Irbesartan
Pronunciation: (ir-be-SAR-tan).
- Generic name
- Irbesartan
- Brand names
- Irbec, Karvea, Avapro, Aprovasc, Irbium, Irovel
- Drug class
- Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB)
Availability and supply rules vary by country
Trade names by country: United States · Canada
Australia: · Full directory
What Irbesartan is and how it works
Uses, formulations, monitoring, and supply rules can differ by patient, product, and country. Follow the exact local product information and professional advice.
Mechanism of action: how Irbesartan works
Irbesartan selectively blocks the binding of angiotensin II to the AT1 receptor in vascular smooth muscle and the adrenal gland. This inhibition prevents vasoconstriction and aldosterone secretion, resulting in decreased blood pressure and reduced sodium and water retention. (1)
What Irbesartan is used for
Hypertension — FDA-approved, to lower blood pressure and reduce cardiovascular event risk
Hypertension — FDA-approved, to lower blood pressure and reduce cardiovascular event risk (2)
Diabetic nephropathy — FDA-approved specifically in hypertensive type 2 diabetic patients with elevated serum creatinine and proteinuria (>300 mg/day)
Diabetic nephropathy — FDA-approved specifically in hypertensive type 2 diabetic patients with elevated serum creatinine and proteinuria (>300 mg/day) (2)
Before taking Irbesartan
Do not take / not appropriate for
- hypersensitivity to irbesartan, pregnancy (especially second and third trimesters), and severe hepatic impairment. (Contraindication) (2)
Tell your clinician about
(2)How to take Irbesartan
- General Instructions: Take irbesartan exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily. It can be taken with or without food.. Adult Dosing: For hypertension: start with 150 mg once daily, may increase to 300 mg once daily if needed (or a lower 75 mg starting dose if volume- or salt-depleted). For diabetic nephropathy: 300 mg once daily is recommended.. Pediatric Dosing: Not routinely recommended for children under 6 years. For children 6-16 years, dosing is based on weight and clinical judgment.. Administration: Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Take it at the same time each day.. If You Are Considering Stopping: Seek medical advice first; the clinician managing your blood pressure can advise on whether and how to adjust or stop irbesartan, since stopping suddenly may allow your blood pressure to rise again. IMPORTANT: if you become pregnant, contact your doctor right away — irbesartan is generally stopped as soon as pregnancy is confirmed because of fetal risk, and your doctor will guide the transition.. Storage: Store at 25°C (77°F); brief excursions between 15-30°C (59-86°F) are permitted. Keep away from moisture and heat, out of reach of children.
- This page does not provide a dose calculator. Dosing must follow the prescriber, pharmacist, or product label.
Procedures and treatment changes
Tell the treating team before surgery, procedures, or any medicine change. Do not alter treatment without the responsible clinician. (2)
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include severe dizziness, fainting, or rapid heartbeat. Seek emergency medical attention or call your local poison control center immediately. (2)
Side effects
Side effects and their urgency vary; report severe, persistent, or concerning symptoms to a healthcare professional.
Dizziness
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Headache
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Fatigue
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Diarrhea
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Upper respiratory tract infection
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Hyperkalemia
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Angioedema
Incidence: Reported in the clinician-authored database; frequency not established
Serious warnings
BOXED WARNING (FDA) — serious
Symptoms: BOXED WARNING (FDA): FETAL TOXICITY. Drugs that act directly on the renin-angiotensin system, including irbesartan, can cause injury and death to the developing fetus when used in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. When pregnancy is detected, irbesartan is generally discontinued as soon as possible on the treating clinician's advice.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
May cause dizziness or fainting, especially when standing up quickly, particularly at the start of treatment or with volume/salt depletion — serious
Symptoms: May cause dizziness or fainting, especially when standing up quickly, particularly at the start of treatment or with volume/salt depletion. Monitor kidney function and potassium levels regularly. May interact with other blood pressure medications and NSAIDs.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Contraindications — serious
Symptoms: Contraindications: hypersensitivity to irbesartan or any tablet component; coadministration with aliskiren specifically in patients with diabetes. Use with caution in patients with renal artery stenosis, volume depletion, or hyperkalemia. Monitor renal function and electrolytes regularly.
Action: Follow the urgency stated and seek prompt or emergency care when indicated. (2)
Interactions
| Medicine or test | Effect | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Recorded interactions | Irbesartan may interact with other medications that affect blood pressure, potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, NSAIDs, lithium, and certain diabetes medications. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medicines you are taking to avoid potential interactions. | (1) |
| ACE inhibitors or aliskiren (dual RAAS blockade) | Combining irbesartan with an ACE inhibitor or aliskiren increases the risk of low blood pressure, high potassium, and reduced kidney function. Combining irbesartan with aliskiren is specifically avoided in people with diabetes. | (2) |
Pregnancy, breastfeeding, kidney/liver function, age
Pregnancy
BOXED WARNING: irbesartan can cause injury and death to the developing fetus when used in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Anyone who becomes pregnant while taking irbesartan should contact their doctor right away; irbesartan is generally discontinued as soon as pregnancy is confirmed, on the treating clinician's guidance. Anyone planning a pregnancy should discuss alternative treatments with their doctor beforehand. (2)
Breastfeeding
Use of irbesartan while breastfeeding is not recommended. Discuss feeding options and alternative treatments with the prescribing clinician. (2)
Children
Frequency: Not applicable. Weight Based: Not recommended for pediatric use. Max Daily Dose: Not applicable. Max Single Dose: Not applicable. Age Restrictions: Not routinely recommended under age 6; for ages 6-16, dosing is based on weight and clinical judgment by the treating pediatric specialist. (2)
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment is generally needed for mild-to-severe renal impairment or for hepatic insufficiency. The exception is people who are volume- or salt-depleted (for example, from diuretic use, dietary salt restriction, or dialysis), who may need a lower starting dose of 75 mg once daily, individualized by the treating clinician. (2)
Hepatic_impairment
No dosage adjustment is generally needed for mild-to-severe renal impairment or for hepatic insufficiency. The exception is people who are volume- or salt-depleted (for example, from diuretic use, dietary salt restriction, or dialysis), who may need a lower starting dose of 75 mg once daily, individualized by the treating clinician. (2)
Monitoring
(2)Storage
Store at 25°C (77°F); brief excursions between 15-30°C (59-86°F) are permitted. Keep away from moisture and heat, out of reach of children.
Study the drug class: Angiotensin receptor blockers
Professional information
Clinician-facing context only. This section does not replace current product labeling.
General — FDA label (Avapro)
Indication: Hypertension
Dose summary: Initial dose is 150 mg once daily; may increase to 300 mg once daily based on blood pressure response. In volume- or salt-depleted patients, a lower initial dose of 75 mg once daily is recommended.
Renal context: No dosage adjustment is generally needed for mild-to-severe renal impairment; volume-depleted patients may need the lower 75 mg starting dose regardless of renal function. (2)
General — FDA label (Avapro)
Indication: Diabetic nephropathy
Dose summary: 300 mg once daily.
Renal context: No dosage adjustment is generally needed for renal impairment. (2)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take for irbesartan to lower blood pressure?
Blood pressure reduction is usually seen within 1–2 weeks, with the full effect in about 4–6 weeks. Continue taking as prescribed even if you do not notice immediate changes.
Can I take irbesartan if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Irbesartan should not be used during pregnancy, especially after the first trimester, as it can harm the unborn baby. It is not recommended while breastfeeding.
What should I do if I feel dizzy after taking irbesartan?
Dizziness is a common side effect, especially when starting treatment. Stand up slowly from sitting or lying positions. If dizziness persists or worsens, contact your doctor.
Can I stop taking irbesartan if my blood pressure is normal?
Seek medical advice before stopping; the clinician managing your blood pressure can advise on whether and how to adjust or stop irbesartan, since stopping suddenly can cause your blood pressure to rise again and increase your risk of complications.
Are there foods or drinks I should avoid while taking irbesartan?
Avoid potassium-rich foods or salt substitutes containing potassium unless advised by your doctor. Limit alcohol intake.
Is irbesartan safe for people with kidney problems?
Irbesartan can be beneficial for people with diabetic kidney disease, and kidney function should be monitored regularly. According to the FDA label, no routine dose adjustment is generally needed for mild-to-severe kidney impairment itself, though a lower starting dose may be used if you are volume- or salt-depleted, as directed by your doctor.
What happens if I take too much irbesartan?
Overdose may cause severe low blood pressure, dizziness, or fainting. Seek emergency medical help immediately.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Irbesartan?
It is generally advisable to limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking Irbesartan. Alcohol can exacerbate the blood pressure-lowering effects of ARBs, potentially leading to increased dizziness, lightheadedness, and a higher risk of fainting. Discuss your alcohol intake with your healthcare provider to understand the specific risks and recommendations for your situation.
Is Irbesartan safe during pregnancy?
Irbesartan is generally not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, due to potential risks to the developing fetus. It is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider immediately if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding while taking Irbesartan. They can discuss alternative treatments and ensure the safest approach for both you and your baby.
What is the mechanism of action of Irbesartan?
Irbesartan selectively blocks the binding of angiotensin II to the AT1 receptor in vascular smooth muscle and the adrenal gland. This inhibition prevents vasoconstriction and aldosterone secretion, resulting in decreased blood pressure and reduced sodium and water retention. (1)
What is the generic name of Irbesartan?
The generic name is Irbesartan. It is sold under brand names including Irbec, Karvea, Avapro, Aprovasc, Irbium, Irovel.
What class of drug is Irbesartan?
Irbesartan is classed as: Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB).
References
- Irbesartan — MedGuideGlobal Clinician RecordMedGuideGlobal clinician-authored medicine record (internal database) · null · accessed 2026-08-06 · source 1
- AVAPRO (irbesartan) tablets — prescribing informationU.S. Food and Drug Administration (DailyMed) · United States · accessed 2026-08-06 · source 2
- IRBESARTAN TABLET [MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS LIMITED] — US prescribing information (DailyMed SPL)U.S. National Library of Medicine (DailyMed) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 3
- Irbesartan — patient drug information (MedlinePlus)U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 4
- Irbesartan — FDA approval record (Drugs@FDA ANDA203071)U.S. Food and Drug Administration · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 5
- Irbesartan — RxNorm normalized drug concept (RXCUI 83818)U.S. National Library of Medicine (RxNorm) · US · accessed 2026-08-14 · source 6
Brand names by country
Single-ingredient Irbesartan names are shown separately by country. Product availability, strengths, and supply rules can change; combination products are not included here.
Priority countries
United States
- Avapro150 mg, 300 mg · sanofi-aventis u.s. llc
Canada
- AVAPRO