Candesartan 16 mg: Uses, Side Effects & Dosage Guide

Aug 02, 2025

Introduction

Candesartan is a widely used prescription medication that belongs to the class of angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). It is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart failure, helping reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney damage.CANDISTRUM 16, manufactured by Steris Healthcare Pvt. Ltd., contains Candesartan Cilexetil 16 mg, formulated for optimal efficacy and patient safety. In this article, we’ll explore candesartan uses, side effects, mechanism of action, dosage, and why CANDISTRUM 16 is a trusted choice.

What is Candesartan?

Candesartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that works by relaxing blood vessels, lowering blood pressure, and improving blood flow. It helps the heart pump more efficiently and protects organs like the brain and kidneys from damage caused by high pressure.

Composition of CANDISTRUM 16

  • Active Ingredient: Candesartan Cilexetil 16 mg

  • Brand: CANDISTRUM 16

  • Form: Tablet

  • Manufacturer: Steris Healthcare Pvt. Ltd.

Candesartan Uses

The key medical uses of candesartan include:

  • Treatment of Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

  • Management of Heart Failure (when other medications are not sufficient)

  • Kidney protection in diabetic patients

  • Prevention of stroke or heart attack in hypertensive individuals

Lowering blood pressure helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular events and organ damage.

How Candesartan Works (Mechanism of Action)

Candesartan blocks the action of angiotensin II, a chemical that narrows blood vessels. When candesartan prevents this narrowing, it causes blood vessels to relax and widen. This leads to:

  • Decreased blood pressure

  • Reduced workload on the heart

  • Better blood flow to organs

Dosage and Administration

  • Usual starting dose: Candesartan 8–16 mg once daily

  • Maintenance dose: Up to 32 mg once daily, based on medical need

  • Take the tablet with or without food

  • Do not stop medication without consulting a doctor

Always follow your physician’s prescription for accurate dosing.

Clinical Efficacy & Real-World Results

Large-scale clinical trials such as SCOPE, CHARM, and RESOLVD have demonstrated that candesartan:

  • Significantly reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure

  • Lowers hospitalization rates in chronic heart failure

  • Improves left ventricular function

  • Is well tolerated in long-term therapy compared to ACE inhibitors

Candesartan Side Effects

While candesartan is well tolerated by most patients, some may experience:

Common Side Effects:

  • Dizziness or lightheadedness

  • Headache

  • Tiredness

  • Low blood pressure (hypotension)

Rare but Serious Side Effects:

  • Elevated potassium levels (hyperkalemia)

  • Kidney dysfunction

  • Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)

If any severe reactions occur, seek medical attention immediately.

Warnings & Precautions

Avoid or use with caution if:

  • You are pregnant or planning pregnancy

  • You have severe kidney or liver disease

  • You are taking potassium-sparing diuretics or potassium supplements

  • You have a history of angioedema or allergic reactions to ARBs

Candesartan is not recommended in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy due to the risk of fetal harm.

Drug Interactions

Candesartan may interact with:

  • Potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics

  • NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen

  • Lithium

  • Other antihypertensive agents (ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers)

Consult your doctor about all medicines you're currently taking.

FAQs About Candesartan

Q1. What is candesartan used for?
It is used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and protect kidneys in diabetic patients.

Q2. Is candesartan safe for long-term use?
Yes, when taken under medical supervision, it is safe and effective for long-term cardiovascular protection.

Q3. Can I take candesartan with food?
Yes, candesartan can be taken with or without food.

Q4. What should I do if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it's near the time for your next dose, skip the missed one—do not double up.

Q5. Can candesartan cause low blood pressure?
Yes, especially at the beginning of therapy or when combined with diuretics.

Why Choose Steris Healthcare Pvt. Ltd. for CANDISTRUM 16?

Steris Healthcare Pvt. Ltd. is a trusted name in the pharmaceutical industry, known for:

  • WHO-GMP certified manufacturing facilities

  • Accurate formulations with high purity and stability

  • Pan-India distribution ensuring product availability

  • A strong commitment to patient-centric, quality-first healthcare solutions

With CANDISTRUM 16, you receive a product manufactured under stringent quality control and backed by years of scientific expertise and therapeutic value.

Conclusion

Candesartan, available as CANDISTRUM 16, is a clinically proven and well-tolerated solution for managing hypertension and heart failure. With its targeted mechanism and reliable efficacy, it helps safeguard long-term cardiovascular health.Choosing Steris Healthcare Pvt. Ltd. means choosing quality, trust, and commitment to excellence. From research to delivery, Steris ensures every tablet meets the highest standards of care.

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