Can I take Beetroot and Candesartan cilexetil together?

Why this happens

Beetroot is naturally high in dietary nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide. Nitric oxide relaxes and widens blood vessels to lower blood pressure. Candesartan is an 'angiotensin II receptor blocker' (ARB) that also works by relaxing blood vessels. When used together, their effects can add up, leading to an enhanced blood pressure-lowering effect.

What you should do

You do not need to avoid beetroot entirely, but you should be cautious, especially with concentrated beetroot juice or supplements. Monitor your blood pressure regularly. If you feel dizzy or faint, sit or lie down until the feeling passes, and speak to your doctor. They may need to adjust your medication dose if you consume beetroot products regularly.

Important precautions

Pregnancy

You must not take this medicine if you are pregnant. It can cause serious harm or death to an unborn baby, especially if taken during the second and third trimesters.

Low blood pressure (Hypotension)

Both candesartan and beetroot lower blood pressure. Taking them together, especially if you are also on a low-salt diet or taking water tablets, can cause your blood pressure to drop too low, leading to dizziness or fainting.

High potassium levels (Hyperkalaemia)

Candesartan can increase potassium levels in your blood. You should avoid using potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium while taking this medicine.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

Drinking alcohol while taking candesartan can increase the blood-pressure-lowering effect of the medicine. This may make you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or faint, especially when standing up. It is best to keep your alcohol intake within recommended limits and see how the medicine affects you before drinking.

Salt substitutes and high-potassium foods

Candesartan can increase the levels of potassium in your blood. Using salt substitutes (which often contain potassium chloride) or consuming very large amounts of potassium-rich foods (such as bananas or leafy greens) can lead to dangerously high potassium levels (hyperkalaemia).

Beetroot (as a supplement or juice)

Beetroot is naturally high in nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide to lower blood pressure. Taking large amounts of beetroot juice or supplements alongside candesartan may cause your blood pressure to drop too low, leading to dizziness.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.