Atacand 8 mg is mainly used to treat hypertension or high blood pressure in adults and children 1 to 17. It also effectively treats certain types of heart failure in adults, reducing death and hospitalization for heart damage and heart failure. Atacand contains Candesartan, an angiotensin II receptor antagonist that prevents the blood vessels from narrowing, improving blood flow and lowering blood pressure. Medicines that lower your blood pressure reduce your chance of heart attack or stroke. It is sometimes prescribed in combination with other blood pressure medicines.  

It is important to keep taking Atacand daily. You can take it orally before or after consuming food. Swallow the tablet with a glass full of water. For hypertension, the recommended dose is 8 mg once a day. You may be advised to increase the dose to 16 mg to 32 mg daily, depending on the blood pressure response. A lower starting dose may be recommended for people with liver problems, kidney problems, or recently lost body fluids through vomiting, diarrhea, or diuretics. 

Do not take Atacand 8 mg if you are allergic to any of the ingredients of this medicine or are diabetic and taking Aliskiren. Before you take this medicine, tell your doctor if you have heart problems, liver impairment, kidney problems, are currently having vomiting or diarrhea, have any other medical conditions, or are scheduled for surgery or anesthesia.

Your doctor should also know all your medicines, including vitamins and herbal supplements. Atacand and other medications may affect each other, causing serious adverse effects. Do not take antidepressants (lithium carbonate, lithium citrate), other medicines for high blood pressure, especially water pills, potassium supplements, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Candesartan can cause you to feel dizzy or tired. Do not drive, operate machinery, or perform other dangerous tasks until you know how Candesartan affects you.

Atacand 8 mg may cause serious side effects, including injury or death to your unborn baby. It may also cause low blood pressure (hypotension) in some people. The chances of low blood pressure are higher in those who take water pills, get dialysis treatment, are on a low-salt diet, are dehydrated, or have heart problems.    

Low blood pressure can also occur if you have major surgery or require anesthesia. If you have increased potassium in the blood and symptoms of an allergic reaction (rash, hives, itching, swelling of your face, lips, throat, or tongue), immediately inform your healthcare provider.

Atacand's most common side effects are dizziness, back pain, sore throat, cold or flu symptoms, congestion, and stuffiness.