Da Mai

Quick links to important sections

Medically reviewed

Rosario Oropesa

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 Da Mai

Quick Facts

Property Description
Active ingredient Candesartan (via Candesartan cilexetil)
Form Tablet
Pharmacological Class Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB)
Common Use Maintaining lowered blood pressure
Origin Synthetic, Nonpeptide Tetrazole Derivative

What Type of Medicine is Da Mai? (Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker Identity)

Da Mai is a synthetic prescription medicine (Rx) and a recognized Antihypertensive Agent, belonging to the class of drugs known as Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs). As an ARB, its therapeutic purpose is centered on medically managing and controlling high blood pressure, typically used as a long-term treatment scenario for adults who require sustained pressure regulation.

The core identity of Da Mai is defined by its ability to modulate the body's pressure regulation pathways. This class of medication provides effective and sustained antagonism of the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS). Da Mai, a commercial brand, is presented as an immediate-release tablet designed for oral use, representing a standard and convenient dosage form for daily blood pressure control.

Composition and Origin: Candesartan, the Prodrug

The core active substance is Candesartan, which is delivered in the form of the precursor compound, Candesartan cilexetil. This specific chemical structure is a prodrug—a distinguishing feature—that is inactive when consumed but undergoes rapid and complete bioactivation by ester hydrolysis during absorption to become the functional Candesartan molecule.

Da Mai is a single-ingredient product, containing only Candesartan cilexetil as the active component alongside necessary pharmaceutical excipients. The use of the prodrug form ensures the systemic circulation receives adequate levels of the active drug necessary to support the therapeutic effects throughout the dosing interval.

What is the General Purpose of Da Mai?

The general purpose of Da Mai is to reduce mechanical stress on the heart and arterial walls by achieving the fundamental effect of lowering blood pressure. By blocking the effects of Angiotensin II, the medicine promotes vasodilation (vessel widening) and mitigates signals that encourage the retention of salt and water. This targeted action serves to maintain blood pressure within a target range and reduce overall cardiovascular strain.

Regulatory References

  1. Physiology, Renin Angiotensin System

What side effects are possible with Da Mai?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The official safety profile of Candesartan cilexetil (Da Mai) is structured by government regulatory agencies according to System-Organ Classes (SOCs) and mandated frequency categories. This structure formally defines the nature and frequency of documented adverse effects.

Classification of Adverse Reactions

Adverse reactions are officially classified by their observed frequency, with Common effects (ge 1 in 100 patients) often involving the nervous and respiratory systems. These may include dizziness, headache, and upper respiratory tract infection.

Frequency Category System-Organ Class (SOC) Example Adverse Reactions
Common Nervous System Disorders Dizziness, headache
Very Rare (< 1/10,000) Immune System Disorders Angioedema (hypersensitivity)
Very Rare Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders Hyperkalaemia (elevated potassium)
Very Rare Renal and Urinary Disorders Renal impairment, potential renal failure

Serious Safety Constraints

Official labeling documents critical restrictions and serious adverse reactions. The medicine is generally contraindicated during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy due to the risk of fetal injury or death. Use is also restricted in patients with severe hepatic impairment or cholestasis. The risk of symptomatic hypotension is noted, particularly in volume-depleted patients, often occurring at the start of treatment. Monitoring of renal function and serum potassium levels is a required safety element, especially in susceptible patient populations.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

The following information summarizes the officially documented overdose profile for Da Mai (Candesartan cilexetil) based on government regulatory sources.


Overdose Scope

Domain Official Regulatory Statement
Documented Overdose Presentations The most likely manifestation of overdosage is hypotension (low blood pressure). Associated signs may include dizziness, tachycardia (fast heart rate), or potentially fainting [MedlinePlus].
Physiological Systems Affected Primarily the Cardiovascular system, evidenced by blood pressure and heart rate changes.
Dose-related or Exposure-related Factors The possibility of a multiple-drug overdose should be considered during management.
Population-specific Overdose Notes The active substance, Candesartan, cannot be removed from the circulation by hemodialysis.
Emergency-response statements If symptomatic hypotension occurs, supportive treatment should be instituted. Management may involve consulting a Poison Control Center for current information.
When immediate medical help is required Individuals should seek emergency medical attention for a suspected overdose or if severe symptoms are observed.

Overdose Classifications (High-Level)

Domain Official Regulatory Statement
Severity Classification The primary severe risk is symptomatic hypotension.
Regulatory Basis Information is derived from authoritative government regulatory sources, such as the FDA Prescribing Information and the NIH MedlinePlus.
Overdose-context constraints No specific antidote is documented as being known or available to counteract the effects of overdosage.

Resulting Overdose Structure

Official overdose statements:

  • Hypotension is the most likely manifestation of overdosage, which may be accompanied by dizziness, fainting, or changes in heart rate.
  • In the event of overdose, symptomatic and supportive treatment must be instituted to address clinical manifestations.
  • No specific antidote is known for Candesartan overdosage.
  • The active ingredient cannot be removed by hemodialysis.

Connection to the overall overdose profile: The regulatory profile defines overdose primarily through its most likely consequence, which is the severe exaggeration of the drug's intended action, leading to hypotension. This high-risk manifestation necessitates seeking emergency medical attention and the immediate institution of supportive treatment. The profile explicitly confirms the non-existence of a specific antidote and the inability to remove the drug via hemodialysis, thereby restricting management options to procedural support.

Therapeutic Uses of Da Mai

What Da Mai Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

The therapeutic uses of Da Mai are relevant in contexts involving heightened systemic burden and chronic cardiovascular disease management. The medication is commonly used across three therapeutic domains where supportive symptom management is appropriate. It is primarily applied in managing the chronic condition of hypertension across adult and pediatric patient groups. This therapeutic support generally assists with managing risks associated with heightened physiological activity, such as stroke and heart attack. It plays a role in supporting protection for vital organs against damage linked to chronic high pressure.

Support for Chronic Heart and High-Risk Conditions

The medication is commonly applied for the treatment of chronic symptomatic heart failure in adults, helping to manage symptom clusters that interfere with daily comfort, such as symptoms related to systemic imbalance and physical discomfort. This support contributes to improved comfort during periods of heightened symptoms and generally assists with maintaining functional stability during chronic heart failure. Da Mai may also be part of symptomatic management in specific high-risk scenarios, such as in patients with Type 2 diabetes and hypertension, where it may assist with managing organ-specific functional stress linked to chronic conditions. The conditions the medication is used to manage include chronic hypertension, symptomatic heart failure, and in specific cases, providing prophylactic support against migraine headaches.


Quick Fact: Relief for Symptomatic Burden

Domain Condition Category Therapeutic Benefit
Cardiovascular Chronic Heart Failure Helps maintain stability and eases symptom load.
Vasculature Hypertension (High BP) Contributes to easing the overall symptom load linked to pressure.
Specialized Recurrent Migraine May assist with reducing the frequency of attacks.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

Eligibility Map: Who Can and Cannot Use Da Mai — Official Regulatory Information

The eligibility profile for Da Mai (Candesartan cilexetil) is strictly defined by regulatory authorities, outlining populations who can use the medicine and those who are prohibited or restricted.

Absolute Contraindications

Da Mai is contraindicated and must not be used in several specific populations, including:

  • Patients with Hypersensitivity to candesartan cilexetil or any component of the formulation.
  • Women in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy; the medication must be discontinued as soon as pregnancy is detected.
  • Patients with severe hepatic impairment or cholestasis.
  • Children aged below 1 year for the treatment of hypertension.
  • Patients with Diabetes Mellitus or a GFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m² who are also taking aliskiren.

Age-Specific and Conditional Use

  • The medication is approved for hypertension treatment in adults and in children 1 to < 17 years of age.
  • Use is not recommended in patients with primary hyperaldosteronism as they are generally unresponsive to this class of medication.
  • A lower initial dose should be considered for patients with moderate hepatic impairment or those who are intravascularly volume depleted. Safety and efficacy have not been established for children with heart failure or those with a severe reduction in kidney function.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Da Mai, which contains candesartan cilexetil, has documented interaction patterns primarily involving the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS), electrolyte balance, and renal function, as stated in regulatory labels.

Official Interaction Statements

Classification Type Interacting Agent Official Interaction Statement
Contraindicated Medicines containing aliskiren Contraindicated in patients with diabetes mellitus or moderate to severe renal impairment (GFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m²) due to the risk of hyperkalemia, hypotension, and renal dysfunction.
Pharmacodynamic Potassium-sparing diuretics and Potassium supplements Co-administration may result in increased serum potassium concentrations (hyperkalemia).
Pharmacodynamic NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) Concurrent use may cause a reduction in antihypertensive effect and increases the risk of worsening renal function, particularly noted in elderly or volume-depleted individuals.
Exposure-Altering Lithium Co-administration causes an increase in serum lithium concentrations and toxicity through reduced renal clearance of lithium.
Pharmacodynamic Alcohol Consumption may increase the risk of feeling dizzy or faint.

The regulatory documentation classifies several common agents, including ACE inhibitors, as having an additive hypotensive effect and an increased risk of hyperkalemia when used concurrently. No mandatory dose separation windows are officially documented for any interacting medicinal products, and Da Mai may be taken with or without food.

Mechanism of Action

Da Mai (Triticum aestivum), primarily studied in its sprout form (wheatgrass), exhibits modulation through multiple molecular and intracellular pathways. Its primary mechanism involves the systemic scavenging of reactive oxygen species (ROS) via high concentrations of intrinsic antioxidant molecules, including flavonoids, carotenoids, and the enzyme superoxide dismutase. These compounds directly quench free radicals, mitigating cellular oxidative stress. The extract also appears to influence enzymatic detoxification systems. Specifically, Triticum aestivum extract (TAE) has demonstrated competitive inhibition of Cytochrome P4502E1 (CYP2E1), a key enzyme involved in metabolic bioactivation, thereby reducing the production of reactive intermediate metabolites. Intracellularly, TAE's constituents engage the Nrf2 (Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) pathway, leading to the upregulation of downstream antioxidant and phase II detoxifying enzymes. At a system level, these combined actions result in a generalized reduction of oxidative load and modulation of metabolic processing pathways within hepatocyte and gastrointestinal tissues.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Da Mai (Candesartan Cilexetil Administration Principles)

Da Mai, which contains candesartan cilexetil, is approved solely for oral administration and is available as a tablet in strengths of 4 mg, 8 mg, 16 mg, and 32 mg. The medicine is generally taken once daily, although the total dose for hypertension may be given in two divided doses. Standard administration guidelines indicate that Da Mai can be consumed with or without food, as meals do not significantly alter the absorption of the active drug.


Standard Dosing and Adjustment Patterns

Dosing is highly specific to the condition and the patient's tolerance, emphasizing an individualized approach over a fixed regimen.

Indication Initial Daily Dose Target/Maximum Daily Dose
Adult Hypertension 16 mg 32 mg
Adult Heart Failure 4 mg 32 mg

For heart failure, the dose is gradually increased by doubling it at intervals of at least two weeks until the maximum dose of 32 mg is reached. In contrast, the full effect for hypertension is typically seen within four weeks of initiating therapy.


Population-Specific Usage

Certain patient groups require initial dosing adjustments. A lower starting dose of 4 mg may be necessary for patients with depleted fluid volume, severe renal impairment, or mild-to-moderate hepatic impairment. No initial dose change is usually required for older adults (65 years and over). Pediatric patients (aged 1 to < 17 years) are administered weight-based dosing for hypertension, with a specially prepared oral suspension being the recommended form for the youngest group.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies for Da Mai (Candesartan)

Evidence for Use in Managing High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

Research exploring the use of Da Mai for high blood pressure primarily involves Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) and studies comparing it to other medications or a placebo. These trials typically focus on measuring specific outcomes, such as changes in systolic and diastolic blood pressure (BP), as well as maintaining BP control over a full 24-hour cycle. Studies reported measurements describing changes in BP levels in the observed populations, and this pattern was described in both adults with uncomplicated hypertension and in those with moderate-to-severe high blood pressure. The research also examined long-term outcomes related to cardiovascular events and monitored outcomes linked to physiological strain or stress on the heart and blood vessels.

Evidence for Use in Managing Chronic Heart Failure

The evidence supporting the use of Da Mai in chronic heart failure (CHF) largely stems from a large-scale research program of Placebo-Controlled Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs). These studies were applied in patient populations with symptomatic CHF and reduced heart function. The studies focused on all-cause mortality and cardiovascular outcomes, and the rate of hospital admission for worsening heart failure. Patterns in the measured outcomes were observed when Da Mai was used alongside other standard heart failure medications. Evidence was most frequently described for patients with reduced heart function; however, data for patients with preserved heart function were mixed, with research primarily describing patterns related to hospitalization rates rather than mortality.

What Is Still Uncertain or Under Research

Despite the large volume of research, certainty remains low in some areas. Comparative evidence against every newer class of antihypertensive drug currently available is limited in the existing data. The long-term impact on specific major cardiovascular outcomes is sometimes based on secondary analyses of studies powered for other endpoints, meaning the research provides context but not individual predictions. Data for certain groups remain insufficient, particularly for certain subgroups of patients with heart failure (those with preserved ejection fraction) and for the long-term duration of its effects in conditions like migraine.

Key Studies & References

  1. Candesartan in children with hypertension (CINCH) program (Study D2451C00002-328) for subjects 1 to <6 years of age

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Da Mai (FAQ)

Q: What happens if I forget to take a dose of Da Mai?

According to regulatory documents, a specific action for a single forgotten dose is not typically detailed. Maintaining the established routine is part of the approved use. Official documents state that taking a double dose to make up for a forgotten one is not advised.

Q: Can Da Mai make you feel tired or sleepy?

Official product information indicates that tiredness and dizziness are among the effects that have been observed in some patients using this medicine. These effects are classified within the nervous system disorders reported during clinical experience.

Q: Is it true that Da Mai can cause stomach upset?

According to safety information, the medicine can cause some gastrointestinal effects. Adverse reactions that have been described include abdominal pain and nausea, reported in 1 to 10 out of 100 patients in clinical trials. Less frequently, vomiting has also been described in clinical experience.

Q: Does Da Mai affect birth control pills?

Clinical studies have investigated potential interactions between this medicine and typical oral contraceptive agents. Research indicates that using this medicine does not appear to influence the way the body handles the oral contraceptive agent.

Q: What research is available on the long-term use of Da Mai?

Studies have examined the long-term use of this medicine in the management of high blood pressure for periods up to one year. Official reports indicate that the blood pressure-lowering effects were sustained throughout the study period without apparent loss of clinical effect.

Q: Can Da Mai be crushed or chewed if someone has trouble swallowing pills?

The medicine is manufactured as an oral tablet for adult use, and in a specially prepared oral suspension for certain pediatric patients. Official product documents do not typically contain instructions regarding the crushing or chewing of the standard adult tablet form.

Q: Can taking Da Mai affect my ability to drive?

Official safety information notes that this medicine may cause effects such as dizziness and tiredness. Official information states that activities requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, should be approached with caution.

Q: What should I do if I notice a change in my mood while taking Da Mai?

Adverse reactions described in official documents include mood effects such as depression and restlessness. These effects have been documented in post-marketing reports, often with an unknown or very rare frequency.

Q: Is it normal to feel a metallic taste after starting Da Mai?

While specific taste changes are not always listed with a frequency in official labeling, research has examined the impact of this class of medicine on taste. Studies suggest that there may be a subclinical reduction in taste sensitivity associated with the medicine.

Q: Are there any known interactions with herbal supplements and Da Mai?

Official product information describes that there is limited formal data regarding the effects of herbal remedies and supplements on this medicine. This is because these products are not tested with prescription medicines in the same way during the approval process.

Q: What is the general success rate mentioned in Da Mai studies?

Studies of the medicine's use for high blood pressure measured specific changes in blood pressure. Official reports indicate observed changes in blood pressure levels, reporting that daily doses were associated with a decrease in systolic pressure by approximately 8 mm Hg to 12 mm Hg and diastolic pressure by approximately 4 mm Hg to 8 mm Hg within four weeks in the observed populations.

Q: Can Da Mai cause skin rashes?

Official safety information includes skin rash and hives among the documented adverse reactions. These effects have been reported, though they may occur infrequently or with an incidence that is not known.

Q: Is it possible for Da Mai to stop working over time?

Research involving the long-term administration of this medicine for high blood pressure has been established. The studies described that the therapeutic effect was maintained without apparent loss of effectiveness for the duration of the research.

Q: What happens when you stop taking Da Mai?

Official documents describe that when the medicine is stopped, blood pressure is noted to gradually return to pretreatment levels. Regulatory data also indicates that a rapid, sharp increase in blood pressure (rebound hypertension) has not been reported following abrupt withdrawal.

Q: Is there a generic version of Da Mai available?

The active ingredient in Da Mai is candesartan cilexetil. According to regulatory filing information, this active ingredient is available from several manufacturers and packagers, which includes generic versions.

Q: How does the effect of Da Mai compare to similar drugs described in research?

Clinical studies have compared the blood pressure-lowering effect of this medicine against other agents. Official research describes that the hypotensive effect is comparable to that of usual dosages of certain other medicines, such as amlodipine or enalapril.

Q: Can Da Mai cause hair loss?

Hair loss and thinning of the hair have been reported as adverse reactions in post-marketing surveillance. This effect is documented in official safety materials, though the frequency of its occurrence is typically listed as unknown.

Q: What does 'contraindication' mean in relation to Da Mai?

A contraindication is a technical term used in regulatory documents to describe a condition or situation in which the medicine must not be used. This is because official documentation indicates that the risk of serious adverse outcomes outweighs any potential benefit in that specific circumstance.

Q: Is it true that official sources mention a risk of vision changes with Da Mai?

Official documents describe that some changes in vision, such as transient blurred vision or acute angle-closure glaucoma, have been reported in post-marketing experience. These are typically listed as adverse events with an unknown or very rare frequency.

Q: What is the typical time frame for side effects to appear after starting Da Mai?

Research has examined the time frame in which adverse events appear after beginning treatment. Studies show that the majority of adverse events occurred during the first three months of treatment, and the incidence was described as generally decreasing with continued use.

How should Da Mai be stored and disposed of?

Prescription products, including Da Mai, must be stored strictly according to the labeled storage conditions to ensure their stability, strength, and quality until the expiration date. When specific storage directions are not provided, the product should be kept at controlled room temperature in an environment protected from extreme light and moisture. Storage facilities must be secured and maintained to prevent contamination or theft.

Disposal of unused or expired medicines must be done safely to prevent accidental ingestion by children or pets. Official guidance recommends utilizing drug take-back programs or mail-back envelopes where available. If no take-back option exists, most medicines (not on a flush list) can be disposed of in the household trash after mixing them with an undesirable substance like coffee grounds or dirt, then placing the mixture in a sealed bag or container. Hazardous pharmaceutical waste from clinical settings must follow specific environmental protection regulations for disposal.

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

Available in countries:

Equivalent of Da Mai found in:

A-Z Index: