TANATRIL

Tanatril tablets 5mg Why do I need this medicine? Imidapril helps to keep your blood pressure under control. Imidapril relaxes your blood vessels and this helps to lower your blood pressure. It may be used on its own or together with other medicines.

How do I take this medicine? Take Imidapril exactly as directed by your doctor. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.

Imidapril must be taken regularly for it to work well. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by your doctor. Your condition may worsen if the medicine is stopped suddenly.

Take Imidapril on an empty stomach 15 minutes before meals. Try to take it at the same time each day. What should I do if I have forgotten to take this medicine? Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

Remember to take your medicine regularly. Imidapril must be taken exactly as directed for it to be effective. If you often forget to take your medicine, inform your doctor and pharmacist. Can I take this with other medicines? Inform your doctor if you are taking any of these medicines:

- a mood medicine called lithium
- other medicines for blood pressure or heart conditions
- a type of painkiller known as NSAIDs, for example, diclofenac, mefenamic acid, ibuprofen
- diabetes medicine
- potassium supplements (either as a medicine or as a salt substitute)

Always inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription. How should I store this medicine? Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.

When should I not use this medicine? Alert your doctor if you are pregnant or if you become pregnant while being treated with Imidapril.

Do not take Imidapril if you are pregnant. Do not breastfeed while you are being treated with Imidapril. What should I take note of while taking this medicine? Inform your doctor if you have a history of kidney, liver or heart problems, diabetes, or any other illnesses.

If you are going for an operation, including minor surgery and dental work, inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking Imidapril.

Why is it important to keep my appointments with the doctor?

Your blood pressure may rise to unsafe levels without you noticing it. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly. He may also need to do routine blood tests when you are taking Imidapril.

What lifestyle changes can I make to improve my blood pressure?

Regular exercise will help lower your blood pressure and improve your overall health. Speak to your doctor about what type of exercise would be suitable for you. If you have not exercised for a long time, start with light exercises such as slow walks. Regular exercise will also help you to maintain a healthy weight and this is important in helping you to control your blood pressure.

If you smoke, you should try to quit. Smoking is harmful to your blood pressure, heart and overall health. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist about ways to kick your smoking habit.

Try to keep stress levels under control as stress will cause your blood pressure to go up. Are there any restrictions on the type of food I can take? Cut down on your salt intake -- this may help lower your blood pressure and improve your overall health. Speak to your doctor or dietitian about ways to cut down on your salt intake.

Avoid drinking too much alcohol. Speak to your doctor if you have a drinking problem.

IMIDAPRIL

What side effects could I experience? Imidapril may cause dizziness. If you feel dizzy, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert. You may also feel dizzy when getting up from a sitting or lying down position, especially if you are taking Imidapril for the very first time. This is common and should improve gradually as you get used to the medicine. To minimise this problem, stand up slowly. If you are taking Imidapril for the very first time, take the first dose of Imidapril at bedtime to minimise dizziness.

Imidapril may also cause dry cough, headache, stomach upset, tiredness and rashes.

Alert your doctor if any of these side effects are severe or refuse to go away.

Some side effects may be serious, although they are not common. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience:

- swelling of hands, legs, face, or mouth
- difficulty in breathing
- chest pain
- fast or irregular heartbeat