Exforge HCT is taken by mouth as a film-coated tablet, usually once daily. You can take it with or without food.
Take the tablet exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Swallow it with water and try to take it at the same time each day so it becomes part of your regular routine.
Best Time of Day to Take It
Exforge HCT contains hydrochlorothiazide, which is a diuretic or “water pill.” It helps your body remove extra sodium and water through urine.
Because this can make you urinate more often, many people find it easier to take Exforge HCT earlier in the day. Taking it too close to bedtime may cause you to wake up during the night to urinate.
Recommended Starting Dose
A commonly used starting dose of Exforge HCT is 5 mg/160 mg/12.5 mg once daily.
This tablet contains:
- 5 mg of amlodipine
- 160 mg of valsartan
- 12.5 mg of hydrochlorothiazide
Your actual starting dose may be different depending on the blood pressure medicines you were taking before, your current blood pressure, and your overall health.
How Your Dose Is Chosen
Your healthcare provider will consider several factors before deciding which Exforge HCT strength is appropriate for you.
These may include your blood pressure readings, kidney function, liver function, previous blood pressure treatment, other medications, and any side effects you experience.
If you were already taking amlodipine, valsartan, and hydrochlorothiazide separately, your healthcare provider may choose an Exforge HCT strength that closely matches those doses.
Dose Adjustments
If your blood pressure remains too high, your healthcare provider may gradually increase your dose.
Dose changes are usually based on how well your blood pressure responds and whether you develop side effects such as dizziness, swelling, or changes in electrolyte levels.
Do not adjust the dose on your own.
Maximum Daily Dose
The maximum recommended dose of Exforge HCT is generally 10 mg/320 mg/25 mg once daily.
This provides the highest recommended daily amounts of amlodipine, valsartan, and hydrochlorothiazide in the combination tablet.
Taking more than prescribed may increase the risk of very low blood pressure, dizziness, dehydration, kidney problems, or changes in potassium and other electrolytes.
Take Exforge HCT Regularly
Exforge HCT works best when it is taken every day as prescribed.
Do not take it only when your blood pressure seems high or when you feel symptoms. High blood pressure often has no obvious symptoms, so regular treatment is important even when you feel completely well.
When to Expect Improvement
Exforge HCT starts lowering blood pressure after treatment begins, but the full effect of a particular dose may take up to about 2 weeks.
Your healthcare provider may wait for this response before deciding whether your dose needs to be changed.
Monitor Your Blood Pressure
Your healthcare provider may recommend checking your blood pressure regularly at home.
Keeping a record of your readings can help show how well Exforge HCT is working and whether your treatment needs adjustment.
Stay Hydrated
Because hydrochlorothiazide increases urine production, it can sometimes contribute to dehydration or changes in electrolyte levels.
Drink fluids as recommended by your healthcare provider, especially during hot weather, illness, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Contact your healthcare provider if you develop severe thirst, weakness, confusion, muscle cramps, or persistent dizziness.
Do Not Stop Taking It on Your Own
Continue taking Exforge HCT even when your blood pressure improves.
Stopping the medication without medical guidance can cause your blood pressure to rise again and increase the strain on your heart and blood vessels.
Getting the Best Results
For the best results, take Exforge HCT once daily at a consistent time, follow your prescribed dose, and attend regular follow-up appointments.
Combining the medication with any diet, exercise, weight management, or other lifestyle changes recommended by your healthcare provider can also help improve long-term blood pressure control.
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