Extel 40 mg Tablet (10 Tab)

Extel 40 Tablet Overview:

Extel 40 Tablet is an anti-hypertensive medication that can be used alone or in combination with other medicines to treat mild to moderate essential hypertension (high blood pressure). By relaxing blood vessels, Extel 40 also helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications, such as heart attacks and strokes, in individuals aged 55 or above, or who have history of blood clot-related problems (such as heart disease, stroke, or artery disease), or people with type 2 diabetes who have experienced organ damage (affecting the eyes, heart, or kidneys).

Composition of Extel 40 Tablet:

Each uncoated tablet contains: Telmisartan 40 mg and Excipients q.s.

Uses and Benefits of Extel 40 Tablet:

Here are the primary uses of Extel 40 Tablet include:

• Managing high blood pressure (hypertension).
• Reducing the risk of serious cardiovascular events, such as strokes and heart attacks.
• Treating heart failure and diabetic nephropathy in specific cases.

How Extel 40 Tablet Works:

Extel 40 Tablet contains Telmisartan as its active ingredient. Telmisartan belongs to a class of medicines known as ‘angiotensin II receptor antagonist’ which work by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a hormone that narrows the blood vessels and increases the blood pressure. By blocking angiotensin II, Extel 40 helps to relax and widen the blood vessels, promoting smoother blood flow and making it easier for the heart to pump blood.

Dosage of Extel 40 Tablet:

• Usage Direction

Take Extel 40 Tablet exactly as prescribed by your doctor, and follow the recommended dosage and schedule. Extel 40 Tablet should be swallowed as whole without crushing, chewing, or breaking it, and ideally at the same time each day. Do not stop or alter the dose of Extel 40 Tablet without consulting your doctor, as this may prevent you from achieving the desired outcome. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any administration procedures you do not understand.

• Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Extel 40 Tablet, take it as soon as it is remembered. If it is time for your next dose of Extel 40 Tablet, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Avoid taking two doses to compensate for a missed one.

• Over Dose

If you accidentally take Extel 40 Tablet more than your prescribed dose, seek immediate medical advice, as this may lead to serious side effects.

Contraindications of Extel 40 Tablet:

Do not take Extel 40 Tablet, if you are allergic to Telmisartan or any other ingredients of this medication or who have moderate to severe renal impairment.

Extel 40 should also be avoided in patients with diabetes mellitus (both type 1 or type 2) and are taking aliskiren-containing drugs such as Tekturna, in Amturnide, Tekamlo, or Tekturna HCT).

Precautions & Warnings of Extel 40 Tablet:

Before starting Extel 40 Tablet, inform your doctor if you have a history of heart failure, blockage in the bile duct (which prevents bile from flowing from the liver to the gallbladder and small intestine, often due to gallstones, tumors, or injury), or if you have kidney or liver disease.

Side Effects of Extel 40 Tablet:

Extel 40 Tablet may cause some side effects, most of which do not require medical attention and typically go away as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if these effects persist, consult your doctor. These may include; swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, difficulty in breathing or blistering of the skin or rash. To help manage these, drink plenty of water, and rest if you experience lightheadedness.

Some severe side effects may also occur which need medical attention such as back pain, sinus pain and congestion or diarrhea.

Safety Related Concerns of Extel 40 Tablet:

• Pregnancy

Extel 40 Tablet is generally not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters as it may harm the fetus. It is important to follow your doctor’s guidance regarding medication use during pregnancy to ensure both you and your baby’s health.

Label Warning: When pregnancy is detected, Telmisartan should be discontinued as soon as possible as it can cause injury and even death to the developing fetus, when used during second and third trimester of pregnancy.

• Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding mothers are advised to avoid Extel 40 Tablet as it may pass through breast milk and can cause side effects in breastfed babies. Therefore, it is important to consult your doctor before taking Extel 40 Tablet while breastfeeding.

• Alcohol

It is recommended to avoid alcohol while taking Extel 40 Tablet as it can aggravate the blood pressure-lowering effects, and increase the risk of certain side effects, such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting.

• Food or Interactions with Other Medicines

When taking Extel 40 Tablet, it's important to limit your salt intake because too much sodium can raise your blood pressure. Also, be cautious with salt substitutes that may contain potassium, as Extel 40 can raise potassium levels in the blood, potentially leading to an imbalance between sodium and potassium. This imbalance can have serious effects on your heart and muscle function. Therefore, it’s advised to avoid potassium-rich foods like bananas, oranges, tomatoes, and potatoes.

Consult your doctor if you are taking any herbal products or supplements while taking Extel 40 Tablet. As always, it is a good idea to consult your doctor or healthcare provider about your specific dietary needs while on Extel 40 Tablet.

• Driving

If you experience side effects such as dizziness or blurred vision, you should avoid driving or operating machinery while taking Extel 40 Tablet.

Storage Instructions of Extel 40 Tablet:

Store below 25°C. Protect from light & moisture.

Keep Extel 40 out of reach of children.

Note: Engaging in regular exercise, maintaining a healthy low-salt diet, and consistently monitoring your blood pressure may help improve your condition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Extel 40 Tablet:

1. How does Extel 40 help with high blood pressure?

Extel 40 contains Telmisartan that helps control high blood pressure (hypertension) by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a hormone that causes blood vessels to narrow, leading to an increase in blood pressure. By inhibiting this hormone, Telmisartan helps relax and widen the blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more freely. This ultimately reduces blood pressure and lowers the risk of complications such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney damage.

2. Is Extel 40 Tablet effective for heart failure treatment?

Extel 40 Tablet is primarily used to treat high blood pressure, which, if left untreated, can damage important organs like the brain, heart, blood vessels, and kidneys, leading to problems like stroke and heart failure. Although it is not the main treatment for heart failure, it is often used alongside other treatments to manage the condition, improve heart function, and reduce symptoms.

3. Is Extel 40 safe to take with other blood pressure medications?

You should not take any other antihypertensive medications with Extel 40 Tablet without consulting your doctor. Combining Extel 40 with other blood pressure-lowering drugs may intensify the effect, potentially causing an unsafe drop in blood pressure (hypotension). Your doctor will monitor your condition and adjust your treatment to regulate your blood pressure. Always seek your doctor's advice before adding any other medications.

4. What happens if I miss a dose of Extel 40 Tablet?

Extel 40 Tablet should be taken at the same time every day, preferably in the morning. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. If you miss a dose, just skip it and resume your regular schedule. Avoid taking two doses at the same time to make up for the missed one. If you're unsure or have any concerns, it is best to consult your doctor for guidance on what to do.

5. Can Extel 40 tablet be used for long-term blood pressure control?

Yes, Telmisartan is effective for long-term blood pressure control and helps reduce the risk of complications like heart disease, stroke, and kidney damage. However, it is crucial to follow your doctor's advice, regularly monitor your blood pressure, and maintain a healthy lifestyle (including proper diet and exercise) for optimal results.

6. Extel 40 Tablet vs other blood pressure medications – Which is better?

Extel 40 Tablet and other blood pressure-lowering medications are both used to manage high blood pressure. The most suitable medication will depend on an individual's specific needs, health conditions, and how they respond to treatment. Your doctor will recommend the best option based on these factors.

7. Does Extel 40 Tablet interact with alcohol or other drugs?

Yes, Extel 40 Tablet can interact with alcohol and other medications. Here are some potential interactions:

Alcohol: Can intensify the blood pressure-lowering effect, increasing the risk of dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting.

Other blood pressure medications: Combining with ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, or diuretics may enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect, leading to hypotension.

Potassium supplements: May raise potassium levels, increasing the risk of hyperkalemia.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Medications like ibuprofen may reduce the effectiveness of Extel 40 and raise the risk of kidney issues, especially with long-term use.

Lithium: Increases the risk of lithium toxicity.

References:

1. Full Prescribing Information. Contents. Micardis. Last Revised: May 2011. Accessed on 21.03.2025. Click Here 

2. Product Monograph. Telmisartan Tablets. 40 mg and 80 mg. Last Revised: June 16, 2014. Accessed on 21.03.2025. Click Here

3. Telmisartan. MedlinePlus. Last Revised: July 20, 2024. Accessed on 21.03.2025. Click Here 

4. Highlights Of Prescribing Information. Telmisartan Tablets. Last Revised: August 2015. Accessed on 21.03.2025. Click Here