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What Causes Fluctuations In BP Readings While On Generic Atacand?

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Posted on Wed, 24 Jun 2015
Question: i am concerned for my fathers partner- she is taking a generic equivalent to atacand for blood pressure and she is having major swings with her blood pressure readings ranging from 142/79 through to 178/103. We are concerned as she is having major mood swings and is not feeling well. Now she has to wait for 2 weeks until she gets and answer from the doctor.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Ilir Sharka (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
I would recommend as follows:

Detailed Answer:

Hello!

Thank you for asking on HCM!

Regarding your concern, I would explain that probably the generic Atacand is not as effective as the brand one (facing the fact BP swings have started on switching the drug).

Regarding mood swings, a differential diagnosis should be performed to investigate if this is related to uncontrolled BP values, or represents an entirely separated pathological condition. Atacand is generally well tolerated, it may be associated rarely with headache, dizziness, light-headed feeling, but not major mood swings. It may very rarely be associated with breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, leading to muscle pain, weakness, fever, dark colored urine and kidney failure.

Facing these new complains, I would strongly recommend to call her prescribing doctor (if it is possible) and explain this new clinical scenario, as a decision should be made for the ongoing antihypertensive therapy. Also, a routine blood tests check up would be necessary.

Meanwhile, you should continue to closely monitor her BP values, as well as any possible unpleasant symptoms and signs.

A new switch to the original Atacand, or to an alternative drug may be necessary. If mood disorders do not resolve after that, a visit to her psychiatrist would be advisable.

Hope to have been helpful!

Feel free to ask me whenever you need! Greetings! Dr. Iliri
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Ilir Sharka (18 hours later)
Dr Illir
With thanks I am very concerned for XXXXXXX she is a wonderful person who is always patient and kind but her presentation has changed dramatically since commencing the generic drug. Thank you for your advice I will make sure that she goes back to the doctor this week, armed with the ability to ask the right questions particularly the blood tests.
Thank you we have been writing information in a diary about the differences in her presentations. However she wont allow anyone to support her at the doctor visits, so I am concerned about the information the doctor is receiving, hence I decided to get involved with your service.
Once again thank you for giving us direction.
XXXX
doctor
Answered by Dr. Ilir Sharka (6 hours later)
Brief Answer:
You are welcome!

Detailed Answer:

Hello again XXXX!

It is very important that you explain her doctor all the recent concerns, so you have to find the way she gets the best review of her clinical situation.

Best regards! Dr. Iliri
Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Ilir Sharka

Cardiologist

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 9536 Questions

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What Causes Fluctuations In BP Readings While On Generic Atacand?

Brief Answer: I would recommend as follows: Detailed Answer: Hello! Thank you for asking on HCM! Regarding your concern, I would explain that probably the generic Atacand is not as effective as the brand one (facing the fact BP swings have started on switching the drug). Regarding mood swings, a differential diagnosis should be performed to investigate if this is related to uncontrolled BP values, or represents an entirely separated pathological condition. Atacand is generally well tolerated, it may be associated rarely with headache, dizziness, light-headed feeling, but not major mood swings. It may very rarely be associated with breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, leading to muscle pain, weakness, fever, dark colored urine and kidney failure. Facing these new complains, I would strongly recommend to call her prescribing doctor (if it is possible) and explain this new clinical scenario, as a decision should be made for the ongoing antihypertensive therapy. Also, a routine blood tests check up would be necessary. Meanwhile, you should continue to closely monitor her BP values, as well as any possible unpleasant symptoms and signs. A new switch to the original Atacand, or to an alternative drug may be necessary. If mood disorders do not resolve after that, a visit to her psychiatrist would be advisable. Hope to have been helpful! Feel free to ask me whenever you need! Greetings! Dr. Iliri