…….before this I was on NO MEDS and weight went from 240 to 300lbs in a year with maijor lifestle chnges, no fast food, I walk daily, no soda, switched from whole milk to 2%, to 1% to skim…weight stayed the same…..no idea why…….trigs went down, chloesterol went down, all blood work is good but weight stays the same,….I barely eat and get full quick…..ultra sounds of belly, ct of belly, found kidney stones…they have passed which caused me to have a UTI for 3 months………..now my docs want to recheck my kidneys due to all this blood presure problem
if anybody has any ideas let me know…Victor….bbailey60@cfl.rr.com
Comment by Victor — September 10, 2007 @ 11:09 am
6pm………….worst medicine ever, I guess it peak is about 3-4 hrs……..severe stomach cramps and then about an hr on the toilet….I barely made it..I have severe pressure in my jaw and my left side of my face is bright red…..blood presure is 134/84/143..pulse is high……..WHY?…….I took ipecap and then activated charcoal but it was too late,….I will never take this medicine again.. I will start my micardis tomorrow without the HCT….I can't handle this…I felt better when I was ready for a stroke..
Comment by Victor — September 10, 2007 @ 6:03 pm
I am interested in hearing if other people have had a decreased sex drive with taking Aliskiren and Valsartan combination. Do taking blood pressure medication have an affect on sex drive?
Comment by lmf — September 11, 2007 @ 8:05 am
Indeed, most BP medications have impotence listed as a side effect; I see it often in my patients, hence the question earlier about the side effect profile for tekturna. Any pharm folk comment?
Comment by Marcia — September 12, 2007 @ 10:14 am
RAAS drugs are the most ED-friendly anti-hypertensives out there, it seems. Especially compared to CCBs, for instance.
In general, restoring the RAAS to normal (rather than hyperactive) function improves endothelial function — a key component in impotence. This is true for both ACE inhibitors as well as ARBs, so it stands to reason that it's a pathway effect, which means aliskiren should follow in the other class' footsteps. This means that symptoms of erectile dysfunction *should* decrease as therapy continues, as opposed to getting worse. Of course, there are always the statistical outliers, and decrease libido does happen in a small minority of patients.
Unless there're things (either good or bad) that we don't know about Tekturna yet that will only come to light as prodigious data are made available over time. (Coxibs and their effect on polyp formation comes to mind.)
As with any drug, the first week is usually the worst in terms of side effects as you and your body adjust.
Comment by RJS — September 12, 2007 @ 10:32 am
hi all
i was on this drug almost 4 weeks,the first time i took it my heart went into tachycardia within 5 hours.i went to ER told me nothing was wrong,doctor said rapid heart rate wasn't a side effect.continued to take it for 25 more days almost went into cardiac arrest palpitations an tach were so bad when i went to ER they had to put me under.told me to discontinue and never take it again.it's been 2 weeks and the palpitations and tach is still there but nothing near the way it was.have had the same effect with ccb's but never this severe i thought my heart would explode i'm diabetic ,hbp, kidney disease (you know the combo meal)the doctor has no idea how long this crap stay's in your system or the damage it may have caused.
Comment by pat edwrads — September 14, 2007 @ 5:09 pm
I want to know about the long tem effect i.e localized production of angiotension II. Just like the ACE escape. If receptor cites are blocked, this alone would be the most potent agent against the effects of angiotension II. I am not against Tekturna- any more weapons are great, but lowering BP alone is the best defense & targeting another pathway CCB would trigger better reductions. Most need volume control so they will be on a diuretic and you know they will be one an ACE or ARb. The best info. we will see will be when ONTARGET comes out.
Comment by micardis the best — September 16, 2007 @ 10:48 pm
I am amazed at the lack of knowledge that is showing up on this site. Mr. RJS…..do your homework. As a pharmacist you were taught to look at the rate inhibiting step. DRI does just this. We have been looking for this for decades and now that it is here we should be blessed to live in a time that we can treat the RAAS in such a complete way. There are thousands out there that are having MI's and massive coronaries each today. If DRI along with ARB's would have been available to them 20 years ago they might be out of the hospital and palying with their grandchildren. PLEASE….PLEASE….do not discount this tool. Watch and see!!! As the massive amounts of data floods out I hope you are hear to eat your words!!!!
Comment by Doc RAAS — September 26, 2007 @ 8:57 pm
Did my homework. Still not impressed. I'm sure the drug works as advertised. There just isn't a niche for it except for those rare folks who can't take an ACEi or an ARB.
Tekturna offers no benefit over ACEi or ARB (or ACEi + ARB). I'm sure there will be an ocean of data that says it's as good as the ACEis or the ARBs. I am skeptical that there will be any data that says Tekturna is better than its competition in head to head trials.
If you come across any, let me know. I'll be waiting. (Probably for a long time.)
Comment by RJS — September 26, 2007 @ 9:08 pm
Dear Dr RAAS, Sorry you are so angry and are sucked into the amount of drug company b.s. that has brainwashed you! Tekturna is a new agent, fine. In studies it will never be compared *statistically* to any other inexpensive/generic drug. In the combination study with HCTZ, it was only better at lowering DBP. However, the placebo response was also very high, so considering the placebo effect only about 1/3 of patients could be considered as responders! The HCTZ group in this study lowered SBP and DBP as much as 150mg and 300mg of tekturna!
Lack of knowledge comes from not being able to critically evaluate the literature. Don't be blinded by the infamous twist that drug companies do to push these agents, this is why we're in the mess that we're in today.
Oh, and the last time I checked a "massive Coronary" is the same as an MI. and if you want to "cut down" Mr. RJS, then learn how to spell HERE (place) HEAR (action).
Comment by aliskiren is a "me too" — September 28, 2007 @ 3:34 pm
Aliskiren as a "me to". AS far as my typo….when you have been on call 24hrs you might tend to have a slip of the finger. Now..pertaining to the data to revealed in regards to DBP reductions in comparing DRI to HCT. First…do you understand the Renin system and its effect on BP. Probably not!! The thing is. We have been chasing numbers for decades and low and behold we have only managed to …say in the HOPE trail benefit about 20% of the patients. Do you understand the problems w/ HCT. Probably not! Until you truly understand what RAAS and GFR ….oh let me stop….. My message to you all non- believers. My thoughts have nothing to do with PHARMA. Keep your eyes and ears….and minds open.
Comment by Doc RAAS — September 28, 2007 @ 5:02 pm
HELLO, I BELEIVE TIME WILL REVEAL THAT THIS RENIN INHIBITOR WILL BE EXTREMELY EFFICACIOUS WITH FAR FEWER SIDE-EFFECTS. UNLIKE THE ACE INHIBITORS AND ANGIOTENSIN RECEPTOR BLOCKERS, A RENIN INHIBITOR PREVENTS THE RATE LIMITING STEP OF CONVERTING ANGIOTENSINOGEN TO ANGIOTENSIN I, WHICH THEN PREVENTS BOTH THE CONVERSION TO ANGIOTENSIN II, REPLACING THE ROLE OF ACE INHIBITORS, AND SECONDLY REPLACING THE NEED FOR AN ANGIOTENSIN RECEPTOR BLOCKER. SO YOU COULD REPLACE SOMEONE ON 2 DRUGS WITH ONE, OR POSSIBLY USE LOW-DOSE STRATEGIES USING ALL 3 MEDICATIONS. BY INHIBITNG A PATHWAY FURTHER UP IN A PATHWAY LEADS TO LOWER DOSES, LESS UNINTENDED SIDE EFFECTS. IN THIS CASE ULTIMATELY THE OBJECTIVE IS TO REDUCE AN OVERSTIMULATED RAAS SYSTEM, WHICH HAS MANY SIDE-EFFECTS, BY REDUCING THE OVERALL AVAILABILITY OF RENIN IN THE PLASMA AND TISSUES THIS WILL EFFECTIVELY EQUILLIBRATE THE RAAS WITHOUT HAVING TO INTERFERE WITH ANGIOTENSIN CONVERTING ENZYME ACTIVITY OR AT-1 RECEPTORS.
Comment by DR. DESANTIS — November 4, 2007 @ 4:39 am
I have been taking Tekturna for 5 weeks — notice that I am nauseated "some times" and not others. I THOUGHT it might be
"uremia" from my CKD but I am beginning to realize that it might be the Tekturna since my kidney function numbers have not changed that much during this time. Any thoughts — I am going to stop taking it (150 mg) and see what happens. I take several other B/P drugs and do not see any difference in the numbers.
Thank you for any information you can give me. I will discuss this with my Nephrologist, as he has just started some of his patients on the drug. Also, I seem to have more problems "after" a higher fat meal. I am also an insulin dependent diabetic.
Comment by Alana — November 4, 2007 @ 10:22 pm
Tried Tekturna for just about 5 weeks (300mg) as 150mg did nothing to lower pressure. Dr said my body would adjust to it, but have severe dirareha each and every day while taking it. It was so bad at times that i would not go anywhere unless I knew there was a mens room nearby, Dr seemed like oh you get use to it and dismissed it, never got use to it never had real large blood pressure drop and it never lasted more then a few hours not the 24hrs they said it should.
Comment by artie — November 10, 2007 @ 11:52 pm
I was having terrible headaches from the base of my neck, over the top of my head down to my left eye. I thought they were headaches and would take high doses of acetimenphen to ty and get rid of the headache. Would not go away so I do see y doctor finally. He diagnoses HBP and prescribes Tekturna. Within 24 hours the pain in my head is gone and I feel like a new person. I was irratable and was snapping at my employee's and now I don't feel like I did. Thank you for Tekturna. It probably saved me from a stroke or worse.
Comment by John — November 21, 2007 @ 9:42 am
I have been taking Tekturna for 2 months in combination w/furosemide. It has kept my BP under control. I was on Lotrel, which controlled my BP but my ankles swelled to watermelon size- hence the furosemide. No side effects since starting the Tekturna, my ankles are back to normal and we're going to try stopping the furosemide. has anyone heard any bad things about the drug?
Comment by linda — November 29, 2007 @ 6:39 am
started taking tektuna 45 days ago, 150mg seems to be working great pb is better than it as been in years, having one concern I,am coughing alot have heard of any other cases of bad coughing.
Comment by David — December 1, 2007 @ 1:54 pm
Furosemide is often used as needed for fluid retention. I'd probably look to take Lotrel and then furosemide as needed. Way cheaper than Tekturna.
Comment by RJS — December 3, 2007 @ 11:44 pm
Diovan HCT kept my bp under control for many years. Suddenly shot up in August 2007. Dr told me about a new drug called TekTurna that was supposed to work when others didn't. Wow, it was great for about two weeks, but with side effects such as fatigue, coughing. Soon the Side effects were taking control of my life. Could hardly get out of bed, then they started decreasing. About the same time that the side effects decreased, BP has gradually gone back up, and the last two weeks has been WAY high, taking diovan AND tekturna. By the time I got to the Dr it was 184/120. Dr told me he wasn't surprised as the TekTurna was not doing much for any of his other patients either. I HATED Tekturna. My Dr told me to throw it in the garbage, and he didn't think that he would ever prescribe it again, but keep the Diovan and see what my new meds will do.
Comment by Stacey — December 13, 2007 @ 5:16 pm
I have been taking Tekturna for about six months..150 mg. My BP was not controlled so my dr. increased my dose to 300 mg. Since then, the BP is down, but I have swollen ankles and broke out in a rash on both legs from the knees down. I wonder if this is a side effect of the increased dosage or if it is something else. I do not have any cardiac problems and have been checked for DVTs and have none.
Comment by Joy — December 15, 2007 @ 2:25 pm
Doc recommended Tekturna to help control bp that sometimes got too high. After taking two pills, i was rushed by ambulance to the ER with itching, swollen tongue, red rash, burning in my head, labored breathing, heart palpitations, nausea, and severe weakness. Before taking Tekturna, i was very healthy except for bp. I now require round the clock care. It has been 3 weeks since this episode, and my head yet feels like it is going to explode, and like someone lit a fire in my skull. My vision is blurry, I have chest pains, tightness in my jaws, redness of my face…been rushed to the hospital several times, almost died several times. Three weeks later I am fighting for my life from the effects of this drug. Worst drug ever. If a doc ever prescribes this med to me again, I will turn and run as fast as I can.
Comment by elma — December 16, 2007 @ 1:29 am
elma,
I hope that you informed your doctor and your pharmacist that you are apparently allergic to Tekturna so that they can make a note in your records. Unfortunately, these things are impossible to predict, so there was really no way of avoiding what happened — medication allergies are trial and error. There's no other way to know.
And of course no doctor is going to prescribe Tekturna for you again. I hope you didn't dump your doctor over what happened — bad things happen in medicine outside everyone's control, and it's ultimately no one's fault.
Comment by RJS — December 17, 2007 @ 10:57 pm
Hi,
I'm currently studying tekturna. It is not more efficacious than the drugs currently out there however it seems to have an "arb-like" placebo-like safety profile.
The 24 hour control because of the high TPR and 40 hour half life does make sense… however, i was wondering, in the mass majority of the studies they used to meassure the hypotensive effect they used msDBP and msSBP at trough… 24 hours since the last dose.. so if they found that at trough aliskiren and whatever else they were meassuring up against was the same even if let's say lisinopril which doesn't have a vaunted 24 hour control advertisement… what would that mean? I'm not saying to argue, I know that the 2 day fade out is genuine and a definite plus to this drug but day to day, morning hypertension, if in the morning at trough both drugs meassured the same, what would that mean?
Comment by student — January 30, 2008 @ 7:35 am
I started Tekturna this week. I cannot take other BP meds - ALL gave me pretty bad sides, including NOTICEABLE memory loss!
Here's hoping Tek works - Dr says we are out of options….
Chotty
Comment by chotty — January 31, 2008 @ 12:00 am
I just started Tekturna-blood pressure still hasn't
come down-running 140/68/62 Very tired-ache all over especially in back of neck
Comment by Carol Federspill — February 23, 2008 @ 4:19 pm
While i dont have high BP (average 140/85)i have just been diagnosed with several coronary narrowings. What about Tekturna as an anti plaque agent.I am researching alternatives to by-pass and stenting procedures.Found an article which describes excellent figures in reducing cholesterol using this drug.Any info?
Comment by Chris Chugg — March 14, 2008 @ 1:21 am
I started Tekturna today after failing on a bunch of drugs. Also trying CPAP sleeping device in a few weeks (not overweight, have some apnea). Treating my blood pressure has been awful. Wish me luck on the latest. Diovan HCT was a total disaster: big bloated and distended stomach despite vigorous workouts/muscle aches due to potassium loss (which no one told me to replace). HCTZ alone: massive weight gain, especially in stomach. Lotrel: cough so bad I couldn't sleep. Diovan alone: Huge weight gain, especially with bloated stomach. Coreg: Dizziness so bad I couldn't work at computer; constant hunger and insomnia. Amlodipine 10: anxiety, depression. Amlodipine 5: somewhat tolerated but hair loss and cough! Micardis: MASSIVE weight gain that have taken me a month to lose with diet and workouts. Is it normal for people's stomach's to balloon out on BPMs? My doc says this shouldn't happen but it is. I cannot seem to tolerate blood pressure medicines. Is this normal? I know I can't have high blood pressure but the medicines are AWFUL.
Comment by Rick Bradley — March 14, 2008 @ 9:52 pm
I have been on tekturna 1 year now. I had such a hard time on so many other medications with side effects etc. It was a a hard time . I was put on Tekturna the month it became available. This medication is working very well with no side effects at all. I do need to take clondine patch as well- but my BP is now under control- and in the evenings rather low.
Comment by Debbie — March 14, 2008 @ 10:07 pm
I have ben taking tekturna for about a week. I have dizziness and today was so tired, slept most of the day. I am also experience a tight chest and anxiety. I was hoping this drug would work. It seemed to in the beginnin but now I have my doubts. Tried many other bp meds. Need to reevaluate this drug.
Comment by linda — March 16, 2008 @ 2:51 am
Experiencing dizziness and anxiety. I began Tekturna about a week ago. Are these common symptoms? Have tried several other meds no luck. Might try going back on lotrel. The swelling was a pain but I tolerated the drug better than the others.
Comment by linda — March 16, 2008 @ 2:54 am
Linda, one option is to try taking medicine at night if it makes you dizzy by day.
I have been on Tekturna three days now — really too early to tell anything. I have failed on so many drugs due to miserable side effects that I am going to give it at least 2-3 weeks to see if it moves the needle on blood pressure. Hasn't done anything yet but I am hypertensive so I need to be patient. I did feel depressed today but given some stuff in my life it's hard to tell if Tekturna had anything to do with it.
Comment by Rick Bradley — March 16, 2008 @ 8:13 pm
In response to Rick Bradleys weight gain comments. I experienced the same thing on the same BP meds. The only one I lost weight on was Lisinopril… but that weight loss was due to it causing me to vomit as many as 15 times per day!
No one has ever told me to replace potassium on any of my meds. I've now been diagnosed with hypothyroid and wonder if the BP meds are to blame.
Comment by Barbara E — March 17, 2008 @ 6:12 pm
In response to Barabara, lisinopril does not reduce potassium levels. Vomiting does, however! Also, if you are of a "certain age", like me, fluctuating hormones and hypothyroidism seem to go together for many women. I hope you are feeling better.
Comment by Patty — March 17, 2008 @ 7:46 pm
I don't know much, but I do know I was on Norvasc for years and it hardly made a dent in my high bp. Tekturna put me through a month of side effects before I felt normal again, but my blood pressure is perfect now.
I don't know if there are more natural ways of going about such a change, but shy of finding out this drug has destroyed my internal organs or something, I've got no complaints.
Comment by Jefferay — March 22, 2008 @ 1:19 pm
Seriously though, knowing what I now know about drug companies, I do with I wasn't taking such a new drug. It seems like they get approved and the first 5-10 years are just an expanded trial.
As great as Tekturna works for me, I am a little afraid it could be dangerous in other ways, especially since they're touting it as a "first of its kind" treatment.
Comment by Jefferay — March 22, 2008 @ 1:23 pm
I was on Tekturna 300 mg since Jan. I liked it since I didn't have "fuzzy brain" like I did with others bp meds. About that time, my back started hurting and then near where my gallbladder had been (gone since '99). I felt like my gallbladder was back. lost 10 lbs, constant diarrhea, couldn't lay on my right side. All my labs came back normal. Finally went to gastro and over the advice of my regular doc, went off Tekturna. With 24 hrs i felt almost new again. Returned to taking verapamil and now my facial flushing and burning is back. any advice?
Comment by Vicki — April 3, 2008 @ 7:44 pm
I NOTICED HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE IS A SYMPTOM OF HYPOTHYROIDISM AND ALSO PRE-DIABETIS….SYNTHROID CORRECTS THE HYPOTH.PROBLEM AND ELIMINATES THE EFFECTS….HOWEVER,A CONDITION SUCH AS H PYLORI PREVENTS YOUR MEDICINE FROM WORKING EFFECTIVELY…THUS WE HAVE SYMPTOMS OF ORIGINAL DISEASE RE APPEAR….I ASSUME AN INEFFECTIVE DIGESTIVE OR METABOLLIC PROCESS WOULD BE EVEN MORE NEGATIVE TO CONTROLLING BP WITH MEDICINES PRESCRIBED….WHY ISN'T THERE A MEDICAL SERVICE COORDINATING ALL OF THESE POTENTIAL PROBLEMS….ANYBODY CAN PRESCRIBE DRUGS…BUT NO SEEMS TO THINK PAST THAT…WE NEED HELP
Comment by jerry — April 7, 2008 @ 8:51 am
Is renin/RAAS completly bad? I don't think so. It's a result of the selection of Nature from millions years. Maybe it has some certain unknown important roles. I don't think Aliskiren is too good. Moreover, it's a… reverse evolution ^.^
Look:
1.stimulate non-selective alpha&beta receptor (adrenalin) –> non-selective beta (isoprenalin) –> selective beta2 (salbutamol, terbutalin…)
2. non-selective COX inbihitors (aspirin, diclofenac…) –> selective COX-2 (meloxicam, nimesulid…) –> high selective COX-2 (celecoxib, rofecoxib…)
But how about this:
ACE inbihitors –> ARBs –> … DRI (Aliskiren) ??????? ^.^'
Likewise, in the future, there will be have a new bp drug which inhibit the act of… adrenalin ^.^
…
It's a concession step of the progression
HAHAHAHAHA……..
Comment by Anakin 8X — May 7, 2008 @ 11:34 am
I started taking 150mg of Tekturna on Friday night. Every day I always drink lots of water because (1) I live in a dry climate to stay hydrated and (2) I have one kidney. Because of the drinking of the water, I have to go to the "john" about every 2-3 hrs. Since starting this medication, I'm lucky if I've gone 3 times in one day!!! This REALLY WORRIES me since I'm supposed to drink lots of water to keep my kidney in good working order. I also have not seen any reduction in my BP numbers and I have these terrible headaches just before I get up in the morning - the same type of headaches I got last year just before I ended up losing my kidney!! Is this normal? Should I stop taking the medication? My endocrinologist (I'm a diabetic) prescribed this med for me along with a new diabetes medication that comes with its own long list of side effects (this is a whole other story!!). I also take Clonidine 0.1mg and Avapro (I think 300mg).
Comment by Chloe — May 19, 2008 @ 6:58 pm
I've been on Tekturna for two weeks. I've tried all the different types of BP medications and have had awful side effects from them all as well as an allergic reaction to Diovan. Tekturna is definitely controlling my BP but all of a sudden on Saturday I started developing a rash–first on my right arm, then my left. Today I noticed that I'm getting a rash on my legs from the knee down. HELP!!!! What should I do? The Tekturna is working on my BP and other than the rash, I'm not experiencing any other side effects.
Comment by Judy — June 9, 2008 @ 6:21 pm
That's an allergic reaction… you should stop taking the Tekturna and contact your doctor. In terms of immediate severity, allergic reactions are more dangerous than chronic hypertension.
Comment by RJS — June 9, 2008 @ 7:47 pm
Has anyone started taking 150mg of Tekturna and then increased to 300mg of Tekturna? If so, what happened? Any sort of side effects? Are there any side effects that are not listed on the Tekturna website that people are experiencing? If so, what are they? Do you find that Tekturna controls your blood pressure all day long or are there certain times of the day that it goes higher? I'm finding that Tekturna is controlling my pressure really well until I go out to do physical activity during the afternoon; when I take my pressure upon return, it's up—then a few hours later, it goes back to an acceptable level. Looking forward to hearing from as many people as possible.
Comment by Judy — June 18, 2008 @ 6:37 pm
After 3 horrible months of hacking cough, nausea,sleepless nights, extreme lethargy, running nose, belly ache, distended belly…I discovered on Monday that I wasn't having the World's longest allergy attack or flu, but that I was having a reaction to lisinopril. So, I researched it when I got home, and the reviewers described all of the same symptoms. Mine came on gradually and I had been in an accident, so I just didn't put it all together.
Went to visit my neighbor who just got home from the hospital today after even MORE tests after five months of seeing doctors for heartburn that wasn't responding to anything, diahrrea, coughing, hoarseness, swollen belly, leg pains, extreme lethargy, vomiting, sleeplessness and depression. Only to figure out this morning that she was the victim of this new wonder drug–tekturna, which she was taking 300 mg a day of. She lost 27 pounds that she could ill afford to lose.
Needless to say, she won't be taking any more.
My point is, what is the solution–especially when all of my research shows the companies and the press downplay the side affects on their sites, and the public is lulled into thinking these drugs are OK and if not, something is wrong with THEM!
Doctors who dispense these meds need to be more thorough with their patients in explaining the possible side affects–and patients should read everything that comes with their meds from the pharmacy. I have found so many patient reviews outlining the difficulties with the two aforementioned meds and teckturna's sister med, diovan. And the laundry list is incredible and so strikingly similar in all of them. Obviously none of us were their test patients.
From now on, I'm not taking anything without checking it out and having a conversation with my doc and pharmacist.
Comment by Sandra — June 19, 2008 @ 4:44 pm
After searching for days to learn of patient responses to Tekturna, I finally came across this site. Thank you.
I had severe angioedema 12 years ago that swelled my throat so much that I could not breathe. The miracle drug honey, yes, bees honey, saved me. If I would have waited for an ambulance I would have died (could not phone for one anyway because my throat was so swollen I could not utter a sound). Don't ask me what I was on at that time — was given a new BP med every week.
Was successfully on Lisinopril for the past 4 years but upon taking Sulfasalzine for arthritis my eyelid swelled. The allergist said it wasn't the Sulfa but the Lisinopril so I was taken off and put on Diovan. My BP readings soared, as high as 200/100. Never went down. Then another M.D. added Normadyne. What junk! Started itching all over, especially my scalp. Taken off and put on Norvasc + Diovan. Still felt like crap. In the meantime the eye swelled up again, this time attributed to the Sulfasalazne. Finally taken off Sulfa so I asked about going back to Lisinopril. Instead I was told to stop everything and take Tekturna. I am really afraid to take something so new that there hasn't been enough time to give it a thorough investigation. I am beginning to think it is just something hyped up to profit the big Pharms.
Comment by Nancy — June 24, 2008 @ 4:48 pm
I can understand why your physician prescribed tekturna because he wanted to give you something which had the potential for the least interactions with other products. You should be thankful that your physician is prepared to consider new and excellent products and not experiment with such things as betablockers, a blockers and diuretics.
You have a good physician.
Comment by David Fell — June 26, 2008 @ 3:13 pm
I have now been on Tekturna for a little over a year. Zero side effects and it is working well. I had tried so many other types of BP meds with so many side effects and little results that my cardiologist asked me to try tekturna. I was hesitant to try a new drug.. and I still worry a bit but I am doing well and all labs came back looking great.
Comment by Debbie — June 26, 2008 @ 3:30 pm
DRUG REP ALERT.
Comment by RJS — June 26, 2008 @ 4:02 pm
You are a drug rep for Tekturna?
Comment by Debbie — June 26, 2008 @ 4:08 pm
No, but David reads like one.
Comment by RJS — June 26, 2008 @ 4:56 pm
RJS,
I started reading thru the threads on Tekturna and you seem very knowledgable. I felt better reading your comments thanks. I am doing so well on Tekturna I just worry as it is so new- but I figure all drugs are new at first and so many do work. I wish I had found this thread a year ago when I had been put on so many meds I lost count with awful side effects and intolerances.
Comment by Debbie — June 26, 2008 @ 5:41 pm
Much earlier on these threads RJS mentioned that RAAS drugs were safest to control BP. What are RAAS?
I just hate BP medication. This Tekturna worries me because I am so sensitive to chemicals and my doctor treats me like I am some kind of a needless worrier. However, I will NEVER forget my awful experience when my throat swelled up and I felt like I was being choked to death from what I think was a CCB.
Some people posted earlier comments about some scarey adverse side effects with Tekturna. I wish that they would give more details if they found something that helped them out.
I have read Dr. Weil (who is opposed to Tekturna) and Dr. DeVries and Dr. Sinatra who have written books about alternative treatments like diet, exercise, etc. But, with my high BP I need something else. I take fish oil, exercise, good diet, etc., etc. It is weird that the docs just keep changing the pills and say "come back in 2 weeks". What if I have an adverse side-effect before that?
Comment by Nancy — June 26, 2008 @ 10:49 pm
Nancy,
I too had similar problems- Sudden onset very hard to control BP and put on medication after medication with severe side effects and uncontrolled BP. I had a corneal bleed and lost some vision in one eye ( did return) . During this time I also had surgery and was thrown into menopause rapidly so I was anxious, flashing and thrown into my first ever depression. It was trial and error time and I had a steep learning curve. I was put on every kind of BP med Calcium channel and Beta blockers, ACE, ARBs, Diruetics,Hormones, antidepressants etc. The intolerances and mixing of medications was a nightmare. I am a person who seldom drinks, avoided any kind of drug and preferred herbs when I could , great diet , excercised, bought organic foods, even drive a prius
I had severe BP episodes of where my BP would spike very high BP on meds for no reason so they began looking for a specific type of tumor- I was scanned, probed and put through every type of test you can imagine- Nothing could be found. Thank goodness for good insurance!
They finally put me on the clonidine patch and things started to come down but I needed more help. I tried hawthorne and other herbs with no results. Doctor gave me Tekturna, I was worried and expressed that but it worked within 2 weeks and had no side effects. I weaned myself off the antidepressant and all other medications except the 2 BP meds. I am amazed and have no clue why Tekturna worked for me when the ACE or ARBs did not. I am so much better.
I did go see an accupuncturist at the same time and continue to see her every 3 weeks. I was very skeptical but I am amazed at how much it is helping. I started meditating and going through daily relaxation technigues. Also new.
I am greatful, yet still cautious. I go in next week for my 6th month check up with the cardiologist. Been on Tekturna 1 year now. Any questions I should ask?
Debbie
Comment by Debbie — June 27, 2008 @ 12:05 am
Is anyone else experiencing the stomach discomfort caused by Tekturna and if so, what are you doing about it?
Comment by Judy — July 6, 2008 @ 7:21 am
Stomach discomfort: Not sure what type of stomach discomfort you are having. It makes me go to the bathroom (absolutely the opposite of constipation) and I was told to take Immodioum. More drugs! Said that Pepto Bismo didn't work as well.
I do have feelings of heartburn. I take Zertec with the the Tekturna.
Just had the Metabolic panel blood test and everything was normal. I think my high BP might be totally stress induced + strong family history of hypertension, stroke and heart attacks.
BP was getting a bit better but this morning it was 176/86, so its the same old, same old.
Comment by Nancy — July 6, 2008 @ 2:38 pm
Thanks for answering so quickly!!! I get pains in my stomach/lower abdomen. I'd hate to have to take MORE drugs to deal with it!!! I know just what you mean…. I think my hypertension is caused by the same thing as yours…I can't lose any weight,(I weigh under 100 lbs.), I can't alter my diet,(I eat a heart healthy diet), I exercise at least once a day if not more…. How long have you been on the Tekturna? I find it controls my BP for probably 20 out of every 24 hours… I'm on the 150mg tablet… Judy
Comment by Judy — July 6, 2008 @ 6:18 pm
Judy,
Yes, I had the stomach problems, also felt like I had the flu all of the time along with dizziness and heart palpitations. My solution was to quit taking Tekturna. Finally, what I think was the placebo effect, quit working and BP went up so I went to the Dr and said no more, this stuff is crap. He agreed and said that was basically the response from all of his patients so throw it in the garbage. He then put me on Exforge (Diovan and Norvasc). It worked, but still felt like a milder case of the flu, edema in the legs and suddenly started going to the bathrom 10-12 times a night (no matter when I took the tablet). Still had the heart palpitations, maybe even more. It may have been the Exforge, maybe the lack of sleep. Finally told the Dr and he put me back on the Diovan that I had successfuly taken for years only a higher dosage. Hallelujah, edema was gone in two days and so was the nocturia. My BP is also 119/81 average. The point is, keep going to your Dr until you find the right thing. Everyone does not need the same thing. I hated Tekturna and Exforge, other people hate Diovan. My body is not your body and vice versa. Just keep trying until you find what works and I can almost guarantee that at some point you will have to try something else again. Good luck.
Comment by Stacey — July 7, 2008 @ 1:16 pm
Yes I think we need Tekturna. I have tried so many blood pressure medicines and had bad side effects to full
blown allergic reactions to them. I am also alergic to sulfa so
can't take diuretics. So far Tekturna is working fine.
Comment by Sue — July 11, 2008 @ 5:31 pm
Sue,
I am also allergic to sulfa drugs but also couldn't take diuretics because I have Sjogrens - a syndrome that causes me to have extremely dry eyes, throat etc… I couldn't take medications that dry me out further. And like you Tekturna is working well after a long period of terrible side effects and poor results with so many others. How long have you been on it? What does schedule are you on?
Debbie
Comment by Debbie — July 12, 2008 @ 12:28 am
Has anyone had any experience with taking something like Xanax or Vallium or an anti-depressant to lower the stress levels that might be causing the spike in blood pressure?
On occasion, when I haven't been able to sleep I take 1/2 of the lowest dose of Xanax. It knocks me out right away. However, since I am sensitive to everything I haven't tried a stronger dose or a daily 1/2 dose.
I know we are all different but does anyone know of a medication that might safely help in that respect? Or, is meditation or massage better?
Comment by Nancy — July 12, 2008 @ 10:42 am
Nancy,
During my 2 years now with high BP I have tried a few new strategies in addition to medications. I have had very good results - slowly however and not enough to get off my BP meds but have been able to reduce the dosage. I was able to get off all the other meds. Originally I was a skeptic of meditation and acupuncture but my GP , cardiologist and then therapist recommended both due to problems I was having with increased anxiety ( also new) in part due to going thru the 'change'after a hysterectomy and hormonal fluctuations. The interesting thing is that the severe hot flashes, sudden 'malignant' high BP ( meaning it was not controlled) and severe anxiety all happened around the same time period. I was a mess. In emergency rooms, up at Stanford etc. AS I mentioned before the arsenal of medications were used and side effects were awful and BP was not controlled. I was also put briefly on Lexapro and xanax which helped as I learned other strategies. I was off the lexapro in 3 months. I take xanax like you as needed at the lowest dose. I am not on any hormone therapies . Anyway, I began meditating and using a device called an EMWAVE to help me learn how to breath and calm myself. INCREDIABLE results- my GP and cardiologist bought one and went to trainings about it. I then moved into daily relaxation and meditation with positive statements and my BP can now drop up to 20 points when I have a high 'spike'. It has taken me a year to get to this level. I also started accupuncture a year ago. Again skeptical but wanting to get off the meds. I am impressed and surprised. I go religiously and am amazed at how well I am doing and how it has helped. I have had slow but steady improvement.
I also have troubles sleeping and now use that time to meditate. Overall, meditation and accupuncture has made a big difference.
Debbie
Comment by Debbie — July 12, 2008 @ 11:12 am
was bumped up to 300 mg by my Doctor after a bp reading of 160/90/74 I take diovan and toprol xl also. After 1 week at 300 mg my lower back and right side where my gall bladder used to be started to ache. skipped a day of Tekturna and the pain diminished. BP was averaging 150/84/70 yesterday so I need to do something to get it back to acceptable levels
Comment by Walter — July 25, 2008 @ 8:36 am
After going for a BP check on Thursday, my BP was 180/72 so my Tekturna was increased from 150 to 300 with the HCT. I was given samples, but, I don't want to take it. Look at the RXList site about Tekturna HCT, it is really bad stuff.
On top of that, the nurse does the BP check and then reports to the cardiologist. I never see the cardiologist, just the nurse and SHE decides on the treatment, then contacts the MD to confirm.
No more! I am seeing another MD Tues if I don't have a stroke over the weekend. Wish me luck!
Comment by Nancy — July 26, 2008 @ 2:01 am
A daily dose of 150 mg of Tektkurna for a year to lower blood pressure has apparently caused gout with severe pain in both big toes and the right index finger. Has anyone else developed gout as a result of taking this drug?
Comment by Renee — July 29, 2008 @ 8:03 am
I would be looking for other causes of gout before pointing the finger at Tekturna.
Comment by RJS — July 29, 2008 @ 8:23 am
HELP! MY WIFE HAS HAS ISSUES WITH HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE FOR THE PAST 7 YEARS, SWITCHING MEDICATION ON AND OFF DUE TO SIDE EFFECTS AND NOT WORKING AFTER SEVERAL MONTHS.
ABOUT SIX MONTHS AGO OUR DOCTOR RECOMMENDED TEKTURNA 150 MG/DAILY AND NOW AFTER SEVERAL MONTHS MY WIFE IS EXPERIENCING VARIOUS SIDE EFFECTS TO INCLUDE HEADACHES, NUMBNESS IN HER ARMS AND LEGS, AND A TINGLING FEELING CONSTANTALLY ALL OVER HER BODY.
HAS ANYONE ELSE NOTICED THESE TYPE OF EFFECTS/REACTIONS AFTER TAKING TEKTURNA AFTER SEVERAL WEEKS?
Comment by Thom — August 1, 2008 @ 9:20 pm
I have well controlled BP- using Norvasc (10mg), toprol XL (200mg) and Diovan hct 320/25). My doc said I should try Teknurna which I have ben on for about amonth. My question is - I have 4 months of Diovan left before I switched to the Tekturna. Can I go back to use up the Diovan ( I am getting close to donut hole) and then go back to the tekturna?
Also, I have a post nasa drip for about 4 months and doc has had me on antibiotics which did nothing - now I am on nasonex and Singulair. Can this be caused by any BP meds?
Thanks — Steve
Comment by steve lawrence — August 8, 2008 @ 6:49 pm
One poster taking tekturna reported muscle pain. I am taking tekturna hct 300/25 together with dynacirc cr 10 mg.
I have noticed a pronounced increase in lower back pain and joint pain since teckturna was added to my daily regimen. I am wondering if this drug combo is a wise decision.
One of the difficulties with multiple BP meds is the absence of side effects on drugs taken in combination.
Anyone else out there experiencing pain with tekturna?
Comment by fdm — August 12, 2008 @ 8:42 am
I have taken 300 mg of Tekturna for about 6 months. Previously I had been given Divan, Lisinopril, etc, and had almost immediate side affect. During the last two weeks my muscles been painful and sor and my low back has constantly ached. When I lie down or sit down I am in pain. Paint medications do no help. This is Sunday and tonight I will not take the Tekturna. It has been my policy not to take any medication unless it has been on the market for five years or longer. I will stay with this in the future.
Comment by pat — August 17, 2008 @ 12:10 pm
I was prescribed 150mg of Tekturna today for HBP. I was on Lotensin (ACE) for 6 years and it caused horrible depression and I didnt even realize that was the culprit until I went off it a few months ago. My cardiologist switched me to a calcium channel blocker and immediately notced I felt fantastic–elivated mood, desire to exercise again and increased interest in my normal hobbies, etc. I felt like my old self again. BUT–it caused edema. My feet blew up and my throat felt tight and restricted. So, they tinkered and toyed with various different calcium channel blockers and then put me back on Lotensin. Within two weeks I felt like I was falling into a horrible depression again. I would rather not take anything than feel that blue. So–we are going to try Tekturna. I am hoping it works for me. I am running out of choices. I even offered to be a guinea pig for the HBP vaccine that is being worked on. I hope Tekturna works for me.
Comment by JMK — August 18, 2008 @ 6:37 pm
Good luck with the Tekturna. I've been on it 2 months now.
Have tried everything in the book and I'm either allergic to it
or some bad reaction
So far Tekturna doesn't seem to have any side effects at 300mg,
but my BP is not down as much as it should. I'm sticking with
it for now.
Comment by Sue — August 18, 2008 @ 7:46 pm
What tests have people had for their hypertension? I have been on 150 Tekturna + 5 Norvasc. Not any side effects except occasional fluid in under my eyes when I wake up in the morning. BP still very high. This Thursday I will have a Renal Arterial Stenosis Ultrasound to see if I have kidney problems.
Is anyone familiar with this test? What tests have people had to rule out secondary causes of their hight BP?
Comment by Nancy — August 20, 2008 @ 12:34 am
Nancy–I had the Renal Arterial Stenosis Ultrasound within a week or so of my HBP being discovered. It's totally non-invasive, although I could have lived without the prep:) Yes they were looking for kidney problems. I've also been on a 24 hour BP monitor and had two 24 hour urine samples analysed as well as the usual blood work. I've been on Tekturna 150 since June. I've had less side effects with the Tekturna than any of the multiple other BP drugs I tried, although it is not perfect.
Comment by Judy — August 20, 2008 @ 6:23 am
I just had a follow up doctor appointment after being on Tekturna for a bit over 1 year. Extensive blood and urine work up-all came back perfect. Cholesterol went down too- although wasn't very high to start. Still no side effects and BP is controlled when no other BP med worked.I will be tapering back from 300 MG a day to 150 as BP is often now too low. I did ask the doctor the benefit that renin had on the body and the effects of a total blocking of renin in the body. He said it was a very good question- but didn't answer me. Anyone know the answer?
Comment by Debbie — August 20, 2008 @ 9:17 am
Nancy,
I had a kidney angiogram, treadmill tests with die, CT scans and a special MRI looking for a small pheo tumor that secrets cortisol and other hormones that raise BP. Initially I had 'malignant BP' meaning it went fron very normal to very high suddenly and wasn't responding to medications so they thought I had this pheo tumor. All came back fine and the hardest part of the tests was being still in the machine. For the angiogram, I was in a hospital given a wonderful coctail that kept me relaxed but somewhat aware. It was actually interesting.
Comment by Debbie — August 20, 2008 @ 9:24 am
Nancy,
I had a kidney angiogram, treadmill tests with dye, CT scans and a special MRI looking for a small pheo tumor that secrets cortisol and other hormones that raise BP. Initially I had 'malignant BP' meaning it went fron very normal to very high suddenly and wasn't responding to medications so they thought I had this pheo tumor. All came back fine and the hardest part of the tests was being still in the scanning machines for so long- I am a bit claustrophobic. For the angiogram, I was in a hospital given a wonderful coctail that kept me relaxed but somewhat aware. It was actually interesting.
Comment by Debbie — August 20, 2008 @ 9:26 am
response to Debbie re: what is renin. See this web page for info on renin http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Renin
Comment by fdm — August 20, 2008 @ 9:38 am
hi Guys:
I just started Tekturna 150mg last week. I also take Cartia 300mg and Benacar. I have had HBP for 20 some years.
Today, after physical therapy (I had back surgery 4 months ago) that my BP was all the way down to 80/50 AFTER EXERCISE!
When I first started taking Tekturna, I felt drunk and my speech was slurred. I hope my body gets use to this drug soon!!!!
Chuck
Comment by chuck — August 22, 2008 @ 1:39 pm
I am still on Tekturna + Norvasc. BP somewhate lowered but not great 142/77 average. Does anyone know about that little square thing (maybe a preservative) that comes in the Tekturna script? My latest refill didn't have it and I read somewhere that it was important to keep it in there. Should I contact the pharmacist about it?
Comment by Nancy — September 6, 2008 @ 12:26 am
It's just a silica gel absorbent cylinder/packet that absorbs any moisture that might get into the bottle to ruin the integrity of the tablets. This is particularly important if you store your tablets in a humid area (like the bathroom).
It's harmless; it just keeps the tablets fresh. Throw it away when you're done. In the pharmacy, we actually throw them away as soon as we open a new bottle because they can interfere with getting the tablets out of the bottle, but the pharmacy is also kept at a controlled temperature and humidity, so we don't have to worry about such things as much.
Comment by RJS — September 6, 2008 @ 10:13 am