Telma 80+12.5 mg is a combination medicine containing Telmisartan and Hydrochlorothiazide for hypertension (high blood pressure). Telmisartan is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist that prevents the blood vessels from narrowing, improving blood flow and lowering blood pressure.

Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic (water pill) that stops the body from absorbing too much salt, which can lead to fluid retention. High levels of salt in the body can lead to high blood pressure. 

Take medicine strictly according to your doctor’s direction or the instructions given on the medication label. Do not alter the dosage unless he advises you to do so. Also, do not take this medication after the prescribed period is over. If you have any doubts, please call your doctor. It may take up to 4 weeks of regular intake (as directed) for Telmisartan and Hydrochlorothiazide to reign in your blood pressure.

Take this medicine with a full glass of water. While taking Telmisartan/Hydrochlorothiazide formulation, watch out for vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive sweating. These can lead to severe dehydration, further lowering your blood pressure. Low blood pressure can be a dangerous and fatal condition. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience these conditions while taking this medicine.

You may have to take this medicine for many years, even if you look fine. High blood pressure doesn’t have any outward signs. Always store this medicine in a cool and dry place.   

Do not take Telma 80/12.5 mg if you are allergic to Telmisartan or Hydrochlorothiazide or if you are unable to urinate. To make sure that this medicine is safe for you, inform your doctor in advance if you have any of these conditions: heart disease or congestive heart failure, kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis), liver disease, lupus, gout, glaucoma diabetes, asthma, or an allergy to sulfa drugs or penicillin.

Do not take this medicine if you are a pregnant woman. If you become pregnant during the treatment with this medicine, stop taking it and contact your doctor immediately. The combination drug can cause injury or death of an unborn baby if pregnant women take it in the second or third trimester. Use of effective birth control is recommended while taking this medicine. It is unknown whether Telma 80/12.5 mg can pass into breast milk and harm a nursing baby.

Telmisartan and Hydrochlorothiazide may increase your potassium levels. Hence, avoid potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium while taking this medicine unless directed by your doctor. In rare cases, Telmisartan/Hydrochlorothiazide can lead to a condition that results in the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, causing kidney failure. Seek medical attention immediately if you have unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if you also have a fever, unusual fatigue, or dark-colored urine.

Some common side effects of Telma 80/12.5 mg are dizziness, lightheadedness, swelling in ankles or feet, or flushing. If any of these effects persist or deteriorate, get medical attention immediately. A serious side effect is unlikely. However, if you get any serious side effects like fast, irregular or rapid heartbeat, fainting, or any other serious side effect, seek medical attention immediately.

The side effects mentioned above are not the only ones you may experience or witness due to Telmisartan and Hydrochlorothiazide.