Telmisartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) indicated for the treatment of hypertension, to lower blood pressure. Telmisartan can be used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents. Although it has very good tolerance and safety profile overall, there are a few things we do need to be aware of in terms of side effects with longer term use. One of the main concerns, generally speaking is how it can affect kidney function. Prolonged use of telmisartan may reduce renal function, especially in patients with pre-existing renal impairment. While only a minority of long-term users develop any kidney issue — again, per one study the percentage was less than 3%— it highlights that these patients should have renal parameters monitored on occasion.
The development of hyperkalemia, a rise in the level of potassium seen with long-term use is another potential side effect. While mild cases are seen in approximately 2% of patients, persistent hyperkalemia entails important risks with regard to cardiac issues like arrhythmias. Long-term potassium loading is especially problematic for older patients and those with renal impairment, requiring periodic serum chemistry when a patient remains on these medications.
There are even occasional reports of telmisartan-related muscle and joint pain that persists after only very short durations of use in some patients. This entity, also uncommon. may be associated with changes in electrolytes due to drug mechanism of action. It has been observed by long-time users that such pains become more frequent and intense, which may cause loss of movement freedom as well.
Long-term use of telmisartan has also been correlated with gastrointestinal side effects, such as chronic diarrhea and abdominal pain. With only 5% of the users affected by these symptoms, however — they can become chronic and result in dehydration or malnuotrion should be not managed appropriately.
A cardiologist commented, “Telmisartan is one of the best medicines on blood pressure and heart attack prevention if you swallow. But long-term use requires attention to kidney function and electro-richards balanced.] This highlights the need for continued monitoring, especially via routine laboratory exams to detect early indicators of toxicity.
In a few patients, prolonged use of telmisartan may cause too low blood pressure and heart rate that they can feel dizzy or even faint. However, the risk can be decreased by adjusting dosage or combining with other medications under direct medical supervision although it is still a highly sought-after issue for long term therapeutics.
Regardless, because of the administration convenience and improved long-term adverse effects profile, telmisartan still remains a potent drug-related for controlling REMARK. Nevertheless, patients should attend routine check-ups and inform their healthcare team if they experience any new or worsening symptoms.
If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor for some more medical information about telmisartan side effects management that may need to help you in the long term.