Consumer medicine information

APO-Telmisartan HCTZ

Telmisartan; Hydrochlorothiazide

BRAND INFORMATION

Brand name

APO-Telmisartan HCTZ

Active ingredient

Telmisartan; Hydrochlorothiazide

Schedule

S4

 

Consumer medicine information (CMI) leaflet

Please read this leaflet carefully before you start using APO-Telmisartan HCTZ.

SUMMARY CMI

APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ

Consumer Medicine Information (CMI) summary

The full CMI on the next page has more details. If you are worried about using this medicine, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

1. Why am I using APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ?

APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ contains the active ingredients telmisartan and hydrochlorothiazide. APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ is used to lower high blood pressure (hypertension).

For more information, see Section 1. Why am I using APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ? in the full CMI.

2. What should I know before I use APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ?

Do not use if you have ever had an allergic reaction to telmisartan, hydrochlorothiazide or any of the ingredients listed at the end of the CMI.

Talk to your doctor if you have any other medical conditions, take any other medicines, or are pregnant or plan to become pregnant or are breastfeeding.

For more information, see Section 2. What should I know before I use APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ? in the full CMI.

3. What if I am taking other medicines?

Some medicines may interfere with APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ and affect how it works.

A list of these medicines is in Section 3. What if I am taking other medicines? in the full CMI.

4. How do I use APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ?

  • It is important to take APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has told you.
  • Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water.

More instructions can be found in Section 4. How do I use APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ? in the full CMI.

5. What should I know while using APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ?

Things you should do
  • Remind any doctor, dentist or pharmacist you visit that you are using APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ.
  • If you are about to be started on any new medicine, tell your doctor or pharmacist that you are taking APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ.
  • If you feel that APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ is not helping your condition, tell your doctor or pharmacist.
  • Tell your doctor immediately if you become pregnant while taking APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ.
  • If you are going to have surgery, tell your doctor and anaesthetist that you are taking APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ.
Things you should not do
  • Do not stop using this medicine or lower to dosage suddenly without checking with your doctor.
  • Do not use APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ to treat other complaints unless your doctor or pharmacist tells you to.
  • Do not give this medicine to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you.
Driving or using machines
  • Be careful when driving or operating machinery until you know how APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ affects you.
Drinking alcohol
  • Alcohol may interfere with TELMISARTAN HCT. Tell your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Looking after your medicine
  • Leave the tablets in the blister strip until it is time to take a dose.
  • Keep APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ in a cool, dry place where the temperature stays below 25°C.

For more information, see Section 5. What should I know while using APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ? in the full CMI.

6. Are there any side effects?

There are a number of side effects associated with this medicine. Tell your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible if you do not feel well while you are taking APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ, even if you do not think it is connected with this medicine.

For more information, including what to do if you have any side effects, see Section 6. Are there any side effects? in the full CMI.



FULL CMI

APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ

Active ingredient(s): Telmisartan and hydrochlorothiazide

Consumer Medicine Information (CMI)

This leaflet provides important information about using APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ. You should also speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you would like further information or if you have any concerns or questions about using APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ.

Where to find information in this leaflet:

1. Why am I using APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ?
2. What should I know before I use APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ?
3. What if I am taking other medicines?
4. How do I use APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ?
5. What should I know while using APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ?
6. Are there any side effects?
7. Product details

1. Why am I using APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ?

APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ contains the active ingredients telmisartan and hydrochlorothiazide. APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ is used to lower high blood pressure (hypertension).

Everyone has blood pressure. This pressure helps your blood move around your body. Your blood pressure may be different at different times of the day, depending on how busy or worried you are.

You have hypertension (high blood pressure) when your blood pressure stays higher than is needed, even when you are calm or relaxed.

There are usually no signs of hypertension. The only way of knowing that you have hypertension is to have your blood pressure checked on a regular basis.

These two active ingredients help to reduce blood pressure in different ways:

  • Telmisartan belongs to a group of medicines called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. Angiotensin II is a substance in the body which causes blood vessels to narrow, thus increasing blood pressure. Telmisartan works by blocking the effect of angiotensin II. When the effect of angiotensin II is blocked, your blood vessels relax and your blood pressure goes down.
  • Hydrochlorothiazide belongs to the group of medicines called diuretics. Diuretics help to reduce the amount of excess fluid in the body by increasing the amount of urine produced. They help with lowering blood pressure particularly when used with other blood pressure lowering medicines. Your doctor may have prescribed.

If high blood pressure is not treated, it can lead to serious health problems, including stroke, heart disease and kidney failure.

2. What should I know before I use APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ?

Warnings

Do not use APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ if:

  • You are allergic to Telmisartan or hydrochlorothiazide (the two active ingredients in APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ), or any of the ingredients listed at the end of this leaflet.
  • You had an allergic reaction to other sulfonamide-derived medicines.
  • You have a rare hereditary condition of fructose intolerance.
  • You have a rare hereditary condition of galactose intolerance.
  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • You are under the age of 18 years.
  • You have the following medical conditions:
    - severe liver disease
    - severe kidney disease
    - cholestasis or biliary obstructive disorders (problem with the flow of bile from the gall bladder)
    - low potassium levels in the blood
    - high calcium levels in the blood.
    - low sodium levels that is treatment resistant
    - low blood volume causing very low blood pressure
    - gout
    - diabetes or kidney problems and you are taking aliskiren (a medicine used to treat high blood pressure).
  • Always check the ingredients to make sure you can use this medicine.

Check with your doctor if you:

  • have any other medical conditions, including:
    - kidney problems
    - liver problems
    - heart problems
    - diabetes
    - a condition known as primary hyperaldosteronism (raised aldosterone levels, also known as Conn's syndrome)
    - fructose intolerance
    - galactose intolerance
    - recent severe diarrhoea or vomiting
    - asthma
    - systemic lupus erythematosus (a disease affecting the skin, joints and kidney)
    - eye problems
    - skin cancer.
  • experienced breathing or lung problems (including inflammation or fluid in the lungs) following hydrochlorothiazide intake in the past.
  • are following a very low salt diet
  • take any medicines for any other condition

During treatment, you may be at risk of developing certain side effects. It is important you understand these risks and how to monitor for them. See additional information under Section 6. Are there any side effects?

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Do not take APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ if you are pregnant.

Like other similar medicines, it may affect your developing baby if you take it during pregnancy.

Do not breast-feed if you are taking APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ.

It is not known if telmisartan or hydrochlorothiazide, the active ingredients in APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ, pass into breast milk and there is a possibility that your baby may be affected.

Check with your doctor if you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant.

Talk to your doctor if you are breastfeeding or intend to breastfeed.

Children

  • Do not give APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ to a child under the age of 18 years.
  • Safety and effectiveness in children and teenagers up to 18 years of age have not been established.

3. What if I am taking other medicines?

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including any medicines, vitamins or supplements that you buy without a prescription from your pharmacy, supermarket or health food shop.

Some medicines and APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ may interfere with each other. These include:

  • any other medicines used to treat high blood pressure such as betablockers
  • heart medicines such as digoxin, a medicine used to treat heart failure or antiarrhythmic medicines
  • lithium, a medicine used to treat certain mental illnesses
  • medicine used to treat depression
  • antipsychotics, medicines used to treat certain mental and emotional conditions
  • antiepileptics, medicines used to treat epilepsy or fits
  • other diuretics or fluid tablets medicines used to help the kidneys get rid of salt and water by increasing the amount of urine produced
  • laxatives
  • potassium supplements or potassium-containing salt substitutes
  • medicines or salt substitutes which may increase your potassium levels
  • amphotericin B, a medicine used to treat fungal infections
  • penicillin antibiotics used to treat bacterial infections
  • alcohol
  • sleeping tablets
  • strong pain killing medicines
  • medicines for diabetes (oral tablets or capsules or insulin)
  • powder or granules used to help reduce cholesterol
  • corticosteroid medicines such as prednisolone, cortisone or ACTH (a hormone)
  • aspirin
  • nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents (medicines used to relieve pain, swelling and other symptoms of inflammation including arthritis)
  • medicines used to treat gout
  • medicines used to increase blood pressure, such a noradrenaline
  • ciclosporin, a medicine used to help prevent organ transplant rejection or to treat certain problems with the immune system
  • calcium supplements or medicines containing calcium
  • vitamin D supplements
  • anticholinergic medicines, which can be used to treat parkinson's disease, relieve stomach cramps or prevent travel sickness
  • amantadine, a medicine used to treat Parkinson's disease or to prevent influenza
  • medicines used to treat cancer (cytotoxic medicines)

These medicines may be affected by APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ, or may affect the way it works. Other medicines used to treat high blood pressure may have an additive effect with APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ in lowering your blood pressure. Therefore, you may need different amounts of your medicines.

Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure about what medicines, vitamins or supplements you are taking and if these affect APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ.

4. How do I use APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ?

How much to take

  • The usual dose for adults is one APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ 40/12.5 mg tablet once a day. If your blood pressure is still too high after 4-8 weeks of starting treatment, your doctor may increase your dose to one APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ 80/12.5 mg tablet once a day.
  • If your blood pressure is still not satisfactorily controlled with APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ 80/12.5 mg, your doctor may increase your dose to one APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ 80/25 mg tablet once a day.
  • It is important to take APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has told you.

When to take APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ

  • APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ should be taken at about the same time each day, either morning or evening.
  • Taking it at the same time each day will have the best effect. It will also help you remember when to take it.
  • It does not matter if you take APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ before or after food.
  • You can take APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ with or without food.

How to take APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ

  • Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water.
  • It does not matter if you take APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ before or after food.
  • You can take APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ with or without food.

How long to take APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ

Take APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ every day until your doctor tells you to stop.

APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ helps control your high blood pressure but does not cure it. It is important to keep taking APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ every day even if you feel well.

People who have high blood pressure often feel well and do not notice any signs of this problem.

If you forget to use APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ

APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ should be used regularly at the same time each day. If you miss your dose at the usual time, take the dose as soon as you remember and then go back to taking it as you would normally.

If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take your next dose when you are meant to.

Do not take a double dose to make up for the dose you missed.

This may increase the chance of you getting unwanted side effects.

If you use too much APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ

If you think that you have used too much APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ, you may need urgent medical attention.

You should immediately:

  • phone the Poisons Information Centre
    (by calling 13 11 26), or
  • contact your doctor, or
  • go to the Emergency Department at your nearest hospital.

You should do this even if there are no signs of discomfort or poisoning.

5. What should I know while using APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ?

Things you should do

Tell any other doctors, dentists and pharmacists who are treating you that you are taking APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ.

If you are about to be started on any new medicine, tell your doctor or pharmacist that you are taking APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ.

If you feel that APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ is not helping your condition, tell your doctor or pharmacist.

Tell your doctor if, for any reason, you have not used APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ exactly as prescribed.

Otherwise, your doctor may think that it was not effective and change your treatment unnecessarily.

If you are going to have surgery, tell your doctor and anaesthetist that you are taking APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ.

APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ may affect some medicines you receive during surgery.

Keep all of your doctor's appointments so that your progress can be checked.

Your doctor may do some tests from time to time to make sure the medicine is working and to prevent unwanted side effects.

Tell your doctor if you develop an unexpected abnormal lump, bump, ulcer, sore or coloured area on the skin (skin lesion) during the treatment.

Protect your skin from sun exposure and UV rays while APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ.

If you develop any severe shortness of breath or difficulty breathing after taking APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ, seek medical attention immediately.

Treatment with hydrochlorothiazide, particularly long-term use with high doses, may increase the risk of some types of skin and lip cancer (nonmelanoma skin cancer).

Call your doctor straight away if you:

  • Become pregnant while taking APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ

Remind any doctor, dentist or pharmacist you visit that you are using APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ.

Things you should not do

  • Do not use APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ to treat other complaints unless your doctor or pharmacist tells you to.
  • Do not give this medicine to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you.
  • Do not stop taking APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ or lower the dosage without checking with your doctor.

Driving or using machines

Be careful before you drive or use any machines or tools until you know how APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ affects you.

Like other medicines used to treat high blood pressure, APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ may cause sleepiness, dizziness or lightheadedness in some people.

If you have any of these symptoms, do not drive, operate machinery or do anything else that could be dangerous.

You may feel dizzy or light-headed when you begin to take APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ, especially if you are also taking a diuretic (or fluid tablet) or if you are dehydrated.

If you feel dizzy or light-headed, and you wish to stand up, you should do so slowly.

Standing up slowly, especially when you get up from a bed or chair, will help your body get used to the change in position and blood pressure. If this problem continues or gets worse, talk to your doctor.

Drinking alcohol

Tell your doctor if you drink alcohol.

Alcohol may interfere with TELMISARTAN HCT

Looking after your medicine

  • Leave the tablets in the blister strip until it is time to take a dose.
    The blister pack protects the tablets from light and moisture.
  • Keep APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ in a cool, dry place where the temperature stays below 25°C.

Follow the instructions in the carton on how to take care of your medicine properly.

Store it in a cool dry place away from moisture, heat or sunlight; for example, do not store it:

  • in the bathroom or near a sink, or
  • in the car or on window sills.

Keep it where young children cannot reach it.

Getting rid of any unwanted medicine

If you no longer need to use this medicine or it is out of date, take it to any pharmacy for safe disposal.

Do not use this medicine after the expiry date.

6. Are there any side effects?

All medicines can have side effects. If you do experience any side effects, most of them are minor and temporary. However, some side effects may need medical attention.

See the information below and, if you need to, ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any further questions about side effects.

Less serious side effects

Less serious side effectsWhat to do
  • ‘Flu-like’ symptoms
  • Fainting, dizziness or spinning sensation
  • A feeling of tension or fullness in the nose, cheeks and behind the eyes, sometimes with a throbbing ache (sinusitis)
  • Infections of the air passages
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Abnormal or blurred vision
  • Eye pain
  • Back pain
  • Changes in heart rhythm or increased heart rate
  • Rash or redness or itchiness of skin
  • Increased sweating
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness when you stand up (postural hypotension)
  • Stomach pain or discomfort (abdominal pain, dyspepsia, gastritis)
  • Wind or excessive gas in the stomach or bowel
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea or constipation
  • Dry mouth
  • Pins and needles
  • Sleep disturbances or trouble sleeping
  • Feeling anxious
  • Depression
  • Impotence
  • Leg pain or cramps in legs
  • Aching muscles or aching joints not caused by exercise or muscle spasms
  • Chest pain
  • Pain
  • Liver problems
  • Changes in the levels of potassium or sodium or uric acid in your blood (such changes are usually detected by a blood test)
  • Symptoms that may indicate low sodium levels in the blood, such as headache, dizziness, confusion, forgetfulness, weakness, unsteadiness or difficulty concentrating
  • Decrease in vision or pain in your eyes due to high pressure (possible signs of fluid accumulation in the vascular layer of the eye or acute angle-closure glaucoma).
Speak to your doctor if you have any of these less serious side effects and they worry you.

Symptoms such as feeling very thirsty, sleepy, sick or vomiting, a dry mouth, general weakness, muscle pain or cramps, a very fast heart rate, may mean that the hydrochlorothiazide part of APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ is having an excessive effect.

You should tell your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.

Tell your doctor as soon as possible if you notice any unexpected changes to your skin, including your lips.

This could be a type of skin or lip cancer (non-melanoma skin cancer).

Serious side effects

Serious side effectsWhat to do
  • Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue or throat which may cause difficulty in swallowing or breathing
  • Severe and sudden onset of pinkish, itchy swellings on the skin, also called hives or nettle rash
  • Developing or worsening of a disease called systemic lupus erythematosus which affects the skin, joints and kidney
  • Acute respiratory distress which is very rare but possible side effect (signs include severe shortness of breath, fever, weakness and confusion)
  • Increased sensitivity of the skin to the sun with symptoms of sunburn (such as redness, itching, swelling, blistering) which may occur more quickly than normal.
Call your doctor straight away, or go straight to the Emergency Department at your nearest hospital if you notice any of these serious side effects.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you notice anything else that may be making you feel unwell.

Other side effects not listed here may occur in some people.

Reporting side effects

After you have received medical advice for any side effects you experience, you can report side effects to the Therapeutic Goods Administration online at www.tga.gov.au/reporting-problems. By reporting side effects, you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

Always make sure you speak to your doctor or pharmacist before you decide to stop taking any of your medicines.

7. Product details

This medicine is only available with a doctor's prescription.

What APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ contains

Active ingredient
(main ingredient)
  • Each APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ 40/12.5 mg tablet contains 40 mg telmisartan and 12.5 mg hydrochlorothiazide.
  • Each APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ 80/12.5 mg tablet contains 80 mg telmisartan and 12.5 mg hydrochlorothiazide.
  • Each APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ 80/25 mg tablet contains 80 mg telmisartan and 25 mg hydrochlorothiazide.
Other ingredients
(inactive ingredients)
  • Povidone
  • Lactose monohydrate
  • Magnesium stearate
  • Meglumine
  • Sodium hydroxide
  • Sodium stearyl fumarate
  • Mannitol
  • Pigment Blend PB-24880 Pink colouring (40/12.5 mg and 80/12.5 mg strength only)
  • Pigment Blend PB-52290 Yellow colouring (80/25 mg strength only)
Potential allergensContains sugars as lactose.

Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to any of these ingredients.

What APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ looks like

APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ 40/12.5 mg tablets are pink mottled and white to off-white biconvex, oval shaped, two layer tablets. The white to off-white layer may contain pink specks. The pink mottled face of APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ 40/12.5 mg tablets are marked with L199.
(AUST R 208064)

APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ 80/12.5 mg tablets are pink mottled and white to off-white biconvex, oval shaped, two layer tablets. The white to off-white layer may contain pink specks. The pink mottled face of APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ 80/12.5 mg tablets are marked with L200.
(AUST R 208069)

APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ 80/25 mg tablets are yellow mottled and white to off-white biconvex, oval shaped, two layer tablets. The white to off-white layer may contain yellow specks. The white face of APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ 80/25 mg tablets are marked with L201.
(AUST R 208063)

Who distributes APO-TELMISARTAN HCTZ

Arrotex Pharmaceuticals Pty Ltd
15-17 Chapel Street
Cremorne VIC 3121 Australia

This leaflet was prepared in August 2024.

Published by MIMS October 2024

BRAND INFORMATION

Brand name

APO-Telmisartan HCTZ

Active ingredient

Telmisartan; Hydrochlorothiazide

Schedule

S4

 

1 Name of Medicine

Telmisartan and hydrochlorothiazide.

2 Qualitative and Quantitative Composition

Each tablet contains telmisartan and hydrochlorothiazide as the active ingredients.

APO-Telmisartan HCTZ 40/12.5 mg.

Each tablet contains 40 mg of telmisartan and 12.5 mg of hydrochlorothiazide.

APO-Telmisartan HCTZ 80/12.5 mg.

Each tablet contains 80 mg of telmisartan and 12.5 mg of hydrochlorothiazide.

APO-Telmisartan HCTZ 80/25 mg.

Each tablet contains 80 mg of telmisartan and 25 mg of hydrochlorothiazide.

Excipients with known effect.

Contains sugars as lactose.
For the full list of excipients see Section 6.1 List of Excipients.

3 Pharmaceutical Form

APO-Telmisartan HCTZ 40/12.5 mg.

Each tablet is a pink mottled and white to off-white biconvex, oval shaped, two layer tablet. The white to off-white layer may contain pink specks. The pink mottled face of tablets are marked with L199.

APO-Telmisartan HCTZ 80/12.5 mg.

Each tablet is a pink mottled and white to off-white biconvex, oval shaped, two layer tablet. The white to off-white layer may contain pink specks. The pink mottled face of tablet is marked with L200.

APO-Telmisartan HCTZ 80/25 mg.

Each tablet is a yellow mottled and white to off-white biconvex, oval shaped, two layer tablet. The white to off-white layer may contain yellow specks. The white face of tablets are marked with L201.

4 Clinical Particulars

4.1 Therapeutic Indications

APO-Telmisartan HCTZ is indicated for the treatment of hypertension. Treatment should not be initiated with these combinations.

4.2 Dose and Method of Administration

APO-Telmisartan HCTZ is intended for oral administration.

Dosage.

Adults.

The recommended dose is one tablet once daily.
The dose of telmisartan can be increased before switching to APO-Telmisartan HCTZ. Direct change from monotherapy to the fixed combinations may be considered.
APO-Telmisartan HCTZ 40/12.5 mg may be administered in patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled by telmisartan 40 mg or hydrochlorothiazide.
APO-Telmisartan HCTZ 80/12.5 mg may be administered in patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled by telmisartan 80 mg or by APO-Telmisartan HCTZ 40/12.5 mg.
APO-Telmisartan HCTZ 80/25 mg may be administered in patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled by APO-Telmisartan HCTZ 80/12.5 mg or in patients who have been previously stabilised on telmisartan and hydrochlorothiazide given separately.
Sodium or volume depletion should be corrected before treatment commencement with APO-Telmisartan HCTZ.
The maximum antihypertensive effect with APO-Telmisartan HCTZ is generally attained 4-8 weeks after the start of treatment.
APO-Telmisartan HCTZ may be administered with or without food.

Elderly.

No dosing adjustment is necessary. Patients aged 65 years and older should be prescribed APO-Telmisartan HCTZ with caution due to increased risk of renal impairment.

Renal impairment.

Due to the hydrochlorothiazide component, APO-Telmisartan HCTZ must not be used by patients with severe renal dysfunction (creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min, see Section 4.3 Contraindications). Loop diuretics are preferred to thiazides in this population. Experience in patients with mild to moderate renal impairment has not suggested adverse renal effects and dose adjustment is not considered necessary. Periodic monitoring of renal function is advised (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use). Telmisartan is not removed from blood by haemofiltration and is not dialysable.

Hepatic impairment.

In patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment, APO-Telmisartan HCTZ should be administered with caution. For telmisartan, the dosage should not exceed 40 mg once daily. APO-Telmisartan HCTZ is contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use).

4.3 Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to any of the components of the product or sulphonamide-derived substances.
Pregnancy.
Lactation.
Cholestasis and biliary obstructive disorders.
Severe hepatic impairment, coma hepaticum, hepatic precoma.
Severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min or serum creatinine > 160 micromol/L), anuria or acute glomerulonephritis.
Refractory hypokalaemia, hypercalcaemia.
Therapy-refractory hyponatraemia.
Hypovolaemia.
Symptomatic hyperuricaemia/gout.
The concomitant use of APO-Telmisartan HCTZ with aliskiren is contraindicated in patients with diabetes mellitus or renal impairment (GFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2).
In case of rare hereditary conditions that may be incompatible with an excipient of the product, the use of the product is contraindicated (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use).

4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use

Renovascular hypertension.

There is an increased risk of severe hypotension and renal insufficiency when patients with bilateral renal artery stenosis or stenosis of the artery to a single functioning kidney are treated with medicinal products that affect the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.

Other conditions with stimulation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.

In patients whose vascular tone and renal function depend predominantly on the activity of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (e.g. patients with severe congestive heart failure or underlying renal disease, including renal artery stenosis), treatment with other medicinal products that affect this system has been associated with acute hypotension, hyperazotaemia, oliguria, or rarely acute renal failure.

Dual blockade of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system.

As a consequence of inhibiting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, changes in renal function (including acute renal failure) have been reported in susceptible individuals, especially if combining medicinal products that affect this system. Dual blockade of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (e.g. by adding an ACE-inhibitor or the direct renin-inhibitor aliskiren to an angiotensin II receptor antagonist) is not recommended and should therefore be limited to individually defined cases with close monitoring of renal function (see Section 4.3 Contraindications).

Combination use of ACE inhibitors or angiotensin receptor antagonists, anti-inflammatory drugs and thiazide diuretics.

The use of an ACE-inhibitor or angiotensin receptor antagonist, an anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID or COX-2 inhibitor) and a thiazide diuretic at the same time increases the risk of renal impairment. This includes use in fixed-combination products containing more than one class of drug. Combined use of these medications should be accompanied by increased monitoring of serum creatinine, particularly at the institution of the combination. The combination of drugs from these three classes should be used with caution particularly in elderly patients or those with pre-existing renal impairment.

Primary aldosteronism.

Patients with primary aldosteronism generally will not respond to antihypertensive medicinal products acting through inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system. Therefore, the use of APO-Telmisartan HCTZ is not recommended.

Diabetes mellitus.

Exploratory post-hoc analyses of two placebo-controlled telmisartan trials suggested an increased risk of fatal myocardial infarction and unexpected cardiovascular death (death occurring within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms without confirmation of cardiovascular cause, and without clinical or post mortem evidence of other etiology) in patients with diabetes mellitus who have no documented medical history of either coronary heart disease or myocardial infarction. In patients with diabetes mellitus, coronary heart disease may be asymptomatic and can therefore remain undiagnosed. Treatment with blood pressure lowering agent telmisartan may further reduce coronary perfusion in these patients. For this reason, patients with diabetes mellitus should undergo specific diagnostics and be treated accordingly before initiating therapy with APO-Telmisartan HCTZ.

Aortic and mitral valve stenosis, and obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

As with other vasodilators, special caution is indicated in patients suffering from aortic or mitral valve stenosis, or obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Metabolic and endocrine effects.

Thiazide therapy may impair glucose tolerance. In diabetic patients dosage adjustments of insulin or oral hypoglycaemic agents may be required. Latent diabetes mellitus may become manifest during thiazide therapy.
An increase in cholesterol and triglyceride levels has been associated with thiazide diuretic therapy; however, at the 12.5 mg dose contained in telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 40/12.5 mg and 80/12.5 mg tablets, minimal or no effects were reported. Hyperuricaemia may occur or frank gout may be precipitated in some patients receiving thiazide therapy.
In the clinical trials conducted with telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide, an increase in uric acid levels and triglyceride levels were observed with increasing dose of hydrochlorothiazide. Consideration should be taken if monitoring of lipids and uric acid levels is needed in patients at risk of metabolic disturbances when titrated to the highest dose of APO-Telmisartan HCTZ.

Electrolyte imbalance.

As for any patient receiving diuretic therapy, periodic determination of serum electrolytes should be performed at appropriate intervals including when the patient is vomiting excessively or receiving parenteral fluids.
Thiazides, including hydrochlorothiazide, can cause fluid or electrolyte imbalance (hypokalaemia, hyponatraemia, and hypochloraemic alkalosis). Warning signs of fluid or electrolyte imbalance are dryness of mouth, thirst, weakness, lethargy, drowsiness, restlessness, seizures, confusion, muscle pain or cramps, muscular fatigue, hypotension, oliguria, tachycardia, and gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea or vomiting.
Although hypokalaemia may develop with the use of thiazide diuretics, concurrent therapy with telmisartan may reduce diuretic-induced hypokalaemia. The risk of hypokalaemia is greatest in patients with liver cirrhosis, in patients experiencing brisk diuresis, in patients who are receiving inadequate oral intake of electrolytes and in patients receiving concomitant therapy with corticosteroids or ACTH. Conversely, due to the antagonism of the AT1 receptors by the telmisartan component of telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide, hyperkalaemia might occur. Although clinically significant hyperkalaemia has not been documented with telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide, risk factors for the development of hyperkalaemia include renal insufficiency and/or heart failure, and diabetes mellitus. Potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements or potassium-containing salt substitutes should be co-administered cautiously with APO-Telmisartan HCTZ (see Section 4.5 Interactions with Other Medicines and Other Forms of Interactions).
Thiazides may decrease urinary calcium excretion and cause an intermittent and slight elevation of serum calcium in the absence of known disorders of calcium metabolism. Marked hypercalcaemia may be evidence of hidden hyperparathyroidism. Thiazides should be discontinued before carrying out tests for parathyroid function.
Thiazides have been shown to increase the urinary excretion of magnesium, which may result in hypomagnesaemia.

Lactose monohydrate.

The maximum recommended daily dose of telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide contains 84 mg of lactose monohydrate in the dose strengths 40/12.5 mg and 180.5 mg in the dose strength 80/12.5 mg, and 169.4 mg of lactose monohydrate in the dose strength 80/25 mg.
Patients with rare hereditary condition of galactose intolerance, e.g. galactosaemia, lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption should not take this medicine.

Mannitol.

The maximum recommended daily dose of telmisartan and hydrochlorothiazide combination tablet contains 170 mg mannitol in the dose strength 40/12.5 mg and 340 mg mannitol in the dose strengths 80/12.5 mg and 80/25 mg.
Patients with rare hereditary condition of fructose intolerance should not take this medicine.

Sodium- and/or volume-depleted patients.

Symptomatic hypotension, especially after the first dose, may occur in patients who are volume and/or sodium depleted by vigorous diuretic therapy, dietary salt restriction, diarrhoea or vomiting. Such conditions, especially volume and/or sodium depletion, should be corrected before the administration of APO-Telmisartan HCTZ.
Isolated cases of hyponatraemia accompanied by neurological symptoms (nausea, progressive disorientation, apathy) have been observed with the use of hydrochlorothiazide.

Choroidal effusion, acute myopia and secondary angle-closure glaucoma.

Hydrochlorothiazide, a sulfonamide, can cause an idiosyncratic reaction, resulting in choroidal effusion with visual field defect, acute transient myopia and acute angle-closure glaucoma. Symptoms include acute onset of decreased visual acuity or ocular pain and typically occur within hours to weeks of drug initiation. Untreated acute angle-closure glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss. The primary treatment is to discontinue hydrochlorothiazide as rapidly as possible. Prompt medical or surgical treatments may need to be considered if the intraocular pressure remains uncontrolled. Risk factors for developing acute angle-closure glaucoma may include a history of sulfonamide or penicillin allergy.

Non-melanoma skin cancer.

An increased risk of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) [basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)] with increasing cumulative dose of hydrochlorothiazide exposure has been observed in two epidemiological studies based on the Danish National Cancer Registry (see Section 5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties, Clinical trials). Photosensitising actions of hydrochlorothiazide could act as a possible mechanism for NMSC. Patients taking hydrochlorothiazide should be informed of the risk of NMSC and advised to regularly check their skin for any new lesions and promptly report any suspicious skin lesions. Possible preventive measures such as limited exposure to sunlight and UV rays and, in case of exposure, adequate protection should be advised to the patients in order to minimise the risk of skin cancer. Suspicious skin lesions should be promptly examined potentially including histological examinations of biopsies. The use of hydrochlorothiazide may also need to be reconsidered in patients who have experienced previous NMSC (see Section 4.8 Adverse Effects (Undesirable Effects)).

Acute respiratory toxicity.

Very rare severe cases of acute respiratory toxicity, including acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) have been reported after taking hydrochlorothiazide. Pulmonary oedema typically develops within minutes to hours after hydrochlorothiazide intake. At the onset, symptoms include dyspnoea, fever, pulmonary deterioration and hypotension. If diagnosis of ARDS is suspected, APO-Telmisartan HCTZ should be withdrawn and appropriate treatment given. Hydrochlorothiazide should not be administered to patients who previously experienced ARDS following hydrochlorothiazide intake.

Ischaemic heart disease.

As with any antihypertensive agent, excessive reduction of blood pressure in patients with ischaemic cardiopathy or ischaemic cardiovascular disease could result in a myocardial infarction or stroke.

General.

Hypersensitivity reactions to hydrochlorothiazide may occur in patients with or without a history of allergy or bronchial asthma, but are more likely in patients with such a history.
Exacerbation or activation of systemic lupus erythematosus has been reported with the use of thiazide diuretics.
Cases of photosensitivity reactions have been reported with the use of thiazide diuretics (see Section 4.8 Adverse Effects (Undesirable Effects)). In the event of a photosensitivity reaction occurring during treatment, discontinuation of the treatment is recommended. If resumption of the treatment is essential, areas exposed to the sun or to artificial UVA rays should be protected.

Use in hepatic impairment.

The majority of telmisartan is eliminated in the bile. Patients with cholestasis, biliary obstructive disorders or severe hepatic insufficiency can be expected to have reduced clearance. APO-Telmisartan HCTZ is, therefore, contraindicated for use in these patients.
APO-Telmisartan HCTZ should only be used with caution in patients with impaired hepatic function or progressive liver disease, since minor alterations of fluid and electrolyte balance may precipitate hepatic coma. There is no clinical experience with telmisartan/ hydrochlorothiazide in patients with hepatic impairment.

Use in renal impairment and kidney transplantation.

Experience with telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide is modest in patients with mild to moderate renal impairment and therefore periodic monitoring of potassium, creatinine and uric acid serum levels is recommended. APO-Telmisartan HCTZ must not be used in patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min) (see Section 4.3 Contraindications). Thiazide diuretic-associated azotaemia may occur in patients with impaired renal function. There is no experience regarding the administration of telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide in patients with a recent kidney transplant.
Increases in serum creatinine have been observed in studies with ACE inhibitors in patients with single or bilateral renal artery stenosis. An effect similar to that observed with ACE inhibitors should be anticipated with APO-Telmisartan HCTZ.
Telmisartan is not removed from blood by haemofiltration and is not dialysable.

Use in the elderly.

See Section 5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties, Special populations, Elderly patients.

Paediatric use.

Safety and efficacy of telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide have not been established in children and adolescents up to 18 years. Use of telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide is not recommended in children and adolescents.

Effects on laboratory tests.

See Section 4.8 Adverse Effects (Undesirable Effects), Clinical laboratory findings.

4.5 Interactions with Other Medicines and Other Forms of Interactions

Telmisartan may increase the hypotensive effect of other antihypertensive agents. Compounds which have been studied in pharmacokinetic trials include digoxin, warfarin, hydrochlorothiazide, glibenclamide, ibuprofen, paracetamol, simvastatin and amlodipine. For digoxin a 20% increase in median plasma digoxin trough concentration has been observed (39% in a single case), monitoring of plasma digoxin levels should be considered.
In one study, the co-administration of telmisartan 80 mg once daily and ramipril 10 mg once daily to healthy subjects increases steady-state Cmax and AUC of ramipril 2.3- and 2.1-fold, respectively, and Cmax and AUC of ramiprilat 2.4- and 1.5-fold, respectively. In contrast, Cmax and AUC of telmisartan decrease by 31% and 16% respectively. The clinical relevance of this observation is not fully known.
When co-administering telmisartan and ramipril, the response may be greater because of the possibly additive pharmacodynamics effects of the combined drugs and also because of the increased exposure to ramipril and ramiprilat in the presence of telmisartan. Combining telmisartan with ramipril in the ONTARGET trial resulted in a significantly higher incidence of hyperkalaemia, renal failure, hypotension and syncope compared to telmisartan alone or ramipril alone (see Section 5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties, Telmisartan). Concomitant use of telmisartan and Ramipril is therefore not recommended in patients with already controlled blood pressure and should be limited to individually defined cases with close monitoring of renal function.
Reversible increases in serum lithium concentrations and toxicity have been reported during concomitant administration of lithium with angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors.
Cases have also been reported with angiotensin II receptor antagonists, including telmisartan. Furthermore, renal clearance of lithium is reduced by thiazides so the risk of lithium toxicity could be increased with APO-Telmisartan HCTZ. Lithium and APO-Telmisartan HCTZ should be coadministered with caution. Therefore, serum lithium level monitoring is advisable during concomitant use.
Treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) including aspirin at anti-inflammatory dosage regimens, COX-2 inhibitors and non-selective NSAIDs is associated with the potential for acute renal insufficiency in patients who are dehydrated. Compounds acting on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system like telmisartan may have synergistic effects. Patients receiving NSAIDs and APO-Telmisartan HCTZ should be adequately hydrated and be monitored for renal function at the beginning of combined treatment.
A reduced effect of antihypertensive drugs like telmisartan by inhibition of vasodilating prostaglandins has been reported during combined treatment of NSAIDs. The co-administration of NSAIDs may reduce the diuretic, natriuretic and antihypertensive effects of thiazide diuretics in some patients.
Telmisartan is not metabolised by the cytochrome P450 system and had no effects in vitro on cytochrome P450 enzymes, except for some inhibition of CYP2C19. Telmisartan is not expected to interact with drugs that inhibit, or are metabolised by cytochrome P450 enzymes.

Interactions linked to hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ).

The antihypertensive effect of HCTZ can be potentiated by other diuretics, antihypertensive agents, guanethidine, methyldopa, calcium antagonists, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, DRIs, beta-receptor blockers, nitrates, barbiturates, narcotics, phenothiazines, tricyclic antidepressants, vasodilators or by alcohol consumption.
During treatment with HCTZ, there is - at the start of treatment with adjuvant ACE inhibitors (e.g. captopril) - a risk of massive hypotension and worsening renal function. Diuretic treatment should therefore be discontinued 2 - 3 days prior to initiation of therapy with an ACE inhibitor to avoid the possibility of hypotension at the start of therapy.
Salicylates and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g. indomethacin) may reduce the antihypertensive and diuretic effect of HCTZ. In patients taking high-dose salicylates, the toxic effect of salicylates on the central nervous system may be potentiated. In patients developing hypovolaemia during treatment with HCTZ, concomitant administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may trigger acute renal failure.
Co-administration of thiazides (including HCTZ) and allopurinol may increase the frequency of hypersensitivity reactions to allopurinol.
Co-administration of thiazides and amantadine may increase the risk of amantadine-related adverse reactions.
There is an increased risk for the onset of hyperglycaemia with concomitant administration of HCTZ and beta-receptor blockers.
The effect of insulin or oral antidiabetics, uric acid-lowering agents, as well as noradrenaline (norepinephrine) and adrenaline (epinephrine), may be attenuated with concomitant use of HCTZ. There is also an increased risk of lactic acidosis when metformin is co-administered with HCTZ. An adjustment of the insulin, oral antidiabetic or uric acid-lowering agent dosage may therefore be required.
In concomitant treatment with cardiac glycosides, myocardial sensitivity to cardiac glycosides will be increased by any hypokalaemia and/or hypomagnesaemia that develops during HCTZ therapy, thereby potentiating the effects and adverse effects of these cardiac glycosides.
Concomitant use of HCTZ and kaliuretic diuretics (e.g. furosemide), glucocorticoids, ACTH, carbenoxolone, penicillin G, salicylates, amphotericin B, antiarrhythmics or laxatives may lead to increased potassium loss.
In the event of dehydration caused by diuretics, there is an increased risk of acute functional renal failure, particularly during use of high doses of iodinated contrast products. Rehydration before administration of the iodinated products is required.
Concomitant use of natriuretic diuretics and antidepressants, antipsychotics or antiepileptics may lead to increased sodium loss. Caution is advised in the long-term use of these medicinal products.
Concomitant use of thiazide diuretics and cytotoxic agents (e.g. cyclophosphamide, fluorouracil, methotrexate) may lead to a reduction in the renal excretion of cytotoxic agents. Increased bone marrow toxicity (especially granulocytopenia) can be expected.
The bioavailability of thiazide diuretics may be increased by anticholinergic agents (e.g. atropine, biperiden), likely due to a decrease in gastrointestinal motility and the gastric emptying rate. In contrast, prokinetic medicinal products such as cisapride may reduce the bioavailability of thiazide diuretics.
Diuretics increase plasma lithium levels. As concomitant administration of HCTZ and lithium leads to potentiation of the cardio- and neurotoxic effects of lithium due to decreased lithium excretion, the lithium level must be monitored in patients receiving HCTZ and lithium. In patients with lithium induced polyuria, diuretics can have a paradoxical antidiuretic effect.
The effect of curare-like muscle relaxants may be potentiated or prolonged by HCTZ. In cases where HCTZ cannot be discontinued before the use of curare-like muscle relaxants, the anaesthetist must be informed of the treatment with HCTZ.
Concomitant use of cholestyramine or colestipol reduces the absorption of HCTZ. Single doses of either colestyramine or colestipol resins bind the HCTZ and reduce its absorption from the gastrointestinal tract by up to 85 and 43 percent, respectively. However, the interaction may be minimised by staggered dosing of HCTZ and the resinate, so that HCTZ is taken at least 4 hours before or 4-6 hours after administration of the resinate.
Concomitant use with vitamin D may reduce the excretion of calcium via the urine and potentiate the increase of calcium in serum.
When co-administered with calcium salts, hypercalcaemia may occur due to the increase in tubular calcium reuptake. If calcium supplements must be prescribed, serum calcium levels should be monitored and calcium dosage adjusted accordingly.
Concomitant use with ciclosporin may increase the risk of hyperuricaemia and gout-like complications.
Thiazides can increase the hyperglycaemic effect of diazoxide.
During concomitant use of methyldopa, there have been uncommon reports of haemolysis, caused by the formation of antibodies against HCTZ.
HCTZ may reduce the response to adrenergic amines, such as noradrenaline (norepinephrine). However, the clinical impact of this effect does not justify the exclusion of their use.
The potassium-depleting effect of hydrochlorothiazide is attenuated by the potassium-sparing effect of telmisartan. However, this effect of hydrochlorothiazide on serum potassium would be expected to be potentiated by other drugs associated with potassium loss and hypokalaemia (e.g. other kaliuretic diuretics, laxatives, corticosteroids, ACTH, amphotericin B (amphotericin), carbenoxolone, penicillin G sodium, salicylic acid and derivatives). Conversely, based on the experience with the use of other drugs that blunt the renin-angiotensin system, concomitant use of potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, salt substitutes containing potassium or other drugs that may increase serum potassium levels (e.g. heparin sodium) may lead to increases in serum potassium. If these drugs are to be prescribed with APO-Telmisartan HCTZ, monitoring of potassium plasma levels is advisable.
Periodic monitoring of serum potassium is recommended when APO-Telmisartan HCTZ is administered with drugs affected by serum potassium disturbances (e.g. digitalis glycosides, antiarrhythmics and drugs known to induce torsades de pointes).

4.6 Fertility, Pregnancy and Lactation

Effects on fertility.

No studies on fertility in humans with the fixed dose combination or with individual components have been performed. The effects on fertility of telmisartan in combination with hydrochlorothiazide have not been evaluated in animal studies.

Telmisartan.

The fertility of male and female rats was unaffected at oral telmisartan doses up to 100 mg/kg/day.

Hydrochlorothiazide.

No animal fertility studies with hydrochlorothiazide are available for evaluation.
(Category D)

Telmisartan.

Angiotensin II receptor antagonists should not be initiated during pregnancy. The use of angiotensin II receptor antagonists is not recommended during the first trimester of pregnancy. When pregnancy is diagnosed, treatment with angiotensin II receptor antagonists should be stopped immediately, and, if appropriate, alternative therapy should be started.
Unless continued angiotensin II receptor antagonist therapy is considered essential, patients planning pregnancy should be changed to alternative antihypertensive treatments which have an established safety profile for use in pregnancy. When pregnancy is diagnosed, treatment with angiotensin II receptor antagonists should be stopped immediately, and if appropriate, alternative therapy should be started.
Non-clinical studies with telmisartan do not indicate teratogenic effect, but have shown fetotoxicity.
Although there is no clinical experience with telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide in pregnant women, in utero exposure to drugs that act directly on the renin-angiotensin system can cause fetal and neonatal morbidity and even death. Several dozen cases have been reported in the world literature in patients who were taking angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors. Therefore, when pregnancy is detected, APO-Telmisartan HCTZ should be discontinued as soon as possible.
The use of angiotensin II receptor antagonists is contraindicated during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.
Angiotensin II receptor antagonists exposure during the second and third trimesters is known to induce human fetotoxicity (decreased renal function, oligohydramnios, skull ossification retardation) and neonatal toxicity (renal failure, hypotension, hyperkalaemia). Oligohydramnios reported in this setting, presumably resulting from decreased fetal renal function, has been associated with fetal limb contractures, craniofacial deformation, and hypoplastic lung development. Prematurity, intrauterine growth retardation, and patent ductus arteriosus have also been reported, although it is not clear whether these occurrences were due to exposure to the drug.
These adverse effects do not appear to occur when drug exposure has been limited to the first trimester. Mothers whose embryos and fetuses are exposed to an angiotensin II receptor antagonist only during the first trimester should be so informed. Women of child-bearing age should be warned of the potential hazards to their fetus should they become pregnant.
Should exposure to angiotensin II receptor antagonists have occurred from the second trimester of pregnancy, ultrasound check of renal function and skull is recommended. Infants whose mothers have taken angiotensin II receptor antagonists should be closely observed for hypotension, oliguria and hyperkalaemia.
Telmisartan has been shown to cross the placenta in rats. There were no teratogenic effects when telmisartan alone or telmisartan in combination with hydrochlorothiazide were administered orally to rats and rabbits during the period of organogenesis at doses up to 50 mg/kg/day telmisartan and 15.6 mg/kg hydrochlorothiazide. Telmisartan was not teratogenic in rabbits at oral doses up to 45 mg/kg/day, but fetal resorptions were observed at the highest dose level. Administration of 50 mg/kg/day telmisartan to rats during pregnancy and lactation caused a decrease in birth weight and suppression of postnatal growth and development of the offspring. The no-effect dose level in rabbits was 15 mg/kg/day, and corresponded to a plasma AUC value that was about 9 times higher than that anticipated in women at the highest recommended dose. Plasma AUC values of telmisartan and hydrochlorothiazide in rats at the highest dose were both about 5 times that anticipated in women at the highest recommended dose.

Hydrochlorothiazide.

There is limited experience with hydrochlorothiazide during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester.
Hydrochlorothiazide crosses the placenta. Based on the pharmacological mechanism of action of hydrochlorothiazide its use during the second and third trimester may compromise feto-placental perfusion and may cause fetal and neonatal effects like icterus, disturbance of electrolyte balance and thrombocytopenia.
Hydrochlorothiazide should not be used for gestational oedema, gestational hypertension or preeclampsia due to the risk of decreased plasma volume and placental hypoperfusion, without a beneficial effect on the course of the disease.
Hydrochlorothiazide should not be used for essential hypertension in pregnant women except in rare situations where no other treatment could be used.
 APO-Telmisartan HCTZ is contraindicated during lactation since it is not known whether telmisartan is excreted in human milk. Animal studies have shown excretion of telmisartan in breast milk. Thiazides appear in human milk and may inhibit lactation. Lactating women should either not be prescribed APO-Telmisartan HCTZ or should discontinue breastfeeding if APO-Telmisartan HCTZ is administered.
Telmisartan is excreted in the milk of lactating rats. When administered orally to lactating rats at 50 mg/kg/day, telmisartan suppressed postnatal growth and development of the offspring.

4.7 Effects on Ability to Drive and Use Machines

The effect of telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide on ability to drive and use machines has not been studied. However, when driving or operating machinery it should be taken into account that with antihypertensive therapy, occasionally dizziness, syncope or vertigo may occur. If patients experience these adverse events, they should avoid potentially hazardous tasks such as driving or operating machinery. This applies particularly at the start of treatment, when increasing the dose, or switching medications and in interaction with alcohol.

4.8 Adverse Effects (Undesirable Effects)

Telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide has been evaluated for safety in over 1700 patients, including 716 treated for over six months and 420 for over one year. In clinical trials with telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide, no unexpected adverse events have been observed. Adverse experiences have been limited to those that have been previously reported with telmisartan and/or hydrochlorothiazide. The overall incidence of adverse experiences reported with the combination was comparable to placebo. Most adverse experiences were mild in intensity and transient in nature and did not require discontinuation of therapy.
The overall incidence and pattern of adverse events reported with telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 80/25 mg was comparable with telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 80/12.5 mg. A dose-relationship of undesirable effects was not established and they showed no correlation with gender, age or race of the patients.
Adverse events occurring at an incidence of 2% or more in patients treated with telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide and at a greater rate than in patients treated with placebo, irrespective of their causal association, are presented in Table 1.
The following adverse events were reported at a rate of 2% or greater in patients treated with telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide, but were as, or more common in the placebo group: pain, headache, cough, urinary tract infection (including cystitis).
Adverse events occurred at approximately the same rates in men and women, older and younger patients, and black and non-black patients.
The adverse reactions reported in clinical trials with telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide (including the dose strengths 40/12.5 mg, 80/12.5 mg and 80/25 mg) are listed in Table 2.
In controlled trials (n = 1017), 0.2% of patients treated with telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 40/12.5 mg or 80/12.5 mg discontinued due to orthostatic hypotension, and the incidence of dizziness was 4% and 7%, respectively.

Telmisartan.

Adverse experiences that have been reported with telmisartan in the indication of hypertension treatment or in patients aged 50 years or older at high risk of developing major cardiovascular events, without regard to causality, are listed in Table 3.

Hydrochlorothiazide.

Adverse experiences that have been reported with hydrochlorothiazide, without regard to causality, are listed in Table 4.

Clinical laboratory findings.

In controlled trials, clinically relevant changes in standard laboratory test parameters were rarely associated with administration of telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide tablets.

Haemoglobin and haematocrit.

Decreases in haemoglobin (≥ 2 g/dL) and haematocrit (≥ 9%) were observed in 1.2% and 0.6% of telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide patients, respectively, in controlled trials. Changes in haemoglobin and haematocrit were not considered clinically significant and there were no discontinuations due to anaemia.

Creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN).

Increases in BUN (≥ 11.2 mg/dL) and serum creatinine (≥ 0.5 mg/dL) were observed in 2.8% and 1.4%, respectively, of patients with hypertension treated with telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide in controlled trials. No patient discontinued treatment with telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide due to an increase in BUN or creatinine.

Liver function tests.

Occasional elevations of liver enzymes and/or serum bilirubin have occurred. No telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide treated patients discontinued therapy due to abnormal hepatic function.

Electrolyte imbalance.

See Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use.

Post-marketing experience.

In addition, the following have also been reported based on post-marketing experience.
Telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide.

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue.

Systemic lupus erythematosus.
* Most cases of hepatic function/ liver disorder from post-marketing experience with telmisartan occurred in patients in Japan, who are more likely to experience these adverse reactions.
Hydrochlorothiazide.

Neoplasms benign, malignant and unspecified (including cysts and polyps).

Frequency 'not known': non-melanoma skin cancer (Basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and lip squamous cell carcinoma) (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use; Section 5.1, Clinical trials).

Reporting suspected adverse effects.

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after registration of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit-risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions at http://www.tga.gov.au/reporting-problems and contact Arrotex Medical Information Enquiries/Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting on 1800 195 055.

4.9 Overdose

Limited information is available for telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide with regard to overdose in humans.
The most prominent manifestations of telmisartan overdose were hypotension and tachycardia; bradycardia also occurred.
Overdose with hydrochlorothiazide is associated with electrolyte depletion (hypokalaemia, hypochloraemia, hyponatraemia) and dehydration resulting from excessive diuresis. The most common signs and symptoms of overdose are nausea and somnolence. Hypokalaemia may result in muscle spasm and/or accentuate cardiac arrhythmias associated with the concomitant use of digitalis glycosides or certain anti-arrhythmic drugs.
No specific information is available on the treatment of overdose with APO-Telmisartan HCTZ. The patient should be closely monitored, and the treatment should be symptomatic and supportive depending on the time since ingestion and the severity of the symptoms. Serum electrolytes and creatinine should be monitored frequently. If hypotension occurs, the patient should be placed in a supine position, with salt and volume replacements given quickly.
Telmisartan is not removed by haemodialysis. The degree to which hydrochlorothiazide is removed by haemodialysis has not been established.
For information on the management of overdose, contact the Poisons Information Centre on 131126 (Australia).

5 Pharmacological Properties

5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties

Mechanism of action.

APO-Telmisartan HCTZ is a combination of an angiotensin II receptor antagonist (type AT1), telmisartan, and a benzothiadiazine (thiazide) diuretic, hydrochlorothiazide. The combination of these ingredients has an additive antihypertensive effect, reducing blood pressure to a greater degree than either component alone. APO-Telmisartan HCTZ once daily produces effective and smooth reductions in blood pressure across the therapeutic dose range.
Telmisartan. Telmisartan displaces angiotensin II with very high affinity from its binding site at the AT1 receptor subtype, which is responsible for the known actions of angiotensin II. Telmisartan does not exhibit any partial agonist activity at the AT1 receptor. Telmisartan binds selectively with the AT1 receptor and does not reveal relevant affinity for other receptors nor does it inhibit human plasma renin or block ion channels. The clinically relevant effect of AT1 receptor blockade is to lower blood pressure by inhibition of angiotensin II mediated vasoconstriction leading to reduction of systemic vascular resistance. During administration with telmisartan, removal of angiotensin II negative feedback on renin secretion results in increased plasma renin activity, which in turn leads to increases in angiotensin II in plasma. Despite these increases, antihypertensive activity and suppressed aldosterone levels indicate effective angiotensin II receptor blockade. Telmisartan does not inhibit angiotensin converting enzyme (kininase II), the enzyme which also degrades bradykinin. Therefore it is not expected to potentiate bradykinin-mediated adverse effects or cause oedema.
In humans, an 80 mg dose of telmisartan almost completely inhibits the angiotensin II evoked increase in blood pressure. The inhibitory effect is maintained over 24 hours and still measurable up to 48 hours.
After administration of the first dose of telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide, onset of antihypertensive activity occurs gradually within 3 hours. The maximal reduction in blood pressure is generally attained 4-8 weeks after the start of treatment and is sustained during long-term therapy. The antihypertensive effect persists constantly over 24 hours after dosing and includes the last 4 hours before the next dose. With ambulatory blood pressure monitoring and conventional blood pressure measurements, the 24 hour trough to peak ratio for 40-80 mg doses of telmisartan was > 80% for both systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP).
In patients with hypertension, telmisartan reduces both systolic and diastolic blood pressure without affecting pulse rate. The antihypertensive efficacy of telmisartan is independent of gender or age, and has been compared to antihypertensive drugs such as amlodipine, atenolol, enalapril, hydrochlorothiazide, lisinopril and valsartan.
Upon abrupt cessation of treatment, blood pressure gradually returns to pre-treatment values over a period of several days without evidence of rebound hypertension.
The incidence of dry cough was significantly lower in patients treated with telmisartan than in those given angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors in clinical trials directly comparing the two antihypertensive treatments.

Prevention of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

ONTARGET (ONgoing Telmisartan Alone and in Combination with Ramipril Global Endpoint Trial) compared the effects of telmisartan, ramipril and the combination of telmisartan and ramipril on cardiovascular outcomes in 25,620 patients aged 55 years or older with a history of coronary artery disease, stroke, transient ischaemic attack, peripheral vascular disease, or diabetes mellitus accompanied by evidence of end-organ damage (e.g. retinopathy, left ventricular hypertrophy, macro- or microalbuminuria), which represents a broad cross-section of patients at high risk of cardiovascular events.
The co-primary objectives of the ONTARGET trial were to determine if (a) the combination of telmisartan 80 mg and ramipril 10 mg is superior to ramipril 10 mg alone and if (b) telmisartan 80 mg is not inferior to ramipril 10 mg alone in reducing the primary composite endpoint of cardiovascular death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal stroke, or hospitalisation for congestive heart failure. Hypothesis tests were performed using hazard ratios and time-to-event analyses (Kaplan-Meier).
The principal patient exclusion criteria included: symptomatic heart failure or other specific cardiac diseases, syncopal episodes of unknown aetiology or planned cardiac surgery within 3 months of the start of study, uncontrolled hypertension or haemorrhagic stroke.
Patients were randomised to one of the three following treatment groups: telmisartan 80 mg (n = 8542), ramipril 10 mg (n = 8576), or the combination of telmisartan 80 mg plus ramipril 10 mg (n = 8502), and followed for a mean observation time of 4.5 years. The population studied was 73% male, 74% Caucasian, 14% Asian and 43% were 65 years of age or older. Hypertension was present in nearly 83% of randomised patients: 69% of patients had a history of hypertension at randomisation and an additional 14% had actual blood pressure readings ≥ 140/90 mmHg. At baseline, the total percentage of patients with a medical history of diabetes was 38% and an additional 3% presented with elevated fasting plasma glucose levels. Baseline therapy included acetylsalicylic acid (76%), statins (62%), beta-blockers (57%), calcium channel blockers (34%), nitrates (29%) and diuretics (28%).
Adherence to treatment was better for telmisartan than for ramipril or the combination of telmisartan and ramipril, although the study population had been pre-screened for tolerance to treatment with an ACE-inhibitor. During the study, significantly less telmisartan patients (22.0%) discontinued treatment, compared to ramipril patients (24.4%) and telmisartan/ramipril patients (25.3%). The analysis of adverse events leading to permanent treatment discontinuation and of serious adverse events showed that cough and angioedema were less frequently reported in patients treated with telmisartan than in patients treated with ramipril, whereas hypotension was more frequently reported with telmisartan.

Comparison of telmisartan versus ramipril.

The choice of the non-inferiority margin of 1.13 was solely based on the results of the HOPE (Heart Outcomes Prevention Evaluation) study. Telmisartan showed a similar effect to ramipril in reducing the primary composite endpoint of cardiovascular death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, non-fatal stroke, or hospitalisation for congestive heart failure. The incidence of the primary endpoint was similar in the telmisartan (16.7%) and ramipril (16.5%) groups. In the intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis, the hazard ratio for telmisartan versus ramipril was 1.01 (97.5% CI 0.93-1.10, p (non-inferiority) = 0.0019). The noninferiority result was confirmed in the per-protocol (PP) analysis, where the hazard ratio was 1.02 (97.5% CI 0.93-1.12, p (non-inferiority) = 0.0078). Since the upper limit of the 97.5% CI was below the pre-defined non-inferiority margin of 1.13 and the p-value for non-inferiority was below 0.0125 in both the ITT and PP analyses, the trial succeeded in demonstrating the non-inferiority of telmisartan versus ramipril in the prevention of the composite primary endpoint. The non-inferiority conclusion was found to persist following corrections for differences in systolic blood pressure at baseline and over time. There was no difference in the primary endpoint in subgroups based on age, gender, race, baseline concomitant therapies or underlying diseases.
Telmisartan was also found to be similarly effective to ramipril in several pre-specified secondary endpoints, including a composite of cardiovascular death, non-fatal myocardial infarction, and nonfatal stroke, the primary endpoint in the reference study HOPE, which had investigated the effect of ramipril versus placebo. The ITT hazard ratio of telmisartan versus ramipril for this endpoint in ONTARGET as 0.99 (97.5% CI 0.90-1.08, p (non-inferiority) = 0.0004), and confirmed by the PP hazard ratio of 1.00 (97.5% CI 0.91-1.11, p (non-inferiority) = 0.0041).

Comparison of telmisartan plus ramipril combination versus ramipril monotherapy alone.

Combining telmisartan with ramipril did not add further benefit over ramipril or telmisartan alone, thus superiority of the combination could not be demonstrated. The incidence of the primary endpoint was 16.3% in the telmisartan plus ramipril combination group, compared to the telmisartan (16.7%) and ramipril (16.5%) groups. In addition, there was a significantly higher incidence of hyperkalaemia, renal failure, hypotension and syncope in the combination group. Therefore the use of a combination of telmisartan and ramipril is not recommended in this population.
Hydrochlorothiazide. Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic. The mechanism of the antihypertensive effect of thiazide diuretics is not fully known. Thiazides affect the renal tubular mechanisms of electrolyte reabsorption, directly increasing excretion of sodium and chloride in approximately equivalent amounts. The diuretic action of hydrochlorothiazide reduces plasma volume, increases plasma renin activity, increases aldosterone secretion, with consequent increases in urinary potassium and bicarbonate loss, and decreases in serum potassium. Co-administration with telmisartan tends to reverse the potassium loss associated with these diuretics, presumably through blockade of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. With hydrochlorothiazide, onset of diuresis occurs in 2 hours, and peak effect occurs at about 4 hours, while the action persists for approximately 6-12 hours.
Epidemiological studies have shown that long-term treatment with hydrochlorothiazide reduces the risk of cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. There are no data regarding the effects of telmisartan and telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide on morbidity and mortality in hypertensive patients.

Clinical trials.

The antihypertensive effects of telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide were examined in three pivotal 8-week randomised, double-blind clinical trials.
One of the pivotal studies compared telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 40/12.5 mg to telmisartan 40 mg, in patients who failed to respond adequately to treatment with telmisartan 40 mg. Following a 4 week run-in period, patients who failed to respond to telmisartan 40 mg monotherapy (DBP > 90 mmHg) were randomised to receive either telmisartan 40 mg (167 patients) or telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 40/12.5 mg (160 patients) for 8 weeks. Seated blood pressure was taken 24 hours post-dose at each visit.
Treatment with telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 40/12.5 mg lowered DBP by an additional 3.5 mmHg and SBP by 7.4 mmHg compared to telmisartan 40 mg. Both results were highly statistically significant (p < 0.01). Most of the additional effect was seen at 4 weeks of treatment. Changes in DBP for telmisartan 40 mg monotherapy were -4.8 mmHg at week 4 and -4.3 mmHg at week 8. Changes in DBP for telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 40/12.5 mg were -6.1 mmHg at week 4 and -7.4 mmHg at week 8.
Patients in the telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 40/12.5 mg arm had a normalised blood pressure response rate (SBP < 140 mmHg and DBP < 90 mmHg) of 51.6% compared to 23.5% for patients in the telmisartan 40 mg monotherapy arm. The DBP response rate (DBP < 90 mmHg) was 64.8% for the telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 40/12.5 mg compared to 40.1% in the monotherapy arm. The SBP response rate (reduction in SBP ≥ 10 mmHg from start of active treatment) was 63.5% for the telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 40/12.5 mg compared to 42.6% in the monotherapy arm.
In the other pivotal study, telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 80/12.5 mg was compared to telmisartan 80 mg. Patients received telmisartan 40 mg (open label) for 4 weeks. At the end of 4 weeks, patients who failed to respond adequately to telmisartan 40 mg (DBP ≥ 90 mmHg) were titrated to telmisartan 80 mg. At the end of this 4 week period, patients who failed to respond adequately to telmisartan 80 mg (DBP ≥ 90 mmHg) were randomised to receive either telmisartan 80 mg (245 patients) or telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 80/12.5 mg (246 patients). Seated blood pressure was recorded 24 hours post-dose at each visit.
Treatment with telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 80/12.5 mg lowered DBP by an additional 3.1 mmHg and SBP by 5.7 mmHg compared to telmisartan 80 mg in this group of non-responders to telmisartan 80 mg monotherapy. Both were statistically significant (p < 0.01). Similar results were seen with standing blood pressure. Most of the additional effect was seen at 4 weeks of treatment. Patients in the telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 80/12.5 mg arm had a significantly greater blood pressure response rate (SBP < 140 mmHg and DBP < 90 mmHg) of 41.5% compared to 26.1% for patients in the telmisartan 80 mg arm (p < 0.05).
In the third pivotal study (n = 687 patients evaluated for efficacy), telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 80/25 mg was compared to telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 80/12.5 mg in patients who failed to respond adequately to treatment with telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 80/12.5 mg. Following a 6 week run-in period, patients who failed to respond to telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 80/12.5 mg (DBP ≥ 90 mmHg) were randomised to either continue treatment with telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 80/12.5 mg (347 patients) or to receive telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 80/25 mg (340 patients) for 8 weeks. Seated blood pressure was recorded 24 hours post-dose at each visit.
In this group of non-responders to telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 80/12.5 mg, treatment with telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 80/25 mg demonstrated an incremental blood pressure lowering effect on DBP by an additional 1.6 mmHg and on SBP by 2.7 mmHg compared to continued treatment with telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 80/12.5 mg (difference in adjusted mean changes from baseline, respectively). Both were statistically significant (p < 0.01). Patients in the telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 80/25 mg arm had a significantly greater blood pressure response rate compared to patients in the telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 80/12.5 mg arm. The DBP response rate (DBP < 90 mmHg or reduction in DBP ≥ 10 mmHg from baseline) was 59.7% for telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 80/25 mg compared to 51.9% for telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 80/12.5 mg and the SBP response rate (SBP < 140 mmHg or reduction in SBP ≥ 10 mmHg from baseline) was 65.9% for telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 80/25 mg compared to 57.3% for telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 80/12.5 mg (both p < 0.05).
An open-label follow-up study was conducted at the study end of the telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 80/25 mg pivotal study, where all patients received telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 80/25 mg for 6 months. In this follow-up study, trough seated blood pressure was further decreased by 4.6/3.6 mmHg (SBP/DBP) with telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide 80/25 mg treatment, resulting in a total reduction of 11.4/9.7 mmHg (SBP/DBP) from baseline of the preceding study. Overall, the DBP response rate (DBP < 90 mmHg or reduction in DBP ≥ 10 mmHg from baseline of the preceding study) was achieved in 74.3% of patients and the SBP response rate (SBP < 140 mmHg or reduction in SBP ≥ 10 mmHg from baseline of the preceding study) was achieved in 77.8% of patients at study end.
In a pooled analysis of two similar 8 week double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trials (n = 2121 patients evaluated for efficacy) comparing telmisartan 80 mg/hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg (942 patients) with valsartan 160 mg/hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg (952 patients), a significantly greater blood pressure lowering effect of 2.2/1.2 mmHg (SBP/DBP) was demonstrated (difference in adjusted mean changes from baseline, respectively) in favour of telmisartan 80 mg/hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg combination. Both were statistically significant (p < 0.01).
No statistical differences were found with regard to gender between the different treatment groups in all three pivotal studies. No differences were observed concerning age in the first pivotal study discussed. However, for the second and third pivotal studies, although there were no age differences between treatment groups for DBP response/lowering effect, a trend was observed for a greater SBP response/lowering effect in the elderly. This in part could be due to the fact that the elderly generally respond well to hydrochlorothiazide.
In summary, the data showed that the benefits of telmisartan and hydrochlorothiazide appear to be additive and the blood pressure reduction of telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide was larger than the blood pressure reduction achieved by either monotherapy component.

Non-melanoma skin cancer.

Based on available data from epidemiological studies, cumulative dose-dependent association between hydrochlorothiazide and NMSC has been observed. One study included a population comprised of 71,553 cases of BCC and of 8,629 cases of SCC matched to 1,430,883 and 172,462 population controls, respectively. High hydrochlorothiazide use (≥ 50,000 mg cumulative) was associated with an adjusted OR of 1.29 (95% CI: 1.23-1.35) for BCC and 3.98 (95% CI: 3.68-4.31) for SCC. A clear cumulative dose response relationship was observed for both BCC and SCC. Another study showed a possible association between lip cancer (SCC) and exposure to hydrochlorothiazide: 633 cases of lip-cancer were matched with 63,067 population controls, using a risk-set sampling strategy. A cumulative dose-response relationship was demonstrated with an adjusted OR 2.1 (95% CI: 1.7-2.6) increasing to OR 3.9 (3.0-4.9) for high use (~25,000 mg) and OR 7.7 (5.7-10.5) for the highest cumulative dose (~100,000 mg) (see Section 4.4 Special Warnings and Precautions for Use; Section 4.8 Adverse Effects (Undesirable Effects)).

5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties

Absorption.

Following oral administration of the fixed dose combination tablets, the tmax values for telmisartan vary from 0.5 to 4 hours. Absolute bioavailability of telmisartan was shown to be dose dependent. The mean absolute bioavailability of 40 mg telmisartan was 40%, whereas the mean absolute bioavailability of the 160 mg dose amounted to about 60%.
The maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) and, to a smaller extent, area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) increase disproportionately with dose. In a Phase II clinical trial, 40, 80 and 120 mg of telmisartan were administered (in capsules) for 28 days to hypertensive subjects. Maximum plasma concentrations at steady state, Cmax,ss, and AUCss were determined in 37-39 subjects per dose group.
In this trial, the mean Cmax showed a more than proportional increase with dose, increasing 4.4-fold for a two-fold increase in dose from 40 to 80 mg, and increasing 2.4-fold with a 1.5-fold increase in dose from 80 to 120 mg. The mean AUCss were nearly proportional with increasing dose, increasing 2.3-fold for a two-fold increase in dose from 40 to 80 mg, and increasing 1.5-fold with a 1.5-fold increase in dose from 80 to 120 mg.
There is no evidence of clinically relevant accumulation of telmisartan taken at the recommended dose.
When telmisartan is taken with food, the reduction in the area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC0-∞) of telmisartan varies from approximately 6% (40 mg dose) to approximately 19% (160 mg dose). The small reduction in AUC should not cause a reduction in the therapeutic efficacy. Therefore, APO-Telmisartan HCTZ may be taken with or without food.
Following oral administration of hydrochlorothiazide peak concentrations of hydrochlorothiazide are reached in approximately 1.0-2.5 hours after dosing. The absolute oral bioavailability for hydrochlorothiazide is documented as 50 to 80%.

Distribution.

Telmisartan is highly bound to plasma protein (> 99.5%), mainly albumin and alpha-1-acid glycoprotein. The mean steady state apparent volume of distribution (Vdss) is approximately 6.6 L/kg.
Hydrochlorothiazide is 68% protein bound in the plasma and its apparent volume of distribution is 0.83-1.14 L/kg.

Metabolism.

Telmisartan undergoes substantial first-pass metabolism by conjugation to the acyl glucuronide. No pharmacological activity has been shown for the conjugate. Telmisartan is not metabolised by the cytochrome P450 system.
Hydrochlorothiazide is not metabolised in man.

Excretion.

Telmisartan is characterised by bi-exponential decay pharmacokinetics with a terminal elimination half-life of 18.3-23.0 hours.
After oral (and intravenous) administration telmisartan is nearly exclusively excreted with the faeces, mainly as unchanged compound. Cumulative urinary excretion is < 1% of dose. Total plasma clearance (CLtot) is high (approximately 1000 mL/min) when compared with hepatic blood flow (about 1500 mL/min).
Hydrochlorothiazide is excreted almost entirely as unchanged drug in urine. At least 61% of the oral dose is eliminated as unchanged drug within 24 hours. Renal clearance is about 250-300 mL/min. The terminal elimination half-life of hydrochlorothiazide is 8-10 hours.

Special populations.

Elderly patients.

The pharmacokinetics of telmisartan do not differ between younger and elderly patients (i.e. patients older than 65 years of age). Patients aged 65 years and older should be prescribed telmisartan/hydrochlorothiazide with caution due to increased risk of renal impairment.

Patients with renal impairment.

Renal excretion does not contribute to the clearance of telmisartan. Based on modest experience in patients with mild to moderate renal impairment (creatinine clearance of 30-60 mL/min, mean about 50 mL/min) no dosage adjustment is necessary in patients with decreased renal function. Telmisartan is not removed from blood by haemodialysis. In patients with impaired renal function the rate of hydrochlorothiazide elimination is reduced. In a typical study in patients with a mean creatinine clearance of 60 mL/min the elimination half-life of hydrochlorothiazide was increased. In functionally anephric patients the elimination half-life is about 34 hours.

Patients with hepatic impairment.

Pharmacokinetic studies of telmisartan in patients with hepatic impairment showed an increase in absolute bioavailability up to nearly 100%. The elimination half-life is not changed in patients with hepatic impairment.

Gender.

Plasma concentrations of telmisartan are generally 2-3 times higher in females than in males. In clinical trials, however, no clinically significant increases in blood pressure response or incidences of orthostatic hypotension were found in females. No dosage adjustment is necessary. There was a trend towards higher plasma concentrations of hydrochlorothiazide in females than in males. This is not considered to be of clinical relevance.

Children.

Pharmacokinetic studies of telmisartan have not been investigated in patients less than 18 years of age.

5.3 Preclinical Safety Data

Genotoxicity.

The genotoxic potential of telmisartan in combination with hydrochlorothiazide has not been evaluated in animal studies.

Telmisartan.

Telmisartan was not genotoxic in a battery of tests for gene mutations and clastogenicity.

Hydrochlorothiazide.

Hydrochlorothiazide was not genotoxic in a gene mutation assay in bacterial cells, or in tests for clastogenic activity in vitro and in vivo. However, hydrochlorothiazide had mutagenic activity in a mammalian cell assay (mouse lymphoma cells) and caused an increase in chromosomal aberrations in vitro (Chinese hamster lung cells). Hydrochlorothiazide also had a genotoxic activity in the sister chromatid exchange assay in Chinese hamster ovary cells and a nondisjunction assay in Aspergillus nidulans.

Carcinogenicity.

The carcinogenic potential of telmisartan in combination with hydrochlorothiazide has not been evaluated in animal studies.

Telmisartan.

Two-year studies in mice and rats did not show any increases in tumour incidences when telmisartan was administered in the diet at doses up to 1000 and 100 mg/kg/day, respectively. Plasma AUC values at the highest dose levels were approximately 60 and 15 times greater, respectively, than those anticipated in humans at the maximum recommended dose.

Hydrochlorothiazide.

Two-year feeding studies in mice and rats showed no evidence of carcinogenic potential in female mice at doses up to approximately 600 mg/kg/day, or in male and female rats at doses up to approximately 100 mg/kg/day. However, there was equivocal evidence for hepatocarcinogenicity in male mice treated with hydrochlorothiazide alone at approximately 600 mg/kg/day.

6 Pharmaceutical Particulars

6.1 List of Excipients

Povidone, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, meglumine, sodium hydroxide, sodium stearylfumarate, mannitol, Pigment Blend PB-24880 Pink (40/12.5 mg and 80/12.5 mg tablets), Pigment Blend PB-52290 Yellow (80/25 mg tablets).

6.2 Incompatibilities

Incompatibilities were either not assessed or not identified as part of the registration of this medicine.

6.3 Shelf Life

In Australia, information on the shelf life can be found on the public summary of the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG). The expiry date can be found on the packaging.

6.4 Special Precautions for Storage

Store below 25°C. Protect from light and moisture.
These tablets should not be removed from their foil pack until required for administration.

6.5 Nature and Contents of Container

APO-Telmisartan HCTZ 40/12.5 mg.

Blister packs (Aluminium/ Aluminium silver foil) of 28 tablets.

APO-Telmisartan HCTZ 80/12.5 mg.

Blister packs (Aluminium/ Aluminium silver foil) of 28 tablets.

APO-Telmisartan HCTZ 80/25 mg.

Blister packs (Aluminium/ Aluminium silver foil) of 28 tablets.
Not all strengths may be available.

6.6 Special Precautions for Disposal

In Australia, any unused medicine or waste material should be disposed of by taking to your local pharmacy.

6.7 Physicochemical Properties

Telmisartan is an off-white to yellowish crystalline powder. It is practically insoluble in water, very slightly soluble in ethanol, slightly soluble in methanol and soluble in a mixture of chloroform and methanol (1:1).
Hydrochlorothiazide is a white, or practically white, odourless crystalline powder. It is very slightly soluble in water, and freely soluble in sodium hydroxide solution.

Chemical structure.

Telmisartan.


Chemical name: 4'-[(1,4'-dimethyl-2'-propyl [2,6'-bi-1H-benzimidazol] -1'-yl)-methyl]-[1,1'-biphenyl]-2-carboxylic acid.
Molecular formula: C33H30N4O2.
Molecular weight: 514.6.

CAS number.

144701-48-4.

Chemical structure.

Hydrochlorothiazide.


Chemical name: 6-chloro-3,4-dihydro-2H-1,2,4-benzothiadiazine-7-sulfonamide 1,1-dioxide.
Molecular formula: C7H8ClN3O4S2.
Molecular weight: 297.73.

CAS number.

58-93-5.

7 Medicine Schedule (Poisons Standard)

S4 - Prescription Only Medicine.

Summary Table of Changes