*Welcome to the OutUK series looking at gay men and their health brought to you in association with the NHS* website.**
	Each week we'll tackle a different topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We'll have features and advice on everything from relationships, sexual health, mental and physical conditions and how to stay fit. You can follow any of links provided below for more information direct from the NHS website, or see this week's feature L: Laxatives.

Who Can And Cannot Take Irbesartan

NHS medicines information on who can take irbesartan and who may not be able to take it.

Who can take irbesartan

Most adults aged 18 and over can take irbesartan.

Your doctor may prescribe irbesartan if you've taken other medicines to lower your blood pressure called angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors in the past. You may have had to stop taking them because of side effects such as a dry, irritating cough. Medicines like these include ramipril and lisinopril.

Who may not be able to take irbesartan

Irbesartan is not suitable for some people. To make sure it's safe for you, tell your doctor if you:

have ever had an allergic reaction to irbesartan or any other medicine
have diabetes
have heart or kidney problems
have recently had a kidney transplant
have or have recently had diarrhoea or you're being sick (vomiting)
are on a low salt diet
have low blood pressure (hypotension)
are trying to get pregnant, are already pregnant or you are breastfeeding

OutUK's A to Z of Gay Health continues and you can read this week's feature L: Laxatives. We have covered many subjects in this series and you can catch up with all of our Previous A to Z Features. If you want to find out more about this particular topic you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic.
Photos: LightFieldStudios and one of VladOrlov, Stockcube, darak77, ajr_images or rawpixel.com.