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
Hi listers,
I'm glad I ran across this forum this morning. I wish I would have searched for it sooner. You all have validated all of my suspicions and questions.
I also have high BP, which seems to be quite erratic at times as well. I have been taking my bp every morning and evening and keeping the results in a log. I've had two heart attacks in 2007 – one in April, and one in August. In June, 2008 I thought I was having another one, but it was high bp that was the culprit of me going to the ER.
BP info:
The average is 160/115.
Highs are 190/140, and
Lows are 120/112.
Pulse averages at 110-120.
Last April, when I had a major heart attack, my BP (taken by the ambulance EMT kid) was 290/190. That's not a typo (and I also saw the "white light"). It was a frightening experience. I am 43 now, average in every way, 5'11", 185, not overweight, and I play softball every weekend. There seems to be no explanation for my high bp, except that it does run in my family.
In August, 2007, I had the same issue. I went to the ER, was admitted, and had a stent installed in one of my arteries. When it was over, the cardiologist told me (actually scorned me-it seemed like he was implying that his time and efforts were just wasted) that he didn't see anything wrong with my heart nor arteries, and I should ask my regular doctor about investigating a possible ulcer that was causing me pain. What a jerk he was (Dr. Chen of St. Joseph's in Atlanta).
These are the BP drugs my doctor has precribed for me, and the results:
1) Lisinopril 10mg 1x a day: BAD.
This drug seemed to lower my bp to an average of about 143/112. However, for many weeks I felt fatigued/tired, diahrrea, and brain-foggy. It was awful. I couldn't focus on anything, and spent the days wondering what to do. I just sat there at my desk at work, trying to focus and figure out what I should be doing. In fact, looking back now, I am sure that if I had my wits about me, I'd have quit taking it sooner, but this pill made me lose control over my good sense (i.e., brain-fog).
I told my boss about the situation, and he snapped at me and told me to drink more coffee if I felt tired and was having trouble focusing. Ugh.
2) Zetia 10mg 1x a day: BAD
This was an add-on bp drug that I was supposed to take in addition to the Lisinopril, since Lisinopril was bringing the bp down only a little bit. This one made my heart race, and gave me high anxiety. I felt like I was on the edge, and ready to argue with anyone who got near me. I quit taking this one after three days.
3) Norvasc (Amlodipine) 5mg 1x a day: BAD.
I took the first pill at night just before bed. When I woke up, my right eye was swollen shut and I had eye mucus all over my eye, face, and pillow. During the day, the swelling went down. I thought it might have been because I let the dogs sleep in the room with me, and something in the air caused me to have an allergic reaction. I took the second pill the second evening, and when I woke up the right eye was swollen shut again, much mucus again, and the left eye and forehead were swollen. I had to take a vacation day off from work. I quit taking this pill immediately, and it took about two weeks for the eye swelling to go away. Of course, I didn't take my bp for several days because I was preoccupied with the eye and facial swelling situation.
4) Clonidine 0.1mg 2x a day: BAD
I was taking this one twice a day, and quit taking it in the morning after two mornings. This pill makes me extremely tired, so I only took it at night before bedtime. Within 30 minutes of taking it, I was off to bed because it made me so sleepy. No change in bp readings from the average.
At this point in my bp medicine-taking drug career, I was getting used to noticing differences from the (my) normalcy pretty easily.
5) Benicar 20mg 1x a day: BAD
Either the Lisinopril residue in my body was now gone, or the Benicar didn't have the "brain-fog" side effect on me. I felt alert and aware again after taking this one. Hooray! Heart palitations and chest pains – in the exact same place it hurt when I had the first heart attack in April, 2007. No change in bp readings from the average.
6) Nitroglycerine tablets 0.1 mg as needed:
I'm having to take a 0.1 mg of nitro tablet to stop the heart/chest pains. This little thing gives me a Major rush, tons of dizziness and bad headaches. I was taking three of these in a 2 hour period, to stop the chest pains. The doc's nurse told me that if I had to take more than 2, I should go to the ER. I asked her, "what are they going to do for me when I get there.. Give me another one? Hell, I can do that myself."
7 or 5a) Benicar 40mg 1x a day: BAD
More and more frequent heart / chest pains and heart palpitations. I quit taking this one as of today. No change in bp readings from the average.
My doc's nurse called me back after I left a message for her, and told me that my doc told me that we're just about out of options. TekTurna's next and last on the list of available drugs for me. My doctor's assistant told me that she would have some samples of TekTurna at the front desk in the doc's office for me to pick up.
I picked up the samples yesterday afternoon, and started researching side effects and other people's reactions to taking this one. Are you frigging kidding me? I'm not taking this one nor another one, even if there was one available.
Not one single bp pill has brought my bp down lower than 140's/115. I'd rather my bp sit where it has been all my life, at 160's/120 (which evidently is normal for my body) than to subject myself to the horrible side effects. I'm going to see an actupunturist and an asian/eastern medicine man for advise.
I'm frustrated with bp medicines and their side effects.
Comment by Frank — September 11, 2008 @ 7:48 am
I'm tired just reading all the meds you have taken. Did any of your doctors check your kidneys? The kidneys are very important in blood pressure. Last summer, before I realized I had a kidney infection, my BP was everywhere even though I was taking Avalide. Finally ended up in the ER and testa showed I also had a tumor growing (transitional cell carcinoma they said it was). Anyway, had to lose my kidney and now I'm on my "BP Career" since last year. Nothing seems to help bring down the BP to a normal level. I tried Tekturna for 4 days and that was enough for me. I take Avalpro, Clonidine, Lisinopril currently. Dr prescribed Norvasc this week but I haven't started that yet. Maybe your doctor has already checked out your kidneys, but if not, I would suggest it.
Comment by Chloe — September 11, 2008 @ 12:04 pm
Yes. In fact, I had a long list of bloodwork tests done just about three months ago. All came back normal.
Thanks for reading and asking a great question.
And, on another note, I'm not embarrassed to discuss the other side effects that one, some, or all of them had on me. I can't tell which did it, but for sure Lisinopril was the first culprit.
1) Hair loss. I started losing alot of hair once I started taking these bp pills.
2) Slow hair growth and virtually no fingernail growth.
It took me awhile to figure this one out. I usually have to cut my fingernails about once a week, and — since I quit taking these pills — I noticed that I had to cut them. And, I have to get a haircut about once every two weeks. I hadn't gone to get a haircut in two months. I thought for a few minutes, and I recall not having to cut my nails in almost two months! Wow. Really.. no kidding. Strange side effects, but I definitely attribute these two issues to the bp pills. There is no other explanation at all.
3) ED – erectile issues.
I don't think I have to explain this one. Personally, I can't think of any reason whatsoever that any pill I ever take would be good for me if ED is a side effect. Where's my common sense? I'm certainly NOT EVER going to take viagra or cialis AGAIN to initiate a Mr. woody and have the worst heartburn, purple vision, stuffed up head, nose, and ringing ears!! With these horrible side effects from taking Those pills, I'd rather stick pins in my eyes.
Comment by Frank — September 11, 2008 @ 12:56 pm
Swelling of face and hands, loss of balance, fatigue and a lot of time on the toilet. Cannot seem to keep food in my system.
Comment by Mike — September 11, 2008 @ 3:22 pm
Frank: My BP is still very high and I don't like Tekturna one bit. The acupuncture might help but the kidney tests that were referred are not blood tests. It is usually an MRA with contrast. Have you done that? It is very important to have that checked out.
Also, how is your metabolic panel, C-Reactive protein, have all those tests been administered?
the doctors rely too much on the pills. There are so many books on heart issues that show alternatives but with high blood pressure and history you need some good medical advice. I am still hopeful. I See a new cardiologist on Wed.
Comment by Nancy — September 12, 2008 @ 12:52 am
For several years, I controlled my bp with diovan hct. Out of
the blue, it went up, not much, but just a little over what my
doc wanted: maybe 140/92. He wanted me to double dose the diovan. I thought it was too much, so I normal dosed one day &
double dosed the next. I went back in a couple weeks & it was
still up some. I really felt I had sinus prob. or maybe some
stress I could not put my finger on. Anyway, he put me on Exforge. It's really keeping my bp down; even lower than b4, but now I get terrible hot flashes(I'm a man) always around the
same time each night & a lot when I'm exercising @ my fit. center. The last three days, I have had a metallic taste in my
mouth. I wonder if this is a delayed reaction to Exforge? Does anyone else have these problems?
Comment by Carl — September 21, 2008 @ 4:06 pm
I started Tekturna last Friday, waiting for it to bring my bp down. I had started off with Benicar, which did great for two years, no side effects, but quit working, bp went up, way up and doc put me on Benicar hct the lowest dosage. After a couple of weeks, my pressure was like 74/65 and I could hardly move, I was drinking water and liquids to try and keep my fluid levels up.
After months of this, I went back and he took blood work, my sodium was extremely low. Said I didnt really need the diurectic in benicar, so he switched me to this med. He told me nothing about it, what the side effects are, nothing, gave me samples for 5 weeks, Tekturna150. I decided not to take my bp for a few days, cause it makes me anxious. so i took it tonite and it was 150/78 pulse 75.
How long does it take for this medicine to work. Im sick of side effects and am hoping I dont have any.
Comment by maddy — September 23, 2008 @ 9:46 pm
Maddy and others who try BP medication for only a week or less; it will take more than a week for the pills to work to lower your BP. Mine is still high, but better than previously.
My new cardiologist said that he has found some people just naturally have higher BP than what is considered normal. He said in every other way I am healthy so he wants me to continue to watch my food intake (I have lost 20 lbs), and to keep exercising. It's easy to do now, while the weather is still pleasant…. I walk 2 miles 2x each day, and I swam in an outdoor pool, but it is closed now.
Any kind of movement is good. Sometimes I dance to the music of Abba; anything is better than just sitting around. No more white bread, cookies, pies, cakes, greasy hamburgers, pizza etc. I enjoy fish and chicken, veggies and fruit now. If you keep eating this stuff, nothing will lower your BP. You know what you need to do; it's better than taking pills.
There is more and more studies that show the effectivness of acupuncture. Unfortunately, most insurance doesn't cover it.
Comment by Nancy — September 23, 2008 @ 10:35 pm
Nancy,
Thank you for your answer. We have determined after 2yrs, my high bp is genetic. Im 5'2" weigh 105pds, dont eat bread, dairy products, other than yogart, dont eat anything white, eat only chicken and fish. Its my systolic pressure that goes high. I also have an anxiety problem and when anything goes wrong with my body, I become obessesed on how to overcome it. Im 59yrs old, and am starting to return to walking again after having pneumonia which knocked me on my butt in June and July, and August.
I have slowly cut back my smoking, and down to one carton a month, and continuing to cut back.
I take atenolol and have for several years for pvc's. I absolutely hate medication and I beleive it hates me, lol
I just want a medicine that will work, but without all the ugly side effects. Im a very hyper person till im put on Bp meds, then I have NO energy at all. Thanks again Nancy:)
Comment by maddy — September 24, 2008 @ 10:21 am
I have tried that awful Tekturna and my doctor just prescribed Novasc aka Amlodipine. Anyone know anything about this drug? I am so tired of the side effects, namely the insomnia and also the drowsiness. If this new one gives me either, back to the drawing board. (I also take Clonidine and Lisinopril and Avalpro – the best of the bunch). thanks
Comment by Chloe — September 24, 2008 @ 2:14 pm
Norvasc did work for me. However, I couldn't live with the edema in my ankles and especially getting up 8-10 times a night to go to the bathroom. I was SOOOO exausted I finally told the Dr I had to have something else. I am now on Diovan 350 and am able to finally sleep at night. It is also so far working on the BP and the only side effect is a little bit of lightheadedness, which I can't seem to get rid of no matter which med I am on. But I will NEVER take Tekturna again.
Comment by Stacey — September 24, 2008 @ 2:23 pm
Oh no!! I don't want any more edema ANYWHERE! I took that Caduet earlier this year and by the end of the day, my legs looked like elephant legs!! Went off of that med after about 2 months. I'll try this Novasc stuff and see what happens. That Clonidine stuff makes me so sleepy I stopped taking it during the day; I now take it at night and sometimes it helps me sleep. I have a insomnia (from my diabetes and lately because of my 18 year relationship with my sig other ended so I wake up and THINK about things during the night! I don't WANT to wake up anymore and THINK!). I'm going to start taking the Novasc stuff tonight. I'll keepin mind that Diovan. I do have to be careful though because I only have one kidney (thanks to smoking for 30 years) so I have to watch what kind of BP meds I can take.
Comment by Chloe — September 24, 2008 @ 2:39 pm
My response: See my earlier post, which is post #112.
I'm now taking Bystolic, which really isn't a BP pill. It's a pill that is used to slow down heart rate. An effect of slowing down the heart rate, it has lowered my BP… and NO side effects as of today. I've been taking it now for a week. I'm not tired, foggy, nor any other side effect.
So, I've gone from 160's/120 to 129/89 (my latest bp reading).
Comment by Frank — September 24, 2008 @ 3:16 pm
Frank-actually Bystolic is for BP. In fact it is a very unique Beta Blocker in that it effects the hemodynamic equation by decreasing peripheral vascular resistence, increasing stroke volume and cardiac output as well as lowering heart rate. It is the only beta blocker on the market which does this. Because it increases stroke volume and cariac output, the patient does not get fatigued. It is also the only beta blocker which has the FDA indication for first line use for hypertension. Glad to see your pressure is down too!
Comment by Mark — September 26, 2008 @ 1:15 am
Another point while looking through comment 112 by Frank. It sounds like when you took Benicar you experienced some breakout angina. This is not attributed to Benicar but probably some other mismanagement of meds. Benicar is in fact the strongest ARB on the market and is widely known for almost zero side effects. Norvasc is indeed an edema culprit. However if you are having severe hypertension, really anything 160 or higher systolic and 100 diastolic, you could take Azor which is a combe of Benicar and Norvasc. Benicar cause a reduction of edema by 40%.
Comment by Mark — September 26, 2008 @ 1:25 am
Latest Concern: Anyone know anything about Nifedical XL? My cardiologist now wants to stop the Tekturna/Norvasc and start me on Nifedical XL. Checked out the side effects of this one and not too impressive. In addition to the edema there is also weight gain, depression and diarrhea. Yipes! I had enough of all of this stuff. Just lost 20 lbs and don't want to pile it back on. In the past, I did have medications that increased my appetite. I know that Nifedical XL is a CCB as is Norvasc. When the MD added the Norvasc to the Tekturna, I did experience a slight increase in appetite which I worked out with more exercise. However, if this new stuff saps my energy, it won't be easy.
Comment by Nancy — September 27, 2008 @ 10:17 am
I take Tekturna 300 mg, azor, and plavix at night because it was making me sleepy during the day. My problem is that i cough every night as soon as my head hits the pillow i start this dry hacking cough until sometime i throw up. I think it's the tekturna because when i was on Benicar i had no problems. Please give feed back
Comment by CYTHIA — September 29, 2008 @ 3:06 pm
In my twenties and thirties my BP was low — 90s/60s. Then I followed my mother's pattern of post-menopausal high BP (I'm now 61)… even though my weight was a bit below average. My high BP was diagnosed in 2001, but I resisted starting meds … made a series of broken promises to myself about how I was going to improve my diet and exercise more. The wake-up call came in Jan 2004 with my first episode of atrial fibrillation. Since then my primary med has been Cardizem (Diltiazem) 240mg. After my third episode of a-fib, the cardiologist started me on Flecainide. I have not had another episode of a-fib in over 2 years.
Enough background. As the stress of long-term caregiving for a sick family member began to wear on me, my BP climbed. The cardiologist tried increasing the Cardizem from 240mg to 360mg. I felt as though my head would fall off my shoulders every time I bent over. Another med or two was tried with no BP reduction benefits and lots of negative side-effects. Then he started me on Tektura 2-1/2 months ago. It took two weeks to see results, but they were remarkable — I went from 160/85 (with spikes of 200/100) to 135/65.
However, I am now wondering if the price I'm paying in side-effects is too high. I have had brain fog since day one. Sometimes a low-grade headache. Lethargy. Difficulty motivating myself to do things I normally enjoy. Joint pains and muscle aches. Occasional insomnia during the second half of the night.
At first I felt full all the time. I thought, "Well, at least there's one GOOD side-effect — appetite suppression! What an easy way to lose a few pounds." So I began to take much smaller portions at meals. Much to my amazement, I stepped on the scale and saw that I had GAINED two pounds. I noticed that my watch left an impression on my arm. It got worse. Now I don't just feel FULL, I feel BLOATED all the time. And I LOOK bloated. Suddenly, clothes that I could wear when I weighed 10 pounds more than I do now don't fit! The blow to my vanity has been the worst side-effect of all.
The Tekturna literature mentions something about gastric discomfort. But it doesn't mention weight gain or bloating specifically. I would like to hear from others who have experienced these problems.
Also, has anyone had success in reducing side-effects (of any type) by either reducing the dosage (I'm on 150mg), or by taking it on an every-other-day regimen? I don't want to give up my newly reduced BP, but I don't want to feel punk for the rest of my life, either.
Comment by Claire — September 30, 2008 @ 8:19 pm
Well I just started my third week on Tekturna. Im not sure about it. My left ankle and foot hurt, its not swollen, but it aches when I walk on it.
To be honest, I havent taken my BP in over a week or two. If I start taking it, it becomes obessesive to me. If its high, I freak out. Then I wait about 20 minutes and take it again, and then this goes on all day for me.
Im not sure its the Tekturna causing my ankle and foot to hurt, but Im watchin to see if there is any swelling. I do have a question, we are traveling to Albuquerque NM next week, and it kind of scares me. Its very high altitude and does that make your blood pressure go up?
To be honest, I would like something, anything to control my bp without worrying about all the damn side effects that come with them. Diuretics are toooooooo strong for me, my bp drops like a baloon , Benicar I loved, but it quit working for me:(
I dont remember ever having side effects with benicar.
I agree with the poster above, I feel bloated alot to, and had diarreha the first week, thats getting better.
Its like where my ankle bends it hurts. Do you think it could be the Tekturna? And if it does start swelling should I call my doctor?
Comment by maddy — October 4, 2008 @ 7:02 pm
I'm truly sorry so many of you are having problems with Tekturna. And I really don't like to post to sites such as
this. However; I sure hope Tekturna is not pulled off the market based on these comments. I am either allergic to or have had a bad reaction to probably 20 different BP meds. I definately do understand your frustrations with Tekturna and/or other BP meds.
I have been on Tekturna about 5 months without any problems. I take Verapamil 2 times a day and 300 mg of Avapro along with
Tekturna. My cardio has said the 3 drug approach to treating
"malignant HBP" which is what I have, is catching on. When Tekturna was added, my BP finally stabilized to about 120-125/60-65.
I am very tired. That' much better than feeling like the top of my head was coming off every time I moved or bent over though. Best wishes to all of you on the site. Be careful in thinking that every ache or pain you have is caused by Tekturna.
Comment by Sue — October 4, 2008 @ 8:11 pm
Hi,
I have to agree with Sue. I have been on 300mg Tekturna 1 1/2 years. I was put on it right after it came on the market. I had had many side effects from numerous combinations of BP medications- one putting me into emergency. MY BP wasn't controlled until I was put on Tekturna. Tekturna worked quickly and I have had no side effects. I am also on the Clonidine patch. Recently my BP has begin to go low in the evenings so my Tekturna dose was cut in half which is a much better problem in my mind. I just went in for blood work/physical. All normal. After all I have gone through I am thankful for Tekturna.
Comment by Debbie — October 4, 2008 @ 10:46 pm
Okay, I took my bp today, it was 189/89 and im on 150 Tektura, its higher now than before I started takeing it,, I called my doctor but he is out for the afternoon,,, HELP!!!!!!!
Comment by maddy — October 6, 2008 @ 4:45 pm
You know, I've been monitoring this board for a while now and it seems that 98% of the people taking Tekturna are having problems with it: it is either ineffective or there are so many side effects, that they cannot take it. I wonder if the FDA is aware of this? I find it alarming that the FDA has gone ahead and approved this drug and it seems that it is not doing it's job. And if it is doing it's job – there is a price to pay. When I first started taking it, my druggist told me that it was STILL in the trial phases and there were a lot of complaints about the drug (this was last May) and she was surprised the FDA still had it on the market. I took it for 5 days and that was enough! The headaches I had were terrible and I wasn't going to the bathroom!! Not good when I have only one kidney!! So I stopped on my own. I am now taking 4 different meds and all seem to be working other than the fact that one makes me so sleepy and one gives me insomnia!!! (Last night on television, Lifetime had an "Army Wives" marathon!). Hopefully, after losing some weight, I'll be able to at least get rid of one medication!
Comment by Chloe — October 6, 2008 @ 4:53 pm
does tekturna and benicar have drug interactions?
Comment by maddy — October 6, 2008 @ 5:39 pm
Guess it depends on your pharmacist. I have a great one that I trust. I'm told this is a really good medicine and they're very glad it's available. So says my cardio also. So am I! I'm not the best at math, but I don't see 98% of these postings as having bad results with Tekturna. I sure hope the FDA isn't going to pull the drug based on these comments. AND as to who pays for my Tekturna……..my insurance co. They may stop paying any day. You know how managed care goes……..here today and gone tomorrow.
Comment by Sue — October 6, 2008 @ 6:19 pm
I am not convinced at the 98% having problems with Tekturna here on this board. But regardless I think it is important to stay in good communication with your Doctors and read this board with a grain of salt. No two people are alike. What works for one most likely won't for another. For exampel-they put me on Verapamil right off because it was working for my mom- it never worked and within a month I was taken off due to a sinus ( SP?) block and very weird heart palpitations…freaked me out. However, she swears by it. All thge ARBs, Beta Blockers, on and on had serious effects on me….Yet Tekturna works for me, my insurance covers it and I just can't imagine this board having any impact on the FDA. I'd be very disapppointed if ity made such a serious decisions based on the writings of a few.
Comment by Debbie — October 6, 2008 @ 8:12 pm
Debbie, I so wanted this med to work! I figured it would take at least a couple of weeks, but after 3 weeks, my Bp is HIGHER.
Why would that happen? Im so sick of going to doctors! Tired of trying this and that, its either to much and my bp goes so low im non functional, or it goes to high….
I really dont know what to do, plus the fact, I have NO insurance, cant get it, and so Everytime I go to the doctor, its 100 dollars.
Maddy
Comment by maddy — October 6, 2008 @ 8:32 pm
Thank God my doc gave me 5 weeks of samples, I dont even know how much it would be to buy it?
Comment by maddy — October 6, 2008 @ 8:34 pm
RJS
You seem to be pretty knowledgeable, what do you think about my pressure going up? after taking tekturna?
Comment by maddy — October 6, 2008 @ 8:40 pm
I am so sorry and I can relate to a bit of what you are saying. I went thru the exact same thing but did have insurance thank goodness. I was told I had Malignant BP- we tried every class of medication and combinations with no reduction or it only worked for a bit. I was so scared, and stressed which made my problems worse! I was finally put on xanax, lexapro, 3 BP meds… I was a walking zombie with HIGH BP and these weird 'episodes' no one could explain but many saw. If you knew me you'd know how strange this was . I was scanned, probed, they looked at my urine, my spit etc… I saw so many doctors even a psychiatrist! I had every scan you can think of. I do have great doctors and they were worried too and stck by me- and believed me! But I finally refused to have any more of their tests. I had had it! Finally using xanax, I began to learn how to meditate, learned relaxation technigues, went to accupuncture ( Never thinking it would work) and finally clonidine worked.. and then a bit later Tekturna and then accupuncture and meditation … I guess I want to say what helped me was learning to meditate- you should see my IPOD playlist and my stack of books! The neat people I met. I was not a believer and do know now that the blend of medication and eastern medicine worked for me. MY GP recommend this combo by the way. I also take 2 herbs my accupunturist recommended. My point – it has been a HARD and scary 2 year journey. Have believe in yourself and find a doctor you trust and stick with that person. Don't give up please.
Comment by Debbie — October 6, 2008 @ 8:50 pm
Thank you debbie:)
I took lexapro for a while, loved it, but raised my bp. I do take xanax for anxiety, and atenolol. When I was younger I never read side effects of anything! If my doc gave it to me, I took it.
Never noticed any side effects. Now, thats all changed, I ask the doctor, the pharmacists, then I read the enclosed leaflet.
There are some scarey side effects out there.
Comment by maddy — October 6, 2008 @ 9:21 pm
Maddy,
It is amazing how in our youth we took so many things for granted! MY BP on lexapro didn't change but I can't say I loved it like you but it did help me thru a 3 month rough patch for which I am greatful. I had never taken an anti depressant or anti anxiety meds before, so I was a bit freaked out at 1st. I do recall being worried about Lexapro and xanax. I visited many websites, forums like this. There were so many scary experiences, stories. I got so anxious. I soon realized that forums and boards were scaring me more than the leaflets I got with the medications… I too ask the doctors many questions- I know that Benicar worked for awhile- but I had weird kidney problems so they took me off… It took time to find the right comb that is working now. I wish there was some test to determine what is causing us to have high BP so we could target the cause with the correct medication…
Comment by Debbie — October 7, 2008 @ 12:25 am
I went to the doctor this morning, He changed my meds to Tekturna Hct. So I guess we will see if that works,, (sigh)
Comment by maddy — October 7, 2008 @ 3:03 pm
Maddy—How is the Tekturna HCT working for you? I've been on Tekturna 150 for a few months and it is no longer working so my doctor just switched me to Tekturna HCT today. Who's been on that and what are the side effects/differences from Tekturna/advantages/disadvantages?? I'm so totally down to have to try another new medication…I've been on so many different ones and it feels as if nothing is ever going to help me…..
Comment by Judy — October 22, 2008 @ 7:19 pm
Judy,
Nothing is working for me. I took the tekturna hct for 8 days, nothing except diarreha. Blood pressure went Low then High again.Doc changed me to Cozaar 50mg a day. Been on it 6 days and my bp today was 190/90.. Damnit!! I really need something!
Any suggestions, or questions to ask my doc?
Comment by Maddy — October 22, 2008 @ 8:00 pm
Ive been changed again. To Cozaar 50mg a day. HELP!!!
Nothing is working! and I dont know what to do, what other questions to ask.
Comment by Maddy — October 22, 2008 @ 8:02 pm
Everytime I push the post button it says duplicat comment, grrrr
Comment by Maddy — October 22, 2008 @ 8:03 pm
Tekturna Hct didnt work!
Nothing works.
Comment by Maddy — October 22, 2008 @ 8:04 pm
I heard from the doctor again, Im to double my cozaar to 100mg, to see if that works, So we will see….
Comment by Maddy — October 22, 2008 @ 8:50 pm
Good luck Maddy!! I hope the cozaar 100 will work for you!!! I just took my first Tekturna 150HCT and am waiting to see what will happen. I'm not hopeful since nothing else has helped. My question next is—then what???????
Comment by Judy — October 23, 2008 @ 5:25 am
HI, I have been on tekturna for 1 1/2 years now ( reduced recently to 150) and it took about 8-10 days before I saw results. No side effects.
Comment by Debbie — October 23, 2008 @ 9:56 am
Debbie, Im SO glad it worked for you!!!! I didnt have any side effects either, which was wonderful, just didnt bring my bp down.
Judy,
Everyone is different! I bet the tekturna works for you! If this doesnt work, I may have to try two meds, instead of one. But, we have to get our bp under control:)
Comment by Maddy — October 23, 2008 @ 8:37 pm
My doctor just gave me Tekurna today since my hair was severely falling out
by being on Diovan 320mg and Minipress. I must say that after reading all
these posts I am now scared to death to continue taking Tekurna. I, like some
of you, have great sensitivity to meds. On occasion I take a Zanax as I am under a lot of stress (my son on drugs and so on) and I noticed that my BP drops to
a normal reading. Does anyone know if anxiety pills can be taken in place of
BP meds. I am a nervous person by nature so perhaps that is all that I need.
Any thoughts anyone. I am going to ask my dr about this. Also since Tekurna
works directly on one's kidneys…..can it do damage to kidneys?
Comment by Angie — October 23, 2008 @ 11:39 pm
Yes, in which case long term BP maintenance should be done with psych meds (or psych meds + light BP meds). Hormones, too, can have a huge effect on BP. (That means birth control pills, too, not just normal hormonal fluctuations.)
Too early to say, yet, but the long-term data for the ACEis and ARBs (that I mentioned in the blog entry on this post) haven't had any clinically-significant long term renal consequences.
Comment by RJS — October 24, 2008 @ 12:05 am
Angie,
Try the tekturna, its ONE medicine that I had NO side effects on, in fact the 4 weeks I took it, I felt great, but did nothing for my bp.
Comment by Maddy — October 24, 2008 @ 9:55 am
Thanks to Maddy and RJS for your response. I will continue to take it and
hopefully I will see some results. One problem is that I have a BP monitor at
home. When i take my readings at home they are pretty good and of no concern. When I go to the Dr's office it is ALWAYS high. I have to question the
possibility that my anxiety of being in the DR's office is what is causing my reading to be so high, or perhaps my monitor (handcuff one) is not correctly
reading my BP. Next time I go to the Dr. I am going to take mine and see how
different the reading is. It would be great if taking Zanax would be helpful as
you RJS mentioned. In any case, I just took another Tekturna pill and so far no
side effects. Thanks for "calming" me down. have a great day!
Comment by Angie — October 24, 2008 @ 11:45 am
Angie,
I have a digital moniter, I took mine to my doctor with me to check, but mines always high on either one, lol
However, I do take xanax as needed, so when it gets really high, I take one and yes it does help a little.
And dont be like me, when mine goes high, it scares me, so I take it like every 30 minutes, and my anxiety is horrible, which makes it go that much higher.
Comment by Maddy — October 24, 2008 @ 12:41 pm
Thanks again Maddy. It is such a comfort to have someone to talk to. It reliefs being so frightful and panicked all the time.
My next concern is taking Bactrim DS 800-160 for an ear and sinus infection. I looked it up on the internet because as you know
most dr's never have the time or bother to inform you well of these meds. The side effects reported are truly scary…..people ending up in the ER and so on. i want to be informed but I must
admit I psych myself out so that I am a nervous wreck. I am going to start by breaking the pill in half to see how I react
to it. Wish me luck!! And thanks again. If anyone has taken
this medication before can you post a comment.
Comment by Angie — October 24, 2008 @ 12:52 pm
Angie:
Bactrim has been on the market for years!! It's a sulpha based drug used for infections. It is not an antibiotic. I would NOT worry about taking it!! I've taken it many times for different infections over the years and I had no problems whatsoever so I don't know where you are reading about the side effects. The only thing that may happen is you'll get a yeast infection! Which is nothing. You have to also remember people sometimes mix drugs without thinking. Perhaps that is why people have ended up in the ER. But keep taking it full strength or else your sinus/ear infection will never go away. It will keep coming back and sinus infections are not cured by antibiotics, but by taking a drug such as Bactrim.
Comment by Chloe — October 24, 2008 @ 1:04 pm
Thanks so much Chloe….I so appreciate your feedback and now feel more
comfortable taking it full strength. I also have to keep in mind that even though it seems like a lot of people's negative reactions to any drug, it is probably a small percentage in ratio to the thousands of people who don't. Anyway, I feel so much better now. thanks again.
Comment by Angie — October 24, 2008 @ 2:06 pm
Angie: If I remember correctly, it is a sulpha drug and there are people that are allergic to sulpha.
Comment by Chloe — October 24, 2008 @ 2:20 pm
Chloe: You are right,. I see now that the people posting on Bactrim that scared me with what I thought were normal side effects were instead people who were
allergic to "sulpha" . thanks for bringing this information to my attention.
I am going to take my first pill now and hopefully will not have any negative
reaction to it. thanks again.
Comment by Angie — October 24, 2008 @ 2:56 pm
Angie I sure am glad someone brought up the sulfa allergy.
I am alergic to sulfa and came hereto ask you if you can take sufa.
I'm glad someone got a message to you before I got here.
Drs in this area write Rx "take as directed." I don't know what their problem is. Fortuantely the pharmacy I use has caught 3 BP meds that either contain something I'm allergic to or that would cause an interaction with another drug I'm taking in the last 6 mo. This is ridiculous. I also go to Drug.com and there you can check for an interaction between drugs you are taking if your pharmacy doesn't help you.
Best wishes. Sue
Comment by Sue — October 24, 2008 @ 3:27 pm
Maddie—I feel as if we must be clones:) I, too, take my blood pressure repeatedly when it's high…and that certainly doesn't bring it down:( I've been on so many different medications with so many different, horrible side effects that I can't stand it anymore. I've now taken my second Tekturna HCT and so far, no positive results:(
Comment by Judy — October 24, 2008 @ 3:30 pm
Bactrim most certainly IS an antibiotic.
You're not allergic to sulfur, you are allergic to sulfa, which is shorthand for the sulfonamide moiety, which is found in sulfa-based antibiotics. Don't worry if there is sulFUR in a particular medication you take, because that it not what you are allergic to.
There are many drugs that also have a sulfonamide group in them, but patients who cannot take Bactrim CAN take these drugs (e.g. furosemide). There is a low rate of cross-sensitivity between the two. It's good to know and keep a look out for problems, but these other drugs are not absolutely off-limits on pain of death or what have you.
Comment by RJS — October 24, 2008 @ 3:59 pm
Re:Oct 24 @3:59 pm………..RJS…….Unsure if your comment was to me about a sulfa allergy or why my comment is highlighted above your comment. I didn't mention sulFER.
I am allergic to Sulfa drugs. I cannot take drugs containing
sulfonamides. Included in these drugs are most diauretice, oral diabetes meds, and some BP meds…..other's I'm sure. Just have to be careful with meds.
Comment by Sue — October 24, 2008 @ 4:20 pm
thanks everyone who has posted comments in reference to Bactrim. I went to drug.com and read carefully the drug interaction section. So far after taking
just 1 pill I have not felt any side effects at all. Took my second pill of Tekturna
and I feel OK too. Took my BP a bit ago and it was 127/79 so i am pleased about that.
I appreciate everyones comments as they have been totally educational. I do
agree and know for a fact that pharmacists are great at "eyeing" the dangers of
medication interactions. I guess that is why it is so important to fill all our
prescriptions at only 1 pharmacy.
This is the first time I am taking both medications so hopefully I will be OK
with both. Thanks again.
Comment by Angie — October 24, 2008 @ 5:44 pm
Bactrim is not like tetrocylin (sp?) or cipro. It's a different form of an antibiotic and it is also used for different purposes than a more familiar antibiotic. It works differently than the more familiar antibiotics. I used to take Bactrim when I had either a UTI or a sinus infection. And as we all know – antibiotics are never prescribed for just a common cold because it is a different virus than a sinus infection; I can't remember though the difference on why Bactrim was better for the UTI and sinus infections rather than a more familiar antibiotic.
Comment by Chloe — October 24, 2008 @ 6:23 pm
I'm also fighting hypertension and tried Tekturna with no success at lowering my BP. I did not have side effects. Now I take benazapril, amlodipine, and clonidine before bed (because the BP always seemed higher at night and first thing in the morning). It seems to be doing better with this regimen. Some of you may try this too and get better results. Clonidine works great but will make you sleepy or dizzy if you take it during the day.
I enjoy reading your posts!
Patty
Comment by Patty — October 25, 2008 @ 12:48 am
Patty,
I too take clonidine and it does work well on my BP. ( I also take 150 tekturna) I typically spike late afternoon. The clonidine pills made me sleepy at 1st until I adjusted. So they put me on the clonidine patch and gave me the pills as a backup. Now, I only take a pill if I spike and my BP won't drop with my breathing relaxation techniques. The .2 patch doesn't make me sleepy. However if I add a pill I do get sleepy but oddly – only sometimes. I do get very dry mouth and very fuzzy thinking however on more than .2 which I dislike.
Also someone mentioned different BP readings at home / doctor's office. I have an arm and a wrist BP machine. ( work and home) The arm one is very accurate and I did take it in to the doctors to check it against theirs. My wrist one always has a lower reading when I compare the two. So I know to 'add' 15-20 points' to my wrist one now. I am not sure why it is not accurate. They are both OMRONs which the doctor suggested. I also learned not to take my BP.. I used to worry and obsess over my BP making it higher of course. Now, I take it once a day ( afternoon/early eve) at the same time or if I feel odd.
Comment by Debbie — October 26, 2008 @ 12:27 pm
I just took my fifth Tekturna HCT and it's definitely lowering my BP—which is great! However, I have a bunch of side effects: slight headache, stomach ache, inability to sleep–at least partly caused because I have to urinate all the time so because I'm not sleeping, I'm tired all the time, I have a cough, leaky nose…..I'm sure there are other things. My question is: how much of this do I put up with to keep my BP somewhat lower? Also, what can be done about the fact that probably ALL BP lowering medications cause people to be tired? I can't imagine being like this forever…I'm an active person and when I go out for a run now, it's an effort.
Comment by Judy — October 27, 2008 @ 6:06 am
Judy
Im glad it has started working for you. Im supposing most of the side effects will go away. Im on my 8th day of cozaar and it has worked very little. Im taking 100mg a day and my pressure is still 160/80, sometimes higher.
Anyone with any suggestions would help? I might could back to the Benicar hczt, it worked , but my pressure was always around 75/60 so I had NO energy at all….
Maddy
Comment by maddy — October 28, 2008 @ 2:59 pm
Hey All , I hope everyone is doing better!! My doctor has increased my cozaar to 200miligrams a day starting tomorrow. Ive been taking the 100miligrams for 15 days, and my bp is still around 160/88 up and down. by the way, it sucks when you have no insurance these meds are expensive!!!
Comment by maddy — November 3, 2008 @ 9:52 pm
took diovan, nothing
changed doctors, he started me on benicar , took about a week for it to take effect, but kept my bp perfect for two years. then it started back up again.
put me on benicar hct, it dropped pressure fast, and way to low. so low i was having muscle tremors.
stopped that , and gave me nothing. went 5 weeks with perfect pressure then shot up to 190/110.
started me on Tekturna 150, took 10 days, felt great!!! did nada for pressure.
put me on tekturna hct. swore to me it didnt work the same way the benicar hct did. took it 10 days, worked exactly like the benicar hct, bad headaches, when i stood up, felt faint, but bp was still high
on cozaar now, started at 50, nada, raised it to 100 mil. been on the 100 20 days, little change in pressure.
tomorrow i start cozaar 100 in the morning 100 in afternoon.
damn I feel like a failure!!! doc says its a hereditary thing, runs in my family, which is true. being 59 isnt much fun when you sit around worried how high your dang blood pressure is.
anyone else tried cozaar?
Comment by maddy — November 3, 2008 @ 10:37 pm
Where is everybody? No comments here for a REALLY long time!!!! What's going on?
Comment by Judy — December 9, 2008 @ 6:57 am
Judy,
I saw that, I checked the other day. Im now on Sular a calcium channel blocker.
Im not sure what it's going to do. How are you doin with your tekturna??
Has it helped?
Maddy
Comment by maddy — December 9, 2008 @ 1:12 pm
Hi Maddy–
I'm so glad you answered!! I'm doing okay on the Tekturna HCT but I definitely have many side effects. I'm willing to put up with them for now because my pressure is under control but I don't know how long I'll be able to continue. Actually, my pressure is so low at times that I have trouble standing up, etc. And I don't know if you remember, but I'm a very active person—I run, do Pilates, golf, etc. I have to literally talk myself through exercise now because I'm exhausted all the time…but I know the exercise makes me feel better…. I've never taken either a beta blocker or a calcium channel blocker. How are the side effects of those for you?
Comment by Judy — December 9, 2008 @ 1:25 pm
Hi Everyone, I am on Tekturna and I was really doing well in the beginning. I got off Diovan and Minipress because my hair was falling off like crazy. Now that I have been on Tekturna for almost two months my BP is up again……that would be the upper number. It is between 145-150. I stopped taking my BP reading because I get so nervous and concerned that it just soars higher. I am taking a low dosage of Xanax at night to help me sleep. I know it is foolish not to take
my BP reading but I am hoping that with exercise and eating well I can lower it
on my own. Now I have ear problems with horrible headaches. I thought it was a sinus infection as my whole face aches. I went to a ENT the other day and he
told me that I have TMJ. Has anyone been diagnosed with TMJ???
Comment by Angie — December 9, 2008 @ 7:01 pm
I had tried so many BP meds and I either had a bad reaction to them or the drugs didn't help at all.
I have been on Tekturna 300mg for several months along with a
calcium channel blocker. I do feel a bit tired, but that's a lot better than having a stroke from hbp. Saw my doctor yesterday and my bp was 110/60. I don't seem to have any other side effects than being a little bit tired. Seems like Tekturna is working well for me. If you are just starting on it, unless you have a bad reaction, I suggest you give it a little time.
I'm not a doctor though….just my opinion.
Comment by Sue — December 9, 2008 @ 7:29 pm
Hello All
Judy, if the medicine is doing that to you, you can do several things. When you get up, get up slowly and wait a few seconds before you start walking. Also, I dont remember how long you have been on it, but if it's been over 4 weeks and its still doing this talk to your doctor. He may can lower the dose.
I took benicar hct, and tekturna hct, had the same reaction, only after a few days everytime I stood up, felt like my head was going to explode,, and my bp would soar really high.
So far the beta blocker and calcium channel blocker is working. my pressure today was 125/75. I can live with that, since before it was 184/84.
Angie, it has always been my Upper number that was really high to. Keep your doctor informed. My doctor kept telling me, we have to twick your meds to right ones. I thought I would go crazy till I started this one. This was my 9th bp try. But you have to let your doctor know, leave him a message , if you can't go in for a visit. They almost always return calls.
Maddy
Comment by maddy — December 9, 2008 @ 9:56 pm
Thanks Maddy. I was doing some HBP research and I read that Tekturna does
really well when taken with Diovan so I probably need another BP medication to
lower the upper number. I will call my doctor tomorrow and make an appt so
she can evaluate my readings and decide what we should try next. It seems like an ongoing problem. My brother also has HBP , sees the same doctor and has
great readings all the time. But he is not a nervous person like me. I really think that does not help me being so emotionally weak and stressed out all the time.
Nonetheless, thanks so much for your thoughts. Did I understand correctly that you take Benicar with Tekturna? I took Benicar when I lived in LA but I don't remember why we changed……probably because of my high readings. anway, glad to hear that you are doing better now. Angie
Comment by Angie — December 9, 2008 @ 10:28 pm
Angie
The medicine I ever took was Benicar, did great for me for almost 3 yrs. Then my systolic began to rise. So doctor changed me to Benicar Hct. I took it 6 months, but my total bp pressure was so low all the time i couldn't funtion at all. My pressure ran around 74/60 way to low. Plus i was losing way to many electrolites constantly. Im very thin person anyway, and didn't need to lose anything.
Then came the constant trying of different medications. Tekturna 150mg , took it for 4 weeks, felt great but did nada for my bp. So he gave me Tekturna Hct, blood pressure UP then way Down, Then UP, the down.
Next was cozzar, same thing felt great did nothing for my bp.
Next was diovan 150 took it for 4 weeks, bp never changed.
so Now, im on Sular 8.5 blood pressure yesterday was 125/75 which I can live with. Hope it continues to work.
All these medications have side effects, EVERY single one. Some are slight, some are not so slight, some are down right untolerable. Some go away after a week or two, some get worse.
Im like you Angie, always been hyper type A anxious person. I take my bp once a day, sometimes in the morning , sometimes evening. I know I should be taking it twice a day, but If I start, I will be taking it every 30 seconds all day long. It becomes an obsession for me.
So, its just easier this way. And if my pressure is up when I take it the first time, my anxiety goes through the roof. So, I understand what your saying. By the way, I come from a LONG line of family members with High Bp.
Maddy
Comment by maddy — December 10, 2008 @ 12:38 pm
Thanks Maddy for responding to my posting. Wow, you certainly have been on
a medication roller coaster. But as someone said meds work differently on each of us so I guess we have to keep trying different ones that will do the job. However it is interesting how a medication could work for a while and then we
are back to dealing with high readings. Yesterday I finally decided to take my BP reading. It was 145/77. I decided to take half a Xanax, waited 15 min and then
took it again. This time it read 120/75. I still think that my daily anxiety has
a lot to do with it. I have a very active "mind" that is constanly worrying about
things and and my troubled family. I never had High BP until my husband passed away and I had to raise my two sons on my own. I am trying not to
worry about the things that I cannot change but that is a challenge in itself.
Thanks so much for taking the time to "chat" with me. I will check in again
after I see my doctor at the end of the week. Have a good and peaceful day.
Comment by Angie — December 10, 2008 @ 2:58 pm
When I first began taking Tekturna I thought it was a miracle drug because it was the first BP medication that actually lowered my BP. Unfortunately, it only worked for a relatively short while. So, then my doctor put me on Tekturna 150/HCT12.5. At the moment that's working but I'm expecting that it too will eventually lose it's effectiveness. I'm very active and this drug exhausts me which is not good. I have to talk myself through every run and exercise session because I'm so exhausted. Plus, I often am extremely light-headed most afternoons. When I go play golf, for instance, I can't even bend over to take my ball out of the whole when I'm lucky enough to get it in:( I also have abdominal pains, weird taste sensations, headaches, etc. I eat healthy foods all the time, always have. I exercise every day, always have. I don't want to change medications yet because I like when I take my BP and it's not too bad….plus, I know what the side effects of this drug are and I'm not interested in finding out what the side effects of something else might be. I take my BP EVERYDAY and would probably take it more often but my husband already thinks I'm obsessive about this so I try not to be too nuts….I sure wish there was a simple answer….
Comment by Judy — December 10, 2008 @ 3:32 pm
Well, I've been taking the new Sular timed release med for two weeks, didnt have a problem till Monday. Woke up thought I had the flu, every muscule in my body was hurting, headache from hell. So, I continued taking it till today, was worse yesterday.
Today, the symptoms of muscular pain are subsiding. Also, this medicine has constipated the hell out of me. So, the last three days Ive had to take a laxative.
Calling my Doctor tomorrow, see what we can do. Anyone know anything about this new form of Sular? It was just released in January 2008.
I can't take any drugs with HCT in them because I have horrible side effects.
Any suggestions would be wonderful, bout at the end of my rope here:( Maddy
Comment by maddy — December 18, 2008 @ 12:03 am
Personally, I think we are all guinia pigs for all these new meds. Iv'e started turning in my symptoms to FDA watch. People do all these reviews on WebMed etc, and never get answers.
So, maybe if we turn all the side effects not listed on the meds, FDA will listen?
Maddy
Comment by maddy — December 18, 2008 @ 12:06 am
Hi Maddy,
so sorry to hear of your painful side effects you are enduring. You may be like
me…..I just don't tolerate meds very well. And being a small person I think
sometimes the dosages are too strong for me. I, too, have had excruciating muscle pain from high BP meds so I know how awful it is. Please keep us posted after you speak to your doctor. Hope you continue to feel better. take care.
Comment by Angie — December 18, 2008 @ 1:52 am
I so totally agree with Maddy!! Any drug that's only been on the "market" for 2-3 years or less is STILL in the experimental stage regardless of any FDA approval. When my doctor put me on Tekturna, my druggist told me that that drug was STILL in the trial stage and there were so many side effects that it should not have even been approved in the first place. I will NOT take a drug regardless how much it is touted as a "wonder drug" or perfect for this or that until I do research on it.
This Sular drug sounds terrible. And I bet it isn't cheap either!!! I have to start a new diabetes med, Januvia, and I'm kicking and screaming that I have to start taking it because of the side effects, but I told my doctor I'll give it a try and we'll see what happens. Any side effects that interupts my life, ie respiratory problems, muscle aches – forget it! It's not going into my body. I'll stick to the tried and true meds I'm taking now.
Comment by Dottie — December 18, 2008 @ 12:32 pm
dottie
my husband is type 2 diabetic. He was diagnosed 6 yrs ago. The first line drugs for diabetes have sulfa in them. We didn't know that and the doctor didn't tell us that. He is very allergic to sulfa drugs. So he had major reaction..
They put him on a drug called Starlx, brand new. No Sulfa in it at all. He did very well, but didn't do what the doctor told him, change his diet , exercise. He would try a couple of weeks then go back eating and not exercising.
Last year, he blood sugar was really high, so the doctor added a med to the starlix.
That's when he decided he needed to do something! So, he checked into nutrisystem advanced for diabetics. He has been on the nutrisystem a year, and he has lost 50pds, he exercises everyday, and his blood sugars run about 85. He is down to One pill a day.
Im very proud of him and he is proud of himself. But, if he gets off the nutrisystem, which I'm sure he will in time,, we now know what he can eat, and what to not eat. I wish you luck on your new medicine to.
I have a doctors appt tomorrow, will check in when I get back.
Maddy
Comment by maddy — December 18, 2008 @ 6:08 pm
Good luck tomorrow Maddie!!! I sure hope the doctor is able to find something you can tolerate.
Has anyone else noticed that many of us who are having so much trouble finding a drug to control our BP are very similar in body type, activity level, etc.? I definitely think this is something that needs further exploring.
Comment by Judy — December 18, 2008 @ 6:13 pm
Maddy: I saw my endo doctor a couple of weeks ago and she did rag at me about working out more and losing weight. She said no drug is going to help me more than diet and exercise. I do watch what I eat except for the last 2 days at work here with all the junk food. Today one of our vendors sent over ice cream bars for everyone – Dove Bars, Reese's bar, Ben & Jerry's Bar – you get the picture? Well I had 2 little bites of a B&J's and I could feel my GL's go up!! One of the other gals here is Type II and on the needle. She couldn't help herself and had a DOve bar! All she did was adjust her insulin and she was fine, whereas I take pills and couldn't do that. But I so seldom eat badly anymore. I'm just trying to motivate myself to get back to the gym. I KNOW without a doubt that will make me feel better and lower by BP AND GL's….but as we know, it's easier said than done!!
Comment by Dottie — December 18, 2008 @ 6:29 pm
Forgot to add. I too am on BP meds – four of them to be exact. I lost a kidney last year (thanks Tobacco Companies for contibuting to that loss!!) so I have to control my BP religiously. I'm not doing too bad but I also have to be careful because some meds are not good for your kidneys. Even though my one works perfectly, that is my ONLY one so I can't be messing around too much. I know, again, if I worked out again like I use to – my guess is I can get rid of at least 2 of those meds, maybe even at least one.
Comment by Dottie — December 18, 2008 @ 6:33 pm
Sorry, I'm back again because I just noticed something. The time that our posts are posted, is weird. THe last two I posted, it says "6:29pm" and "6:33pm" respectively. I live in the Pacific time zone in that wonderful snowbound ski resort called Las Vegas where it is now only 2:36pm!! Where, other than in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, could it be after 6:30 in the evening??? Eastern time would only be 5:36pm, Central 4:36pm, mountain 3:36pm. I don't get it!
Comment by Dottie — December 18, 2008 @ 6:36 pm
Thanks Dottie in regards to the information of BP drugs not being good on ones
kidneys. that is my huge concern taking Tekturna as it works directly in the
kidneys. Since it is relatively a new drug that also concerns me. Has anyone
taking Tekturna been diagnosed with kidney concerns? Should we be having an
urine test while taking this med? Does anyone have feedback? If so, I would
appreciate it. I have noticed a big difference in urine color.
Comment by Angie — December 18, 2008 @ 6:58 pm
Dottie
Don't beat yourself up for having an occasional bite of ice cream or chocalate.
Myhusband has horrible knees,, so he just does the treadmill everyday. He is now walking up to 4 miles and day, and his knee's are actually feeling better.
Doctor said just plain walking is the best exercise you can give yourself…. Maddy
Comment by maddy — December 18, 2008 @ 7:11 pm
Judy,
Yes, Iv'e noticed that myself, something else Iv'e noticed checking places like WebMD for reviews of bp meds.
Most men do well on all bp meds, women seem to be the ones having the problems with all Bp Meds…
Hey RJS have any suggestions????
Maddy
Comment by maddy — December 18, 2008 @ 7:13 pm
Angie: When I took Tekturna for those 4 days, I swear I hard pee'd at all!!! I would literally go all day without going and I drink a LOT of water all day long. I also had awful headaches, headaches that I was getting prior to ending up in the ER with a HUGE kidney infection (and subsequently them finding the tumor on my kidney). One of my BP meds I take now is Lisiniprol which is kind to your kidneys. I also take Clonidine, Norvasc and Avalpro. All these drugs STILL don't get my BP down to what is good which is around 130/80 for having one kidney. I have these very high spikes when I get home at night around 6:00. A couple of times the numbers scared me ie 170/100!! But then a little lwhile later, it would go down to 150/80. I sometimes think it's my monitor even though I replaced the batteries a couple of weeks ago. My doctors and I cannot figure out why that happens since I take enough damn stuff during the day (I divide everything up all day long with Clonidine being the last since it will put you to sleep standing up). I'm not stressed driving home. I have recently been layed off from my job (I have until the end of January to find another one) but I'm not THAT stressed about it. I just don't know. Again, though, I keep telling myselfl "get thee to the gym" and see what happens. I KNOW it'll work because during the summer I was going 4X a week and doing moderate cardio and after 4 weeks of this, ALL my numbers went down – BP, GL's and even my fat belly!! So that right there is proof positive!!
Comment by Dottie — December 18, 2008 @ 7:19 pm
Dotti, Thanks for all your feedback. Wow between all of us struggling with BP readings and side effects it sure can make one feel helpless and frustrated.
In reference to your high BP readings, they are low compared to mine. I knew
something was wrong as I felt my whole body feel "out of control". I took my reading and I was so scared as it read 190/99 …….I totally freaked out! I then
took a whole pill of Xanax, waited and then took it again about 1/2 later….it
then read 130/79. Huge difference. Now shamelessly, I rarely take my BP reading. I get so stressed out that it is not worth it. I take it maybe once a week. I, too, though am with constant headaches. Yesterday was not a good day….thought my head was going to explode. I do have an appt next week so
we will see what my doctor suggests. I, too, know that when I was more diligent about walking and eating better my BP reading were better. It is just
too cold these days to be walking……in the 20 to 30"s. Lastly, so sorry that you got layed off. I hope that changes for you soon.
Comment by Angie — December 18, 2008 @ 8:46 pm
Angie: The headaches may not be from your BP. One of the only symptoms I had before I was diagnosed with Type II diabetes was headaches. That is THE only thing and I was lucky because when I was first diagnosed, my total 2-hr fasting number was only 185, which is very low so I didn't have it for a long time. I would get headaches in the middle of the night and sometimes wake up with one. Even now, I get that headache in the middle of thenight because my glucose levels go up in the middle of the night, which is normal (and I've had a slight headache off and on today thanks to that damn popcorn we've been munching all day so I know my GL's have been too high). That's just another thing to check off the list – diabetes – when you go to the doctor. I have to test my BP every day becuase of my kidney. I have to monitor it pretty closely.
Comment by Dottie — December 18, 2008 @ 8:52 pm
Hm…..that is very interesting! Last visit to the doctor after taking a blood analysis my blood sugar was high. My doctor did not want to put me on meds right away so just told me to take 2 tablets of cinnamon daily, get off sodas,
and anything with sugar ( a huge challenge). I also took a vitamin for diabetics
and began walking. Next checkup two weeks later my blood sugar reading was
normal. So that was that. Of course, I never got it checked again so I definitely will check it out next week. i really thank you for the observation. Take care.
Comment by Angie — December 18, 2008 @ 9:11 pm
Well, I've been taking Tekturna HCT for nine weeks. It was working GREAT at controlling my BP until three days ago. Now it's going up, up and away again! I'm so annoyed. Now what am I supposed to do? I don't think there's anything left to try. I can't say Tekturna is my favorite thing in the world because of all the side effects I'm experiencing but I was willing to put up with them because I loved reading the low BPs every time I took it. I'm at the end of my rope. Any ideas/suggestions?
Thanks so much—and Happy New Year to everyone.
Comment by Judy — January 2, 2009 @ 8:18 am
Hi Judy,
I have been taking tekturna for 2 years now along with the .2 clonidine patch. ( this after almost a year of different combinations with terrible side effects or no effect) MY BP like yours stabilized once Tekturna and clondine combo was tried. It stayed in the 120/70-80 ranges most days but every now and then ( later a pattern emerged- they finally asked me to keep a journal ) my BP bumped up to 170-190 with other symptoms and then fall back to normal for weeks. So they gave me clondine pills which I took on those 3-4 days which always happen in a cluster. Worked great for me. 3 months ago we even cut my tekturna down from 300 to 150 mg. These 'episodes' are interesting and according to all the many DR I was sent to ( they looked for many things, cushings, pheo tumors, cortisol etc.) They concluded it was caused by hormone fluctaions. Now after 2 years these episodes are much smaller- while still occuring there are fewer symptoms and BP highs (140-150 range) and much easier to reduce with less clonidine or even meditation and a relaxation tech I learned to do. I am glad we worked thru it and I was able to stay on tekturna. For me learning to meditate was incrediable – I wasn't a believer at all but over time to effects have been dramatic but subtle.
Debbie
Comment by Debbie — January 2, 2009 @ 10:46 am
Thanks, Debbie
I appreciate the time you took to answer me. I have an appointment in three weeks to see the doctor. Right now, I'm inclined to wait and keep monitoring my bp. If it goes over 200/100, I'll just go to the ER (again). I just can't stand this constant battle with trying to control something that's so out of whack. The side effects every time I try something new are horrendous and I'm not looking forward to that again. When do you get to the point where you say, okay, my bp obviously can't be controlled and this is just the way it is and I'll have to live (or more likely) die with the consequences? (As you might guess, I'm more than a little depressed right now:()
Comment by Judy — January 2, 2009 @ 11:44 am
Just wondering—what kind of specialty are your doctors? I've only gone to my regular internist. Is there a special type of doctor I should consider consulting?
Thanks:)
Judy
Comment by Judy — January 3, 2009 @ 12:46 pm
Judy
I know you have an appt with your doctor in 3 weeks, but if you been on this medicine 9 weeks and your pressure is going back up, call and let him know. I had to go to the doctor just before Christmas because I caught a bug, was coughing and sore throat. Never even thought about my bp when i went. The nurse took it and didnt say anything so I figured it was probably still high, but the doctor came in and said he was really glad about my bp. I said, What was it? He said 106/74. I couldnt beleive it, I hadnt bothered to take it at all for the 3 weeks before, since I had started Sular.
Sular is an Calcium Channel blocker which I had never tried before. The side effect was headaches, but nothing noncontrollable. You cant eat anything for an hour after you take it, or two hours after youve eaten. So i take it first thing in the morning and just wait an hour to eat.
I don't know how long this will last, but for now, Im very Thankful its working.. And there are still many other bp meds your doctor can try.
Please don't give up, but be sure and keep your doctor informed. Maddy
Comment by maddy — January 3, 2009 @ 3:00 pm
I have been on Sular for about 6 weeks. BP is lower. However, I have also had a swollen eye from time to time (the reason I was taken off of Lisinopril). Not sure if the cause is the Sular or my typically dry eyes (I use preservative free eye drops). Anyway, with Sular you have to make sure to floss your teeth after every meal; it has a tendency to cause gum disease. It also tremendously increases my appetite.
Always something.
It has been very cold, snowy around here so I miss the long walks and sunshine in summer that really helped to lower the BP.
Comment by Nancy V. — January 3, 2009 @ 4:09 pm
Hi Judy,
I hear your depression and frustration and I am sorry you are going thru this. I hope you have family and someone you can talk to. I experienced that depression plus I was just plain scared and confused. I too went to ER a few times, was finally put on xanax and Lexapro for a time. ( I actually think these helped me on many levels for the first part of my process into sudden and uncontrolled BP- I had never been depressed before this time nor since..knock on wood). I was struggling and had a difficult time coping with it all – the side effects didn't help. I just plodded along and soon found the right combinations of doctors and medicines. I combined western and eastern medicine at the advise of my GP who was there for me all the way. You asked who I see- I see a GP, a cardiologist, an acupuncturist and I pay for a massage twice a month plus I meditate and have learned how to finally relax deeply. All of this was unheard of for me 2+ years ago. To answer your question, I never said I accept the High BP. I just kept searching.
The first thing that helped me was a device called an emwave. It helped me regulate and calmly breathe slowly. Amazing devise.
Debbie
Comment by Debbie — January 3, 2009 @ 10:44 pm
Wow, here we are starting 2009 and still struggling with high BP and side effects from meds. I, too, am sick and tired of the continuing roller coaster of fear,
frustration and anxiety of not being able to control my BP. The weird thing is that I recently had to be taken to Emergency Hospital due to a severe panic attack. I usually take 1/2 xanax which helps me sleep due to the increased stress and fear I feel at night. I live alone and I am OK until I go to bed. The ER
doctor took my BP which was high but then asked me to sit, stand, lay down and then to my surprise told me that he did not think I should be on BP medications.
I was stunned! He explained that most people's reading changes all through the
day. I do not get it!
Even now as I am writing I can feel and know my BP is high. This morning I took by BP – it was 150/75. I then went for a short walk and came home feeling better and took it again. This time it was 125/75. My lower number
is always OK. It is the top number that at times just soars. I am so sick and
tired of seeing doctors and being afraid that I am going to do some suggested
meditation, perhaps yoga and continue my walks. I do take 150mg of Tekturna and panic taking it since it is relatively a new medication . I don't know what "emwave" is but I am going to research it and give it a try.
Thanks to all …….everyone's post helps.
Comment by Angie — January 4, 2009 @ 12:30 am
Hi,
Blood pressure does fluctuate- I think the concern for me now is finding ways to reduce it with less and less medication – but because I have both parents with PB issues, I may need some medication for the rest of my life. I used to hate taking the Tekturna ( although it worked with no side effects for me) and now I see it as a blessing that it works. My mind set has changed- finally.
Emwave is put out by a company called Heartmath. I love in Boulder Creek where it is made and it is a BIG thing up here. Many doctors know of it around here.
Debbie
Comment by Debbie — January 4, 2009 @ 1:18 am
Thanks Debbie for the update on Emwave. It looks very encouraging and it is endorsed by may reputable doctors and hospitals. I am definitely going to buy one. I think you are right in us finding ways to calm down and have alternatives to medications to help us lower our BP. I have noticed that most postings here
are made by women. I do know men who have high BP but they seem to handle it better I guess. My brother has BP issues but has been on the same medication for years now and his readings never change…….always normal. He is on Diovan and Prazason (Minipress). I don't know why it did not work as well on me. I started having severe hair loss which I thought was due to the Diovan but now think it was due to Stress. Hope we all do better this year. Good luck to all.
Comment by Angie — January 4, 2009 @ 2:30 am
Angie,
You wrote indirectly something my doctors and I spent a great deal of time dealing with – hormones. I don't think men handle this better, I think it is a hormonal difference. I was finally sent up to Stanford to see a cardiologist who was interested in hormones and PB. She along with others was very clear that my sudden onset 'malignant HPB' ,depression etc was due to my going into menopause. I was told numerous times after I was scanned by every known device that it was hormonal and hereditary. I too had sudden panic attacks-again none before a few years ago and none now. It was as if my mind/body flipped out over my decreasing estrogen etc. And it was so sudden and severe that took me so off guard! They tested all my hormones too- cortisol was high and a few others hormones were off. The odd thing as soon as they put me on any dose of estrogen my BP soared! This was confusing until a doctor who had seen this before said some women have adverse reactions like mine to estrogen. I use other supplements my acupuncturist and GP recommended for hormones and they are helping (I know this due to if I stop hot flashes are wild!) I am fortunate that I have a doctor who is also well versed and recommends good folks in alternative medicines and therapies. I am glad you are looking into the emwave. I got mine from heartmath because I live in Boulder Creek where the company is- but I also bought one for my son off ebay a bit cheaper.
Anyway, my rambling post is trying to say that for me I think women are on this board primarily for two reasons: our hormones make us more prone to the anxiety, etc., and women I think prefer to talk and network about issues than men. Women reach out to others easier I think.
Debbie
Comment by Debbie — January 4, 2009 @ 12:38 pm
Thanks Debbie and everyone else for your responses and comments. I think another reason women are having more trouble with the BP meds is because to a large extent, the trials are on men, supposedly average men, who—at least compared to me–are twice as big. I remain short, very thin and very active. Your "average" male in the studies is much taller, MUCH heavier and much more sedentary than I am. I'm looking into the emwave and I've also come across Resperate. Anyone know anything either positive or negative about that one? I'm going to try to make an appointment with a cardiologist at a very large university-associated, well-regarded hospital not too far from me to see if that might help to conquer this ridiculous rising and falling BP of mine. Any other suggestions, please send them my way.
Comment by Judy — January 4, 2009 @ 12:47 pm
Thanks Debbie. You make a good point and opened the possibility that it may
be well worth my effort to speak to my doctor about getting a hormonal blood test to see if I have unbalanced hormones. I went into menopause in my
early 40's so it is definitely possible that my hormones are off. I already know that I cannot take hormone replacement (well at least not estrogen) as I once did and got terrible acne which left me with facial scaring. Something else which gets me down.
With the New Year here I am going to approach my BP issues differently.
I am in the process of buying the Emwave, continue my walks and change
my frustration with a positive attitude. Taking Zanax really helps me but
I feel as though I am getting "hooked" on it……..not so good even though
I only take 1/2 a pill at night.
I am grateful for all your information…….I feel hopeful. Your statements on men having different hormonal differences also make great sense to me.
You have been a great help……thanks so much and have a great day.
Angie
Comment by Angie — January 4, 2009 @ 1:04 pm
Hi,
I too looked into Resperate but got the emwave and veered into another direction. I can't give you any feedback on the Resperate. What I found was that during all this time I have learned A LOT about myself. For that I am thankful- odd that I say this and I pause even as I write it…2- 3 years ago I would have never believed it or thought my journey would lead to this thinking.
As to the xanax- I understand your worry about addiction. I share it. I have problems mentally taking any thing on a regular bases. I have a strong aversion to anything that alters my state of mind. I like to feel clear headed and in control ( which is by the way a double edge sword as I have learned) . I think if xanax or the like is used as needed while learning how to manage anxiety then as a bridge it is great. I still have a prescription I seldom use except on those episodes I still get in a consistent pattern- hormones induced. I was very careful with it and still am.
I recall when this all started that I also struggled with my strong emotional reactions to taking drugs. I told my doctor of my internal struggle with all the medication and my preference to 'herbs' . She smiled and rattled off a bunch of 'herbs' that are now medicines. It was a point I didn't forget. I finally found a balance I can live between western and alternative meds and have come to accept that Tekturna is actually helping me for now.
This subtle shift in mental attitude has helped me.
I am also getting ready for a hip replacement in 8 weeks-sigh…So this BP process is also good in that I have learned how to relax and accept things easier. I know I would have been a wreck going into this 3 years ago.
Debbie
Comment by Debbie — January 4, 2009 @ 1:53 pm
"I then went for a short walk and came home feeling better and took it again. This time it was 125/75"
I believe this is THE BEST thing for our high BP: EXERCISE!! Last summer, I was on a semi-intense work out routine. For 4 weeks, I went 4X a week, doing 50 mminutes of cardio plus weight resistance Machines. After only 4 weeks,my BP went down on both numbers by about 10pts and those number stayed consistent for a couple of weeks after; my cholesteral numbers were down significantly AND I actually lost inches everywhere! I was shocked because I totally was convinced that, because of my age (I'll be 60 this year), my belly fat would never go down!! But it did!!! So exercise does work!! (Now I just have to go back to it!!)
And as Debbie said – our hormones play havoc with us for the rest of our lives!! Lack of sleep? Boom! The hormones get all messed up. Stressed? Again, the hormones get short circuited. A diabetic? Forget it!! Your body doesn't know WTF is happening!! Our bodies are just one big hormonal mess. Try and explain this to a man!! They think you're crazy or are making up excuses why you put on 10 lbs and you're not eating anything! And as you get older, it gets worse. It's just a never ending battle.
Comment by Dottie — January 5, 2009 @ 1:11 pm
I wish exercise was as successful for me as it is for you. I run a minimum of 3 miles every day, I do Pilates, I do cardio, I do yoga….Yes, my BP is down immediately after I run (not so for Pilates, cardio or yoga) but it doesn't stay down. Maybe my body is so accustomed to exercise that for me it's the norm. I don't know. I don't exercise with the hope that it will lower or control my BP—although it sure would be nice if it did.
On to something else—I made an appointment to see a cardiologist earlier this morning but his first available appointment is January 29th at 8 AM. That seems like such a long time to wait….. Maybe this guy will figure out what to do to control my BP—at least I hope so.
Comment by Judy — January 5, 2009 @ 2:40 pm
Judy, It does take some time to get that first appt. with a cardo, but this is a move in the right direction in my opinion.
If he/she seems to think all women are neurotic and a bother…run…….and find another cardio! It is my opinion that women do not get good health care . Hang in here and best wishes. I know how frustrating this is. We do finally have my BP under control.
Comment by Sue — January 5, 2009 @ 3:00 pm
Thanks, Sue for your kind comments. The doctor with whom I made the appointment is a researcher and part of a large cardiology practice at Duke University Medical Center. There are several women in the practice, too. I agree with you about women receiving inferior medical care—I've been the victim of that more times than I care to remember. The internist I see now is not like that at all, which is probably why I've stayed with him so long.
Comment by Judy — January 5, 2009 @ 3:25 pm
Nancy
Well I have false teeth, so im not to worried about gum disease, lol on sular. I have the new sular, which is time release supposedly, and although I have had headaches some, and extremely dry mouth, Im hoping thats all the side effects I end up with.. My pharmicist told me this medicine is more popular in Europe and hasnt really caught on here in the states yet.
I take it first thing in the morning with a whole glass of water, and you can't eat for at least an hour after you take it.
Im hoping it continues to work, let me know how you are doing on it…. Maddy
Comment by maddy — January 5, 2009 @ 3:49 pm
I'm sorry to hear, Judy and Sue, that you're not happy with how you are getting health care. When I lived in Chicago, my internist was almost obsessive about womens' issues, especially heart disease. I now live in Las Vegas and I find BOTH of my doctors are totally obsessed with it!! My endo doctor always is making me go for tests and also does a lot of tests right in her office – she does this because of my being diabetic and heart disease being a possible byproduct of that disease. My internist, too, is always very attentive to all the diseases, both related to diabetes and not, that women used to fall in the cracks with. I have a friend who moved here about a year and a half ago and at the time, she was 6 months away from being at the 5 year cancer-free mark when she was diagnosed with it again. She almost went back to Chicago so she could go back to her doctors there, but decided to see what the oncologists here had to say. She was glad she stayed here because the doctors here were much much better than those in Chicago – and those who were doctors at one of the best hospitals in the country!! The doctors here knew of new treatments which the doctors back in Chicago didn't even TRY when she was there. So she is very happy. She has accepted the fact that she will always have cancer, and she is just learningi to live with it.
Comment by Dottie — January 5, 2009 @ 5:24 pm
Hi,
I to use to believe that exercise helped BP too and before all this I swam 3-4 times a week (bad hip all my life). Once BP diagnosed-the excise didn't help at all so I was discouraged. What helped me in dramatic ways was meditation (a side note it also helped with my attention and concentration which was an added perk) I also stretch and try Yoga ( hip makes it hard) This gentle approach seems to be what helps my body and mind- go figure. Really if you knew me this would surprise you as much as it did me and family. I was ( glimmers still there!) a very active ( some say hyper active person
tons of energy and stamina…. sitting down to be quiet was so hard at 1st! My 1st 2 months or so of meditation was hysterical. I'd lie down flat, ipod on, breathing well ( thanks emwave) and suddenly I was up doing something- dishes, dusting you name it. Without even realizing I had gotten up ! so reflexive was my constant 'doing.' I could not sit still for any length of time.
Also, YES, find a doctor who listens to YOU! if you don't like your Dr go out and find one you do. Also, I have learned I must be very organized, and take charge of my own health care. I do not just accept what they tell me- I often go in with written questions. I am nice but I want to understand what is happening at all times and I want my opinions heard. It's hard I know I still get nervous when I ask questions but it is so important and I have found the good ones don't mind at all. I also like a doctor with a sense of humor- a big criteria for me. Helps me feel comfortable.
Debbie
Comment by Debbie — January 6, 2009 @ 10:38 am
Debbie: I know that if I lose just 20lbs, that's going to help my BP. So that is one of my priorities this year – lose this weight already! It will help my BP, cholesteral and my diabetes. I have to really push myself to get motivated; so far, I'm not doing too bad. I also have to go find a new job since I was layed off from my current one. That in itself is very stressful.
I'm with you about finding a doctor who will listen. My internist is wonderful!! I'm always in there more than the alloted time; we talk not only about my health but everything else, too!!! She also appreciates that I take my health matters into my own hand and ask questions and also I've been known to bring her stuff off the internet and she does appreciate that. My endocrinologist is another matters. She's nice enough when she wants to be, but she is stand offish a t times and doesn't let me talk as much as I would like when I have questions. Her practice is very busy so sometimes I attribute her attitude towards that. I can tell by how many are waiting in the waiting room on what her attitude will be. When its empty – she's great!! When it's not – forget it. Not only will she be rushed, but the visit turns into a 2.5 hr ordeal!!! One time I got so mad and told them that I have a job and my time is just as important. If i LOSE my job, you will not only lose a patient but your bill's not going to get paid. It helped – for maybe one visit and then it went back to normal!! I also NEVER take a new drug without doing research. She is the one that prescribed the Tekturna. She never ever gives samples so when I stopped taking it, I was out the money that I paid for it. (She also was pissed that I stopped taking it without her knowledge!). My other doctor is always giving me free stuff!! My endo prescribed the new diabetes drug Januvia. I was telling my internist that I hate when Dr. A does that because what if I can't take it? Then I'm out the mo ney again. So she was nice enough to give me a month's supply of the drug!! And luckily – I can take with hardly any side effects and it's a great drug!!
Comment by Dottie — January 6, 2009 @ 1:21 pm
Is it just me or does anyone else notice tremendous variations in BP readings at different times of the day? I find that within an hour or so after I take my Tekturna HCT I have pretty much my lowest reading of the day no matter what I do…exercise, no exercise, etc. I also find that after about 4PM my BP starts going upwards…sometimes so much so that I feel at any moment I'm going to have to go visit the ER….Anyone else experiencing anything like this or know of an explanation for it? Thanks:) Judy
Comment by Judy — January 11, 2009 @ 12:54 pm
Dear Judy,
We seem to be having an identical problem. My afternoon levels are way too high and the only thing that seems to bring it down is clonidine. I tried Tekturna but it had no effect. My renin levels are normal but my doctor wants me to take another ACE Inhibitor in addition to the clonidine. I can see why they say medicine is more of an art than science. It seems like a guessing game.
Comment by Patty — January 11, 2009 @ 6:25 pm
Thanks, Patty, for answering so quickly. It makes me feel less alone to know I'm not the only one with these problems.
Judy
Comment by Judy — January 11, 2009 @ 7:28 pm
Judy,
You are not alone for sure. I too have my BP reading fluctuate drastically. I am on Tekturna which I am not sure is the right medicine for me. I am so tired of
trying so many meds – each bringing different side effects. I so wish we could all find a magic pill. I do know that everyones BP reading is different throughout the day depending what we are doing. I share your concern though when our readings climb so much. Are you just on 1 medicine? I used to be on 2 before my doctor gave me the Tekturna. When I was on Diovan and Minipress I had fluctuations at times as well but not as many as I do now. Anyway, many of share your concern. Take care.
Comment by Angie — January 11, 2009 @ 10:54 pm
Angie–
Right now I'm "only" taking Tekturna HCT. I know exactly what you mean about the side effects—sure, I have plenty of them with this medication but I'm used to them now and I really don't want to try anything else and have something worse. I know that it's "normal" for BP to fluctuate throughout the day but being on medication is supposed to somewhat control that. Sure I know that if I didn't take anything my BP would be off the charts—but would it also be more consistent? I don't know how good this 50-75 point yo-yoing of my BP day after day can be…. I have an appointment on the 29th and I'd so like to cancel it. I just know I'm going to be dealing with not only a new doctor but I'm sure I'll be told that there are tests and scans that I need and then I'll probably have to take additional medicine and deal with new side effects. Very depressing:( My husband would like me to plan a short vacation and I'm really afraid to, knowing what's coming up.
Judy
Comment by Judy — January 12, 2009 @ 6:25 am
Judy and Patty: For awhile there, when I got home from work about 6:00, my BP was so high!! At times, it scared me because it was abnormally "stroke" high! But then it would go down. I couldn't figure out why that was since I was never stressed out on the way home. I haven't checked it in about 6 weeks so I don't know if it's still doing that. I take Clonidine but not until after I get home. I take 3 per day and at first I was taking the first one in the morning after breakfast. By 10:30am, I was falling asleep sitting at my desk!! At lunch time, I sometimes had to go find an empty office to take a 20 minute cat nap! Then my doctor suggested to start taking them in the evening and that's what I now do. One at about 6:30, and I have found just recently, the other two about 9:00-9:30. If I take them later, after 10:00, I get up in the morning feeling foggy and extremely tired. The couple of times that my BP was sooo high, it so happened that the night before I forgot to take my 3 Clonidine so my BP was even higher in the morning when I got up and stayed kind of high all day. I have one kidney (and diabetes) so I take 4 different meds during the day. But, as BOTH my doctors told me: get thee to thy gym!! If anything, that alone will help the diabetes! I really would love to get off at least 2 of these BP meds, but I don't know if that's possible because of the kidney situation. My doctor did tell me that it is not uncommon anymore for someone to be on 3-4 different BP meds, regardless of any other complications such as diabetes or being overwieght. She has some young 20-30 something patients and some of them are on 2-4 different types of BP meds because they are so stressed out.
I also have learned NOT to take my BP all the time during the day. It fluctuates too much. It is also normal for anyone's BP to be higher in the mornings
Comment by Dottie — January 12, 2009 @ 1:52 pm
I saw the cardiologist on Thursday and he wants to, at this time, add Coreg ER to my regimen. But, he's also like to get me off Tekturna eventually. He doesn't think the Tekturna is doing what it should be and apparently, the studies he's been involved in don't have enough positive conclusive evidence about its long term effects. I have no problems getting off Tekturna…it's expensive and right now it's not controlling my BP. My first question is, has anyone here ever taken Coreg ER and if so, how was it? What sorts of side effects, etc? I've read everything I can find about it and it definitely scares me. Second question–what have any of you heard/read about the long term Tekturna effects?
Comment by Judy — January 31, 2009 @ 7:39 am
Hi Judy,
I am on Tekturna too and have done hours of research on it. There is really not that much info since it is relatively a new drug as you said. And that is my concern . I do not have insurance and I agree it is very expensive. It is helping my lower BP reading – it is always around 76-82 but the upper number is still
high – 145-150 which is high. I have never heard of Coreg ER. Is it supposedly going to replace the Tekturna as you said "eventually get off the tekturna".
Just remember that anytime someone makes a complaint about a drug, they
have to post it to the public so maybe it won't affect you in the same way. I know it is really hard to battle HBP….wish I could help you more. thanks for the post as I want to get off Tekturna as well. Good luck and keep us posted if you get on the Coreg ER. I am going to ask my dr about it as well.
Comment by Angie — January 31, 2009 @ 12:34 pm
I mis-typed the name of the new drug the doctor gave me—it's actually Coreg CR. Coreg's not a new drug but the 'continued release" CR—is a new version of it. I see that it's not covered by my insurance:( Anyway, the cardio doc thinks I need the CR because of the tremendous daily fluctuations of my BP. We'll see what happens…and what the side effects are going to be. I'm sure we've all researched the heck out of Tekturna — at least I know I did! My internist is always amazed at the random info I spout about it during my visits. Anyway, back to the Coreg CR–one of the side effects that totally scares me is that supposedly people who wear contact lenses could experience dry eyes and be unable to continue to wear the lenses. Of course, I wear contacts. I can't use an eye lubricant because there isn't one on the market that's preservative free–another one of my issues–I'm allergic to preservatives in contact lense liquid and cosmetics. So, when I read that side effect, I sort of freaked. The doctor, his PA and his nurse all have called me back to tell me that should this problem occur, it's reversable when I stop the medication. I can't find any documentation to support that:( Also, there's supposedly a large number of people taking the Coreg CR who gain weight. Losing that weight is next to impossible:( The thought of that is unacceptable to me. Bad enough I'm exhausted all the time; now they want me to be a fat, tired person who has to wear glasses? I can picture many of you saying, boy is she vain. And I can understand that… But I'm an active person, would like to continue being so, I see much, much better with my contacts….I could go on and on but you probably get the point. I want my BP controlled but I still want my life. Being unable to do anything because of the side effects of the drug I'm in is not acceptable.
Comment by Judy — February 1, 2009 @ 7:13 am
Judy,
Just a thought…Re: preservative free eye drops that I have to use for dry eyes do not come in a bottle. Any drops that come in a bottle that you reuse will have preservatives in it.
Have you checked in the individual packaged vials that come in a box? This is probably no help at all….I do not wear contacts so I'm not familiar as to how the liquids you use are packaged. I'm having major eye problems now, but not from BP meds I use. Just don't let that BP go and risk having a stroke.
No you aren't vain, but eye glasses and a little weight gain aren't the end of the world. Best wishes.
Comment by Sue — February 1, 2009 @ 5:21 pm
Judy,
About the eye drops- I have dry eyes and use the individual drops which are preservative free.
Debbie
Comment by Debbie — February 1, 2009 @ 5:36 pm
What I have noticed about Tekturna and Sular and the mention of Coreg, etc. is none of them are perfect and all of them have undesirable side effects. My research shows that there are literally hundreds of BP meds and everyone reacts differently to them. Most people go on diuretics and then an ACE. Norvasc is also quite popular. Since doctors have no idea what medication will work best, they give us the most popular ones — the "one size fits all approach". Of course, when we don't have good results, we are frustrated.
I wish I knew the answer. It would be wonderful if there was just one great pill without side effects that would lower our BP. Did you ever notice some ot the commericals on TV for different types of medications and then the mention the "possible" side-effects, sometimes they mention in "rare cases, fatal side-effects". In "rare" cases? I don't care if only one person suffered a fatal heart attack from a medication, that is one too many.
Some people have mentioned the poor quality of life on these meds. It seems to be a trade-off. Take the BP med and feel like garbage or discontinue and possibly die. Not very good options. I think the less meds the better, but, unfortunately, sometimes that is all that is offered. Has anyone gone to a doctor that prescribed a low BP menu, like the DASH Diet or suggested the right exercise program?
Also, there is a lot of research on Vitamin D not only being helpful for bones but for the heart. Anyone been put on an increased Vitamin D regime?
Comment by Nancy V. — February 2, 2009 @ 12:49 am
Nancy,
I have tried so many BP meds I know, just as you do, no one drug is for everyone. They all have side effects.
I am slowed down by the BP meds, but I take them. I have seen what a stroke can do to a person. I'm glad you brought up the Vitamin D issue. About a year ago one of my drs. had my Vit. D level checked. I couldn't believe I was so low on it. I live in Az where the sun shines. I was told the sun screen products we use blocks or decreases Vitamin D absorption. I suggest you see a doctor as to dosage. I was initaly put on 50,000 IU (not a typo) once a day for a month about a year ago. It helped but not for long. The level dropped again and I tried 5,000 IU's once a week for a while.
That has been changed to 2,000 IU's per day 3 months ago. I don't know how it works, but it helps with the fatigue……okay it works for me or I'm just a nut. With all the BP meds I have tried maybe it's both. LOL Seriously my endocrinologist put me on Vitamin D. He's a firm believer in it. Please check with your doctor.I am offering a suggestion, not advice!! I am not a doctor..just another person with HBP like you. The huge dose is prescription only and may not be used anymore.
Best wishes!
Comment by Sue — February 2, 2009 @ 1:44 am
Just wanted to give you an update. I'm no longer on any Tekturna. Some of the horrible side effects are definitely leaving, only to be replaced with the side effects of what I am on now. For about a week I took Coreg CR; that definitely did a number on me. I was unable to continue with that and only hope that what it did to my eyes will reverse. Now I'm on Bystolic 5mg. I haven't been on it very long and the biggest change I notice is that it's slowed down my pulse rate. That's good. Bystolic has it's own side effects for me namely constant headaches and nausea. From what I've read that's supposed to either clear up or go away withing about 3-4 weeks. Does anyone here have any knowledge of or experience with Bystolic? I guess since I no longer take Tekturna that's the end of my contributions to this blog. Thanks for all the support you've given me!!! Good luck to you all.
Comment by Judy — February 16, 2009 @ 10:13 am
Judy,
The best to you- come back and let us know how you are doing every now and then.
Debbie
Comment by Debbie — February 16, 2009 @ 11:54 am
Dear Judi,
I'm no longer on Tekturna either but I like to check into this site anyway. I was on three meds for BP until two weeks ago and now I am on one. I went to see a "Holistic" MD who put me on a huge dose of Vitamin D, because my level was low), and magnesium. Vit D acts like an ACE Inhibitor (like Tekturna) in the kidney, and magnesium acts like a Calcium Channel blocker (like norvasc or amlodipine). My pressure on my one remaining drug is the same as when I was taking all three. I am so encouraged and hope others will investigate these supplements.
Comment by Patty — February 16, 2009 @ 5:12 pm
Hi,
I am very interested in what you wrote as my BP is dropping slowly now and I am only on 150 mg of Tekturna every other day. I have found accupunture and meditation also helpful. I am curious about what you wrote-
I went to see a "Holistic" MD who put me on a huge dose of Vitamin D, because my level was low), and magnesium.
I am on daily Calcium /Mag. and Zinc and Vit D. What are your huge dosage? I don't take a large dose just daily maintenance.
Thanks,
debbie
Comment by Debbie — February 16, 2009 @ 5:37 pm
Debbie,
I was just SO tired of going to an internist who was only interested in putting out fires; giving me a diagnosis or a new medication. I wanted someone who would take time and connect the dots, so to speak. I heard about a board certified family practice physician in my town who takes the whole person in account and assesses nutritional status. I was taking 800 iu of Vit D for months and my level was only 14! Since i live in alaska, I knew I didn't get enough sunlight like other Americans, but this shocked me. The normal levels are 50 and above. My new Doc wants levels above 100. He put me on 50,000 ius a day for a month, and then I'm to go three times a week. I know it sounds shocking but I'm close to having osteoporosis and he is certain my low levels of this Vitamin is the cause, as well as contributing to my hypertension. Thanks for your interest. Patty
Comment by Patty — February 16, 2009 @ 8:06 pm
Wow, all your lasts posts are amazing. Quite coincidentally, I went to a health store because I read a study which posted that taking Apple Cider Vinegar and Honey lowers your BP. I am on Tekturna and scared to death being it has not been on the market long enough to know its long term usage. I have an appt. with the owner of this health store who is a Dr. PH, MPH . The clerk told me that he has helped many people get off medications which he feels are very dangerous. And, I agree when she mentioned that high BP is not a disease but a symptom of something else in our bodies. So, perhaps, Vitamin D could indeed be a factor. I will be seeing him tomorrow and will let you all know what he tells me and what he recommends. Also, when one has a chemistry blood panel,
does it usually show our vitamin deficiencies or is this a special test that is
taken? I hope someone answers before I go to the doctor tomorrow.
thanks, angie
Comment by Angie — February 16, 2009 @ 9:11 pm
Angie,
Re: you question about the test for Vit. D. All I can do is tell you where I am, it's a separate test. I was on a huge dose of Vit. D about 2 yrs. ago when I was first tested for a D deficiency. Now I take 2,000 I.U. per day. I will see my dr.
this week and find out if this dose is working.
Best Wishes
Sue
Comment by Sue — February 16, 2009 @ 10:05 pm
Thanks Sue, I appreciate your reply. It is good to know as I live in a small town and needed to know if it was a special test that is taken. Now, I can inquire about that. I cannot eat dairy products so it is definitely worth looking into.
Angie
Comment by Angie — February 16, 2009 @ 10:10 pm
Angie: Seeing a holistic doctor who prescribes Vitamin D after a clinical test is one thing, going to a health food store owner who recommends Vinegar + honey for lowering BP doesn't sound like good sense. I don't mean to be so blunt, but, if vinegar+ honey was the answer, we would all be healthy.
Vitamin D has been in the news for quite some time and seems to be effective for both bone health and heart health.
My MD tested me last year and my Vit. D level was only 21. He gave me the prescription but the dose was too high, made me go to the bathroom constantly. Wonder how Sue managed on the high dose. Anyway, it was in spring and I got out in the sun every sunny day in Illinois + I took 2000 mg of the D everyday. I haven't had my D levels checked since but I had a bone scan and it was remarkably good for my age (69) + my BP is now 128/70.
I am no longer on Tekturna, it had too many bad side effects and my BP was very high on it – 179/82. I am now on Sular but it isn't perfect either. I am having trouble with dry eyes (yes, I take the artificial, non-preservative tear drops, but, I try different brands and they all cause some irritation.)
On cold but sunny + dry days I try to walk at the very least a mile. On bad weather days I just put on my favorite CD and do a modified exercise dance routine for about 1/2 hour. Exercise is really, really important. No getting around it.
I lost some weight but during winter it is difficult. The cold weather + the Sular increases my appetite. I have decided to toss out the tempting foods. If it's around I will eat it. Stock up on fruits, veggies and high protein, low fat meat. Not crazy about fish but have it occasionally and take a fish oil supplement (also prescribed by doctor).
It does help to have a doctor who does more than push the pills.
Comment by Nancy V. — February 16, 2009 @ 10:27 pm
Angie and Nancy,
I live in sunny Az. and my Vit. D has been down to 4. when tested 6 mo. after taking 50,000 I.U. weekly for 3 mo. I was low again.
So I've been on 2,000 daily for 3 mo. now and will find out this week if it's holding steady. I have no bad effects from the Vit D. It makes me feel better and my BP is staying about 130/70.
Angie, I agree with Nancy about the health food store person.
I suggest you stick with the doctor's recommendatons.
And again….Best wishes…to both of you.
Comment by Sue — February 16, 2009 @ 10:45 pm
Thanks Nancy and Sue,
I truly appreciate your thoughts and observations. I totally understand anyones
concern in going to a health store for HBP. I am just so tired of being on medications, living with so many side effects, and ending up with no results to
speak of. My BP with Tekturna is 158/82 and sometimes higher. When I speak to my doctor about it all he wants to do is add another medication and suggests
that I stay on it for a while and see if I get any better results. I guess at this point I am willing to try anything that might work. I am really thankful for your
feedback and will definiitely look into getting a Vitamin D reading soon.
Many thanks, Angie
Comment by Angie — February 16, 2009 @ 11:18 pm
Nancy
Im still on Sular also. I was trying to take it every other day, but guess Im going to have to take it everyday. Cause My BP started going back up.
Your right, it does give you dry mouth, nose, eyes. Im on a low dose 8.5. After 3 weeks in december my bp was 100/66 doc was thrilled, but the dry mouth , nose was driving me nuts. So I thought since it was time release I could take it every other day, the dryness did get better, after the last month, but my BP is going back up…
So back to the routine.
By the way everyone, if you are on BP meds, please check with your Doctor or pharmicist before you take vitamin supplements.
Comment by maddy — February 26, 2009 @ 4:03 pm
Maddy, What is the deal with taking multivitamins with HBP meds? I take double multivitamins that my gynecologists told me to take due to menopausal issues.
Is it dangerous or does it just interfere with the medication. Please write back
what you know. thanks, angie
Comment by Angie — February 26, 2009 @ 11:37 pm
I've been off Tekturna for about 4 weeks now and just found out that my renin level is STILL low. Just wanted to suggest that next time you see your doctor be sure to ask for a renin level test if you haven't had one recently. Also, I had my Vitamin D levels checked and I'm VERY low. I'm expecting to hear from my nephrologist early next week telling me how much Vitamin D I'll need to take.
I hope you're all doing well. I definitely miss writing to all of you and the support I received here.
Comment by Judy — March 13, 2009 @ 8:06 pm
I am off Tekturna after 9mo or longer. I am also off Vitamin D
supplement for now even though my D is extremely low, 4 I believe.
My kidneys have been damaged. I can't be sure yet. I can not discuss this further.
I suggest all of you nice ladies taking Tekterna and huge Vitamin D supplements be extremely careful………..
Comment by Sue — March 13, 2009 @ 10:36 pm
251. contd….I meant to say I can't be sure just yet what caused the damage to my kidneys. I'm a bit shaken up 2 weeks after learning this.
Comment by Sue — March 13, 2009 @ 10:38 pm
Since I've been on Vit D, I've been able to cut out two of my three blood pressure medicines. My doctor told me two interesting things. The first is that Vit D works in the kidney the same way an ACE Inhibitor does (like Tekturna), so I stopped my benazepril (another ACE Inhibitor). The second thing he told me alarmed me. He said not to take an ACE Inhibitor with ibuprofen (Advil, motrin). He said the combo can really damage the kidneys. I take 50,000 iu of Vit D3 three times a week.
Comment by Patty — March 14, 2009 @ 1:19 am
I have terrible lower back and joint pains since taking tekturna, which I started in late October 2008. Does anyone know how long tekturna stays in your system and you no longer have side effects?
Comment by jackie — April 5, 2009 @ 11:26 am
What's happened to this blog? I've been checking in regularly and there haven't been any responses/questions/etc. No action at all!!!!
I've been off Tekturna for about three months and now I'm off Bystolic (well-actually I'm being weaned off at this moment) because that's not working particularly well and the side effects are not good for me.
How are all of you doing? What's new? What's been going on?
Comment by Judy — May 5, 2009 @ 8:07 am
Greetings Everyone! I am just getting off the Tekturna with the HCT 150/12.5
I was only on it for two days and I began having horrible leg cramps plus joint and muscle pain. I knew it was the diuretic in the Tekturna. I went to the dr and I am back in just taking the Tekturna 150 without the diuretic. I still worry about being on any medication not knowing long term effects but I will hope for the best. I am still taking my walks and finally got off Xanax which I am happy about. My BP readings are good and I have no major side effects. Well except for a lot of head congestion. Don't know if there is a connection there due to
Tekturna…….anyone know if this is a possiblity?
Hope everyone is doing well these days?
Comment by Angie — May 5, 2009 @ 10:49 am
Hi Judy,
I am doing well- still taking 150 Tekturna- moving to every other day soon. no problems.
I had started on 300 mg,dropped down to 150 cause BP was very low… DR recommended every other day of 300 but I cut it in half to 150 daily. I experimented with every other day on 150 and did great for a few months except for a few preditcable days a month where I spike with these weird 'episodes' and need extra clonidine. I then had hip surgery so went back to 150 daily… once I get my groove back I'll go back to 150 every other day.
Life is good.
debbie
Comment by Debbie — May 5, 2009 @ 2:25 pm
Hey everyone , its been awhile, I know. Im still taking the Sular extended release tablets, but am going to talk to doctor about it. Im having some muscles aches especially in my feet. They don't swell, just feel like i have stone brusies in both feet when I walk. And Ive been having WEIRD dreams and some funky thoughts. Which is possible with this medicine. Like forgetfullness.
And at night they feel better since im not walking on them but they burn on the bottoms, till I fall asleep. I hate the dream thing though.
Angie, the reason I said be sure and ask your pharmacist about vitamins is cause with some BP meds, vitamins can interfere with the efficency of the your BP med. Doctors don't know alot,Ive decided,, Pharmacists are better to ask.
Maddy
Hope everyone is doing better!
Comment by maddy — June 6, 2009 @ 5:19 pm
i have been taking tekturna 150mg for 3 weeks now.. having some face breakout.. my face has never broke out before..im 39 yrs and i look like a 15 yr face.. breakouts are on my forehead & on the side by the timple area… any body having this problem while they take tekturna…
Comment by lanette — June 10, 2009 @ 5:13 pm
Seems like the only positive comments on this board are from Debbie.
I had problems with Tekturna and the Sular. Now I am on a low dose (2.5) of Amlodipine Besylate (generic Norvasc) and my BP is really high and I am feeling quite depressed. I take 2000/day of the Vitamin D and the doctor wants me to go even higher. We have had terrible, cold, cloudy weather here and wonder if the lack of sunshine is getting me down. I do have SAD during our Chicago area winters.
My MD also wants me to take Klonopin (probably spelled it wrong) but it knocks me out. Then he suggested anti-depressants. Been there, done that. Weight gain, dry eyes, dry mouth, sleepiness. Recent study in local newspaper said there might be a link with anti-depressants and cancer. Mentioned this to doctor and he went nuts. Said it's a lot of nonsense. How can he be so sure? I have an appt. for a consultation with a doctor who takes a more progessive approach to heart disease but he is so popular I have to wait till July 28. In the meantime, I feel like garbage on the Norvasc.
There is no magic wand. As I reflect on all of this it seems that although my BP was high when I first started taking meds 15 years ago (it was around 140/70), since I have been on meds it has been much higher. After being taken off of Lisinopril it shot up to 200/98! The Sular took it down to 127/64 but it gave me terrible tingling in my feet and swollen eye-lids. Now I am lucky if I hit 154/76 (my lower is always good).
If someone has some happy news, please share it.
Comment by Nancy — June 11, 2009 @ 12:16 am
I hope you're all doing well. I'm now on Benazipril (Lotensin) which I've been on for about 4 weeks but the Hypertension doctor was not happy enough with my readings to leave it alone. So, she added the Catapres patch. I put that on around dinner time on Thursday and I'm barely able to function. I'm exhausted, weak and have really no desire to move. I have to say though, that my blood pressure is really low. A little while ago it was 99/70 with a heart rate of 56. Since yesterday morning it's been hovering around 100/68—hence the inability to move. I'm planning to call the doctor tomorrow morning first thing and see what she suggests. If you're like me you probably hate taking your BP and seeing the numbers really high—well, having them this low is no picnic either. My husband has been saying that I'm never satisfied……oh well:(
Comment by Judy — June 14, 2009 @ 5:59 pm
Judy,
I wanted to say that I am still on Tekturna ( no side effects still ) but also the Catapres patch ( which is clonidine). There are different patch dosages. Which one are you on? You can also cut it in half and wear it see if that makes a difference. The patch made a difference for me – I adapted but had to reduce the dose so I wasn't so tired. On a few days in the month I also need to add the clonidine pills they give me because for reasons the Drs have not figured out nothing works well onthose few days and I need more clonidine… which doesn't make me sleepy yet does give me a dry mouth though. Because there is a pattern they think this somewhat predictable flucuation in BP is hormone related.
Debbie
Comment by Debbie — June 14, 2009 @ 6:36 pm
Judy,
I wanted to say that I am still on Tekturna ( no side effects still ) but also the Catapres patch ( which is clonidine). There are different patch dosages. Which one are you on? You can also cut it in half and wear it see if that makes a difference. The patch made a difference for me – I adapted but had to reduce the dose so I wasn't so tired. Dr said the .2 patch was the highest he'd go. On a few days in the month I also need to add 1-2 clonidine pills to my regiment that they give me because for reasons the Drs have not figured out nothing works well on those few days and I need more clonidine… which doesn't make me sleepy but does give me a dry mouth though. Because there is a pattern they think this somewhat predictable increase in BP is hormone related.
Debbie
Comment by Debbie — June 14, 2009 @ 6:38 pm
Thanks very much, Debbie! I never even thought of cutting the patch in half! (Just goes to show you how exhausted I am–)) I'm on the Catapres .1 patch (or which ever one is the lowest dosage.)
I'm going to try cutting it in half. Do you save the half you're not using and use it the following week? Or do you have to throw it away once you open the package?
Thanks very much!!! Judy
Comment by Judy — June 14, 2009 @ 6:57 pm
Debbie–A quick question—where's the best place to adhere the patch? I really don't want anyone to see if when I'm wearing it…The literature says to put it on the upper outer arm or on the chest. At this time of the year, either of those two locations means no sleeveless shirts or tank tops and no swim suits….
Thanks!! Judy
Comment by Judy — June 14, 2009 @ 7:08 pm
Debbie–One more question about cutting the Catapres in half—doesn't the medicine leak out from the cut side? Thanks:) Judy
Comment by Judy — June 14, 2009 @ 7:18 pm
Judy,
You asked the question I asked… he said no- I of course didn't believe him but it didn't. I have problems with my skin asorbing it though… The one thing you will need to do is monitor carefully your BP. That was the one issue my Dr repeated numerous times- Clonidine must be tapered off or your BP will spike very high… but it works for me ..sigh.
Comment by Debbie — June 14, 2009 @ 8:27 pm
Judy,
I have tried moving the patch around and was told that I needed to do that. I typically don't care in the winter any place I was told where there was no hair. In the summer I put it on my lower back, thigh etc. But I don't absorb it well in some places not sure why. I did use the second half of the cut patch… I had to use the white circular pad to go over it though it didn't adhere as well ( the halves) .
I am on the .2 so you are on the lower patch…just watch for spikes…
Comment by Debbie — June 14, 2009 @ 8:35 pm
Thanks for taking the time to answer all my questions Debbie. I'll let you know what happens…. Judy
Comment by Judy — June 15, 2009 @ 6:20 pm
Tried hyzaar, with litle success. taking tekturna and bp has been lowered . little side effects, tired, thirsty and occasionally fatigue. libido has to be increased but regulating time of ingestion of medicine and seems to be working. usally taken after relations and it seems to work fine. have devEloped a bp chart to monitor the bp. the hct works but it does not bother me as im a late going to bed person. will keep tekturna users posted.
Comment by john — July 1, 2009 @ 1:44 pm