Does drug use Exforge lead to addiction?

Health

Living in this modern world should make you wonder why some diseases in the past are not as much as what is now. Imagine, in the old days, metabolic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension were not as much as they are now. True, it could be because nowadays with sophisticated technology and medical knowledge, the number of people diagnosed with diseases are better recorded since it is much easier to be diagnosed. Or, it could be because people nowadays understand the importance of taking care of their health by knowing what to do when they are faced with certain preventable diseases. Still, this does not mean metabolic diseases are common because of the information we are capable of getting now. Metabolic diseases are very common in the world we are living now and at the current time because of our unhealthy ways of living including sedentary lifestyle and bad eating habits.

Metabolic disease such as hypertension is on the rise and the number does not seem to cease. There are many antihypertensive drugs available to help patients achieve a better blood pressure. One of them is Exforge 5/80 mg. It is important to keep blood pressure at an optimal level. This means that people with hypertension might not have the same normal blood pressure as other healthy people do even on antihypertensive medicine. This is because people with hypertension’s blood circulation system differs slightly with healthy people. Thus, optimal blood pressure or specific target is catered to prevent further complications in the future and still enable them to have a healthy life.

Exforge contains amlodipine and valsartan as its active ingredients. Amlodipine belongs to the drug class of calcium channel blocker (CCB) that works by preventing movement of calcium into the cells of the heart and blood vessels. This led to relaxation of blood vessels which then lowered the blood pressure. Valsartan belongs to the drug class of angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) that works by blocking the effect of the angiotensin II hormone. This hormone in nature leads to constriction of the blood vessel. Hence, ARB blocks the action of the enzyme to the blood vessels from constriction to relaxation. In general, Exforge is a good antihypertensive drug as reports show that combination of CCB and ARB gives extra blood pressure lowering effects and is less likely to cause side effects.

Exforge is available in a few different dosages. Doctors will prescribe the suitable dose based on the patient’s current blood pressure state and health condition. The dose may change in a few more weeks to come if the doctor thinks the targeted blood pressure has yet to be achieved. Patients are likely to receive Exforge when in need of two or more types of antihypertensive drugs that are combined into one tablet. This makes it easier for patients to take it on a daily basis. It is best to take this medicine regularly to fully reap the benefits. Patients are advised to take this medicine at the same time of the day to help them remember. Patients need to take this medicine as directed by the doctor and never change the dose or take it excessively. Do not stop taking this medicine unless otherwise by doctors. Patients need to take this medicine continuously even if they are feeling well because most people with high blood pressure do not feel unwell although their blood pressure is very high. It may take several weeks for the medicine to fully work.

Even though Exforge does have benefits, it also comes with potential side effects. Side effects may or may not affect patients since responses are individually. Common side effects include dizziness, light-headedness, fatigue, insomnia, low libido, dry cough and stomach pain. If these side effects persist or get worse, you should tell your doctor. If serious side effect such as swelling of the legs or ankle, infection characterised by sore throat that does not resolve, fever and chills, symptoms of high potassium blood level (hypokalaemia) marked by muscle weakness and irregular heartbeat or sign of sudden kidney issues such as changes or low urination, patient should get immediate medical advice. Any unwanted effects from this medicine should be addressed to your doctor or pharmacist.

Patients might wonder if Exforge will cause addiction since it needs to be taken for a long time. Luckily, there is no evidence showing that Exforge may cause addiction. However, patients must not drink alcohol or use illegal drugs when using Exforge as it may lead to higher risk for adverse side effects.

In essence, Exforge is indeed a good blood pressure medication. The combination of the drug that is made into one tablet makes it easier for people to keep track of their medication. If a patient does have other medical conditions such as liver problems or heart diseases, the patient needs to notify their doctor before taking this medicine. If patients are using any supplements or taking other medicine, be sure to let the doctor acknowledge this to prevent possible drug interactions.