Sartel is a prescription medication containing the active ingredient Telmisartan, a potent angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) specifically formulated for the management of essential hypertension in adults. This therapeutic agent works by selectively blocking the binding of angiotensin II to the AT1 receptors, resulting in vasodilation, reduced aldosterone secretion, and consequent blood pressure reduction. With its once-daily dosing and proven 24-hour efficacy, Sartel offers clinicians a reliable option for achieving consistent blood pressure control and reducing cardiovascular risk in hypertensive patients. Its distinct pharmacological profile includes the longest half-life among ARBs, providing sustained coverage and minimizing blood pressure variability.

Features

• Contains Telmisartan 20 mg, 40 mg, or 80 mg as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
• Available as film-coated tablets for oral administration
• Manufactured under cGMP conditions with strict quality control
• Bioequivalent to reference listed drug products
• Packaged in blister strips with desiccant for stability
• Includes child-resistant packaging features
• Batch traceability and expiry dating clearly printed
• Vegan-friendly formulation (no animal-derived excipients)

Benefits

• Provides 24-hour blood pressure control with single daily dosing
• Reduces the risk of cardiovascular events in hypertensive patients
• Demonstrates excellent tolerability profile with low incidence of side effects
• Offers renal protective effects in patients with type 2 diabetes and hypertension
• Shows metabolic neutrality without adverse effects on glucose or lipid metabolism
• May be used as monotherapy or in combination with other antihypertensive agents

Common use

Sartel is primarily indicated for the treatment of essential hypertension in adults. It may be used as initial monotherapy or as part of combination therapy when additional blood pressure reduction is required. The medication is particularly valuable in patients who require once-daily dosing for adherence purposes and those who may benefit from its metabolic profile. Clinical evidence supports its use in hypertensive patients with concomitant type 2 diabetes mellitus, where it demonstrates renal protective properties beyond blood pressure control alone. Some specialists also consider Sartel for off-label use in certain cases of heart failure when other first-line therapies are not suitable.

Dosage and direction

The recommended initial dose of Sartel is 40 mg once daily. Some patients may be started on 20 mg daily, particularly those with volume depletion or renal impairment. The dosage may be increased to 80 mg once daily based on blood pressure response. Sartel may be administered with or without food, though consistency in administration relative to meals is recommended. Tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and not crushed or chewed. The antihypertensive effect is substantially present within two weeks and maximal after four weeks of treatment. Dose adjustments may be necessary in patients with severe renal impairment or hepatic dysfunction, with regular monitoring of renal function and electrolytes recommended.

Precautions

Patients should be advised that inadequate fluid intake, excessive perspiration, diarrhea, or vomiting may lead to an excessive fall in blood pressure, with possible lightheadedness and syncope. Periodic assessment of renal function is recommended, particularly in patients with renal artery stenosis, heart failure, or volume depletion. Serum potassium levels should be monitored regularly, especially in patients with impaired renal function, diabetes, or those taking potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics. Use with caution in patients with biliary obstructive disorders or hepatic impairment due to primarily biliary elimination. Sartel should not be used during pregnancy and women of childbearing potential should use adequate contraception.

Contraindications

Sartel is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to Telmisartan or any component of the formulation. It must not be used during pregnancy, particularly in the second and third trimesters, due to the risk of fetal injury and death. Concomitant use with aliskiren in patients with diabetes is contraindicated. Patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class C) should not receive Sartel. The medication is also contraindicated in patients with bilateral renal artery stenosis or stenosis to a solitary kidney. Concomitant use with ACE inhibitors in patients with diabetic nephropathy is not recommended due to increased risk of adverse events.

Possible side effects

The most common adverse reactions occurring in >1% of patients treated with Sartel include upper respiratory tract infection, back pain, sinusitis, diarrhea, and pharyngitis. Less frequent but potentially serious side effects may include symptomatic hypotension, hyperkalemia, renal impairment, and angioedema (rare). Elevations of liver enzymes and bilirubin have been reported. Some patients may experience dizziness, fatigue, or abdominal pain. Cases of anemia, thrombocytopenia, eosinophilia, and urticaria have been reported rarely. Patients should be advised to report any signs of infection, unusual bruising or bleeding, or symptoms suggesting angioedema immediately.

Drug interaction

Sartel may increase serum lithium concentrations and lithium toxicity, requiring reduced lithium dosage and frequent monitoring. Concomitant use with other RAS-acting agents increases the risk of hypotension, hyperkalemia, and renal impairment. NSAIDs may reduce the antihypertensive effect and increase the risk of renal impairment. Digoxin concentrations may increase when coadministered with Sartel. The antihypertensive effect may be enhanced by other antihypertensive agents. Potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, or salt substitutes containing potassium may increase the risk of hyperkalemia. Sartel may potentiate the effects of muscle relaxants such as baclofen. Monitoring is recommended when used with CYP2C19 substrates.

Missed dose

If a dose of Sartel is missed, patients should take it as soon as they remember, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose. Consistency in dosing is important for maintaining stable blood pressure control, so patients should be encouraged to establish a routine for medication administration. If multiple doses are missed, blood pressure should be monitored closely and the healthcare provider consulted if significant blood pressure elevation occurs.

Overdose

The most likely manifestation of Sartel overdose would be hypotension and tachycardia, with possible bradycardia if vagal stimulation occurs. Bradycardia could be exacerbated by concomitant beta-blocker use. If overdose occurs, the patient should be placed in supine position and vital signs monitored frequently. Treatment should be supportive and directed toward restoring blood pressure and addressing symptoms. Intravenous normal saline may be administered for volume expansion. Hemodialysis is not effective for removing Telmisartan due to high protein binding. Vasopressors may be considered if necessary, with angiotensin II being potentially the most specific antagonist. Symptomatic and supportive measures should be implemented based on the clinical presentation.

Storage

Sartel tablets should be stored at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F) in the original container. Protect from light and moisture. Keep the container tightly closed and ensure the desiccant remains in the package. Do not store in bathrooms or other areas with high humidity. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use tablets that show signs of physical damage, discoloration, or that are beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging. Proper storage conditions are essential for maintaining stability and efficacy throughout the product’s shelf life.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Sartel is a prescription medication that should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Patients should not initiate, adjust, or discontinue medication without consulting their physician. The complete prescribing information should be consulted before administration. Individual patient responses may vary, and treatment decisions should be based on the healthcare provider’s assessment of the specific clinical situation. This information may not include all possible uses, directions, precautions, or interactions.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate that Sartel (Telmisartan) provides effective blood pressure reduction with once-daily dosing. In the ONTARGET trial involving 25,620 patients, Telmisartan was non-inferior to ramipril in reducing cardiovascular events with better tolerability. A meta-analysis of 18 studies confirmed Telmisartan’s efficacy in 24-hour blood pressure control, particularly during the early morning surge period. Real-world evidence from prescription databases indicates high persistence rates with Telmisartan therapy compared to other ARBs. Patient satisfaction surveys report appreciation for the once-daily regimen and minimal side effect profile. Specialist consensus guidelines frequently position Telmisartan as a preferred ARB option, particularly for patients with metabolic concerns or requiring reliable 24-hour coverage.