Апровель

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Апровель

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Medically reviewed

Laura Arias

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Апровель

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Irbesartan
Form Tablets (single-ingredient)
Pharmacological class Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB) / Sartan
Common use Management of Hypertension
Origin Synthetic (non-peptide compound)

What Type of Medicine is Апровель (Irbesartan)?

Апровель is a prescription-only medicine whose active component is Irbesartan, a synthetic compound that is clinically recognized for its targeted impact on the cardiovascular system. Irbesartan belongs to the class of Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs), or Sartans, a pharmacological category distinguished by its highly specific molecular action. The primary identity of the preparation is rooted in its function as an Antihypertensive agent, which is supported by comprehensive pharmacological studies. The formulation is primarily intended for Adult patients requiring consistent cardiovascular support.

Composition and General Therapeutic Purpose

The core purpose of Irbesartan is to assist in the management of hypertension by facilitating blood pressure reduction. The medicine is a single-ingredient product, presented as Tablets for Oral administration. It achieves its effect by intervening in the body’s Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS). This is accomplished through the targeted antagonism of AT1 receptors, a recognized pharmacological mechanism. This action promotes vasodilation (vessel widening), thereby reducing overall arterial resistance. This focused systemic action is the foundation of its therapeutic function in supporting systemic circulation.

Regulatory References

  1. Irbesartan: MedlinePlus Drug Information

What side effects are possible with Апровель?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of irbesartan, the active substance in Апровель, is well-documented in regulatory sources, highlighting risks primarily associated with its effect on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS).

Serious and Clinically Significant Adverse Reactions

  • Fetal Toxicity: Use during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy is contraindicated due to documented risks of injury and death to the developing fetus, including skull hypoplasia and renal failure. The drug should be discontinued as soon as possible if pregnancy is detected.
  • Angioedema: Rare cases of angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and/or throat) have been reported, including intestinal angioedema, which presents with abdominal pain. This is a serious condition that requires immediate attention.
  • Hypotension and Renal Function: Symptomatic low blood pressure may occur, especially in patients who are volume- or salt-depleted. The drug may also cause or worsen impaired renal function, including acute renal failure, particularly in susceptible patients (e.g., those with severe heart failure or renal artery stenosis).

Common and Very Common Adverse Reactions

Side effects reported more frequently than placebo in clinical trials include:

  • Very Common (in specific populations): Hyperkalaemia (elevated potassium in the blood), especially in hypertensive patients with Type 2 diabetes and renal disease.
  • Common: Dizziness, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and musculoskeletal pain. Orthostatic symptoms (dizziness when standing up) were also commonly reported in patients with diabetic kidney disease.

Safety Restrictions and Monitoring

  • Contraindications: The medicine is contraindicated in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, and in patients with a history of hypersensitivity. Concomitant use with aliskiren-containing products is specifically contraindicated in patients with diabetes or moderate-to-severe renal impairment.
  • Monitoring: Periodic checks of serum potassium and renal function (creatinine) are recommended, especially for patients with pre-existing kidney issues, heart failure, or when using other medications that can affect potassium levels (e.g., potassium-sparing diuretics, NSAIDs). The dual blockade of the RAAS (e.g., irbesartan with an ACE inhibitor or aliskiren) is generally not recommended due to increased risks of hyperkalaemia and decreased renal function.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

The official regulatory profile for Апровель (Irbesartan) overdose is centered on the risk of severe cardiovascular effects and the mandatory requirement to seek emergency medical care.

Feature Documented Regulatory Information
Clinical Manifestations The most likely signs of overdosage are severe hypotension (excessive drop in blood pressure), which may be accompanied by tachycardia (fast heart rate) or, less commonly, bradycardia (slow heart rate).
Required Urgent Action Seek immediate medical attention for any known or suspected overdosage. It is mandated to contact a Poison Control Center immediately.
Urgent Help Required When Medical assistance is required upon recognition of symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, or any signs of a significant drop in blood pressure.

The most significant and likely clinical consequence of an Irbesartan overdose is profound hypotension. Due to this risk, emergency medical intervention is required for symptomatic and supportive management. Official labeling states that no specific antidote is known for this overdose. Treatment, therefore, focuses on supportive measures, such as placing the patient in a supine position and administering an intravenous infusion of normal saline if clinically necessary to manage severe hypotension. Additionally, regulatory information confirms that Irbesartan is not removed from the body by hemodialysis. The official guidance does not specify unique overdose considerations for pediatric or elderly populations.

Therapeutic Uses of Апровель

The therapeutic use of Апровель (Irbesartan) is generally applied across two key domains related to conditions characterized by heightened physiological stress, particularly within the cardiovascular and renal systems.

It is commonly used to help manage the symptom burden associated with hypertension (high blood pressure) and to provide supportive relief for individuals with Type 2 diabetes and associated kidney disease.

Focus on Symptomatic Support

Апровель is relevant in clinical settings marked by temporary physiological imbalance and is used to address symptom clusters that may become intense or disruptive. It provides support that helps ease the overall symptom burden during challenging symptomatic phases.

“A key therapeutic objective involves providing supportive relief when symptoms interfere with routine activities.”

This medication assists with managing symptoms related to systemic imbalance and those linked to organ-specific functional stress. It is commonly used when symptoms intensify and supportive relief is needed, contributing to improved comfort during periods of heightened symptoms.

Quick Fact: Relief for Systemic Imbalance

The medication is applied across domains where short-term symptom management is appropriate and contributes to maintaining a sense of stability when symptoms become more noticeable.

Regulatory References

  1. DailyMed/National Library of Medicine official label

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Map: Who can and cannot use Апровель (Irbesartan) — Official Regulatory Information

Regulatory authorities define strict population-based rules for the use of Апровель (Irbesartan).

Contraindicated Populations (Must Not Use)

Category Status Regulatory Basis
Pregnancy (2nd and 3rd Trimesters) Contraindicated Absolute Prohibition
Hypersensitivity to Irbesartan Contraindicated Absolute Prohibition
Children under 6 years Contraindicated Use Not Established
Dual RAAS Blockade (with aliskiren in Type 2 Diabetes) Contraindicated Absolute Prohibition

Eligibility and Restriction Rules

  • Adults (18+ years) are the standard labeled population, and use is established for adolescents (6–18 years) for hypertension.
  • Use is not recommended in the first trimester of pregnancy, during breastfeeding/lactation, or in patients with Primary Aldosteronism.
  • Eligibility is conditional for patients with volume or salt depletion, as this must be corrected before treatment is started.
  • Caution is indicated for patients with severe heart failure or specific cardiac conditions like severe aortic stenosis, and for patients with severe hepatic impairment (due to lack of data).

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

Official regulatory documents detail specific drug–drug interactions involving Irbesartan, particularly concerning effects on the renin-angiotensin system, electrolyte balance, and kidney function.

Interaction-Related Restrictions

Classification Interacting Agents Official Restriction and Context
Contraindicated Combinations Aliskiren-containing products Prohibited for use in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus or with Moderate to Severe Renal Impairment (GFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m^2).
ACE Inhibitors (e.g., Enalapril) Prohibited for use in patients with Diabetic Nephropathy due to risks of dual blockade.

Clinically Significant Pharmacodynamic Interactions

  • Potassium-Sparing Diuretics and Potassium Supplements: Concomitant use with Irbesartan is associated with an increased risk of hyperkalaemia (elevated serum potassium levels).
  • Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) and COX-2 Inhibitors: Co-administration may result in an attenuation of the antihypertensive effect. The regulatory profile notes an increased risk of worsening renal function, which is particularly relevant for the elderly or volume-depleted patients.
  • Lithium: Concomitant use has been reported to cause reversible increases in serum Lithium concentrations and subsequent toxicity.

Pharmacokinetic and Other Interactions

Irbesartan may inhibit the OATP1B1 transporter, which has been documented to cause an increase in the plasma exposure of co-administered substrates, such as Repaglinide. Regarding food, official labeling states that administration with food does not affect the bioavailability of Irbesartan. Irbesartan is primarily metabolized by CYP2C9, but no clinically significant interactions are generally expected with drugs affecting other major CYP enzymes.

Mechanism of Action

Antagonism of the Angiotensin II Type 1 ( AT1) Receptor

The primary mode of action involves the drug acting as an antagonist on the angiotensin II type 1 ( AT1) receptor. This interaction blocks the binding of the peptide Angiotensin II to the receptor, thereby inhibiting a significant pressor and aldosterone-stimulating signal cascade that is central to the Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS).


Modulation of Vascular Tone

Interrupting Angiotensin II signaling modulates processes governed by this specific vasoconstrictor. The AT1 receptor blockade modifies the contractile state of vascular smooth muscle, resulting in vasodilation and consequentially altering total peripheral resistance within the circulatory system.


Modification of Aldosterone Secretion

Inhibition of AT1 receptors reduces the hormonal drive for aldosterone secretion from the adrenal gland. This reduction in aldosterone stimulation contributes to modified regulation of sodium and water balance by decreasing the hormone's volume-expanding effects.

Dosage and Administration Information

Official Administration Guidelines (Irbesartan)

This information describes the standard instructions for using Irbesartan (Aprovel) as provided in standard prescribing documentation.

Route of Administration and General Use

Aprovel is administered orally as a film-coated tablet. The tablets must be swallowed whole with a sufficient amount of fluid, such as a glass of water. The medicine is taken once daily and may be taken with or without food.

Dosing Parameter Standard Official Instructions
Initial Dose 150 mg once daily
Maintenance Dose 150 mg to 300 mg once daily
Frequency Once daily (OD)

Special Population and Missed Dose Instructions

Certain patient groups require consideration for a lower initial dose:

  • Elderly (over 75 years): An initial dose of 75 mg once daily may be considered.
  • Patients on Hemodialysis or Volume Depleted: A low initial dose of 75 mg once daily may be required.
  • Pediatric Use: Use is generally not recommended in children and adolescents.

If a dose is missed, take the dose as soon as remembered if it is on the same day. If the full day has passed, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule the following day. A double dose must not be taken to make up for a missed dose.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies

Phase III and Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs)

Clinical research has examined the use of this treatment for hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetic nephropathy (kidney disease in patients with type 2 diabetes). Studies have shown that the drug affects the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system by selectively blocking the angiotensin II type 1 ( AT1) receptors.

A large-scale Phase III RCTs evaluating the use of Irbesartan (the active ingredient in Aprovel) in hypertensive patients with type 2 diabetes and kidney disease reported a relative risk reduction in a composite endpoint that included doubling of serum creatinine, onset of end-stage renal disease, or death from all causes.

Population and Safety Sub-analysis

Studies have assessed the drug's effect in diverse populations, including elderly subjects and patients with concurrent conditions. Research has demonstrated an effect on blood pressure control in patients with various degrees of kidney impairment, suggesting a benefit independent of its blood pressure-lowering effect in diabetic nephropathy.

Trials compared Irbesartan to placebo and to other treatments, including calcium channel blockers (like amlodipine). Findings indicated that the drug provided significant reductions in blood pressure and showed effects on outcomes related to kidney function progression.

Note: While clinical data support its use for hypertension and diabetic nephropathy, research is ongoing to explore its potential application in other areas, such as neurological conditions and other stages of chronic kidney disease.

Key Studies & References

  1. NICE Guideline: Chronic kidney disease in adults: assessment and management (Focus on Angiotensin receptor blockers in diabetes)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Апровель (FAQ)

Q: What is Апровель (Irbesartan) used for?

Апровель (Irbesartan) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) primarily used to manage high blood pressure (hypertension). It is also approved for the treatment of kidney disease in people with Type 2 diabetes who have high blood pressure.

Q: How does Апровель work?

Апровель works by blocking the action of a natural substance in the body that causes blood vessels to tighten. This action relaxes blood vessels, which allows blood to flow more smoothly and helps lower blood pressure.

Q: What is the typical age group for taking Апровель?

The prescribing information for Апровель typically involves adult patients with high blood pressure or kidney disease associated with Type 2 diabetes. Use in children is generally limited and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

Q: Can Апровель be taken with food?

Апровель can be taken with or without food. It is often recommended to take the medication at the same time each day, as directed by a healthcare provider.

Q: What are some potential side effects of Апровель?

Like many medications, Апровель may be associated with side effects. Commonly reported effects may include dizziness, fatigue, and symptoms of a cold or flu. It is important to review the full prescribing information and discuss any concerns with a healthcare professional.

How should Апровель be stored and disposed of?

Official Storage and Disposal Guidelines for Aprovel (Irbesartan)

Storage Condition Requirement
Temperature Do not store above 30 C. Keep from freezing.
Protection Store in the original container, tightly closed, away from moisture, excess heat, and direct light. Do not store in a bathroom.
Stability The product has a shelf life of 3 years when stored correctly.

Child Safety: It is required to store Aprovel out of the sight and reach of children. Use safety caps and place the medication in a secure, high location.

Disposal Rules: Any unused or expired medication must be disposed of in accordance with local regulations. General guidance recommends taking medication to an approved drug take-back location or mixing it with an undesirable substance (such as dirt or coffee grounds) in a sealed container before discarding it in the household trash. Do not flush this medication down a toilet.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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