There are a lot of drugs on the market that are used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). One of the newer ones is Edarbi (generic name azilsartan), which received approval from the U.S. Food & Drug Administration in 2011. 

Edarbi is a prescription medication, so you can’t simply buy it over the counter. But it is possible—yes—to get a prescription online, and HealthTap can help with that.

You should always talk to your doctor about what kind of prescription is right for you. There are many types and classes of high blood pressure medication. But if you’re looking for more information about Edarbi and the pros and cons of taking it, keep reading.

What is Edarbi and how does it work?

Edarbi is in a class of high blood pressure medications called angiotensin-II-receptor antagonists. It blocks a hormone in your body that causes blood vessels to tighten, thereby easing the flow of blood and reducing the workload on your heart.

As with many high blood pressure medications, Edarbi can be taken alone or with other medicines. And your doctor will almost always recommend lifestyle changes to help further reduce your blood pressure. This generally includes things like:

• Adopting a low-sodium, low-fat diet

• Quitting smoking

• Reducing or eliminating alcohol use

• Exercising more

How is Edarbi taken?

Edarbi is a pill that usually comes in 40 milligram (mg) doses. Your doctor may prescribe an 80mg dose, or prescribe Edarbi in combination with another drug if the initial dose is ineffective.

You can take it with or without food. It might take a couple of weeks before you start to notice the medication working. 

Do not stop taking Edarbi suddenly. Talk to your doctor if you are considering stopping your dose.

What are the benefits of taking Edarbi?

High blood pressure, when left untreated, can cause damage to your blood vessels, heart, brain, kidneys, and more, and can result in illnesses like heart attack, heart disease, kidney failure, stroke, and loss of vision.

That’s why, if you’ve been diagnosed with high blood pressure or are considered at-risk for high blood pressure, you should stick to the medication, diet, and exercise regimen your doctor prescribes you. 

There is no cure for high blood pressure. But taking a drug like Edarbi, combined with changes to your lifestyle, can help lower your blood pressure down to a healthy level and prevent serious complications from high blood pressure. 

Pregnancy warning

Women who are pregnant should not take Edarbi as it can cause serious damage to a developing fetus.

If you become pregnant while taking Edarbi, stop taking it immediately and call your doctor.

Other side effects of Edarbi

Most people who use Edarbi report mild or no side effects. There are a few to watch out for, however.

Diarrhea

If you experience severe diarrhea, or if it doesn’t go away, call your doctor.

Dizziness and fainting

These could be serious—call your doctor right away if you experience either one.

General unusual side effects

Edarbi may cause other side effects not listed here. If you notice anything unusual while you’re taking it, call your doctor.

Warnings and things to tell your doctor before taking Edarbi

Tell your doctor if you:

• Are allergic to azilsartan, any of the ingredients in azilsartan tablets, or any other medications

• Have diabetes and are taking aliskiren (your doctor probably won’t prescribe Edarbi if you are)

• Are taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medications, including vitamins, supplements, and herbal products

• Have ever experienced heart failure, liver disease, or kidney disease

• Are breastfeeding

Get an Edarbi prescription with HealthTap

HealthTap doctors can write online prescriptions for Edarbi or any other medication they recommend for your high blood pressure.

That said, you’ll need to meet with a HealthTap doctor first, and you should not request a specific medication. Our doctors will review your medical history and your unique health attributes to determine what the best high blood pressure medication is for you.

Once you’ve had an appointment, your doctor can write a prescription and send it to your nearest pharmacy. They can also text with you for free afterward to address any follow-up questions or clarifications.

Additionally, HealthTap primary care doctors can meet with you regularly, just like an in-person primary care doctor, to help you manage your high blood pressure and your medications. 

Book an appointment with HealthTap today to get started.