Can I take Candesartan and Paracetamol together?

Why this happens

Candesartan is a blood pressure medication (an angiotensin II receptor blocker) and paracetamol is a painkiller. They are processed by the body through different pathways and do not interfere with how the other works. Unlike some other painkillers (such as ibuprofen), paracetamol does not typically affect blood pressure or kidney function when used at standard doses.

What you should do

You can take paracetamol while taking candesartan. Always follow the recommended dose on the paracetamol packaging (usually no more than eight 500mg tablets in 24 hours). If you find you need to take paracetamol every day for a long period, you should mention this to your doctor or pharmacist.

Important precautions

Pregnancy

You must not take candesartan if you are pregnant. It can cause serious harm or death to an unborn baby, especially if used during the second and third trimesters. Use effective contraception while taking it.

Liver disease or high alcohol intake

Taking more than the recommended dose of paracetamol can cause fatal liver damage. You must be extremely careful not to take other products containing paracetamol (such as cold and flu remedies) at the same time.

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.

Potassium-rich foods (e.g., bananas, spinach, salt substitutes)

Candesartan can increase the levels of potassium in your blood. Consuming large amounts of foods very high in potassium or using potassium-based salt substitutes (such as Lo-Salt) can lead to dangerously high potassium levels (hyperkalaemia). You should avoid using potassium-based salt substitutes unless advised otherwise by your doctor.

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.