Do not use if you are pregnant. Stop using and tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.
If you have diabetes, do not take irbesartan with any medication that contains aliskiren (a blood pressure medicine).
Before taking this medicine
You should not use irbesartan if you are allergic to it.
If you have diabetes, do not take irbesartan with any medication that contains aliskiren (a blood pressure medicine).
You may also need to avoid taking irbesartan with aliskiren if you have kidney disease.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
a heart condition other than one being treated with irbesartan;
kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis); or
if you are on a low-salt diet.
Do not use if you are pregnant. Stop using the medicine and tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant. Irbesartan can cause injury or death to the unborn baby if you take the medicine during your second or third trimester.
If you plan to get pregnant, ask your doctor for a safer medicine to use before and during pregnancy. Having high blood pressure during pregnancy may cause complications in the mother and the baby.
You should not breastfeed while using  irbesartan.
How should I take irbesartan?
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Irbesartan may be taken with or without food.
Your blood pressure will need to be checked often. Your kidney function may also need to be checked.
Call your doctor if you are sick with vomiting or diarrhea, or if you are sweating more than usual. You can easily become dehydrated while taking irbesartan.
It may take up to 2 weeks before your blood pressure is under control. Keep using this medicine as directed, even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms.
You may need to use blood pressure medicine for the rest of your life. Treatment may also include diet, exercise, lowering cholesterol, not smoking, and controlling diabetes.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Overdose symptoms may include fast heartbeats or fainting.
