Olmesartan is used to treat high blood pressure, and is marketed under the brand name Benicar. Learn about olmesartan side effects, uses, and potential drug interactions in this guide.
Drug Uses
Olmesartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), which helps the blood vessels to relax. This makes it easier for the heart to pump blood, improving the flow of blood through the vessels and reducing blood pressure. This drug may be used alone or in combination with other drugs to treat hypertension. Since hypertension can lead to kidney disease, stroke, heart attack, and other serious medical conditions, it's important that this drug is taken as prescribed to keep blood pressure at a safe level.
Risks
This drug has several potential risks and should not be used by people with some medical conditions. Do not use this drug if you have ever had an allergic reaction to olmesartan. Tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, congestive heart failure, or liver disease. This drug should not be used in people who are dehydrated. If you have any of these conditions, you may need special monitoring or require a smaller dose of the drug to prevent serious consequences.
Drug Administration
This drug should be taken exactly as prescribed. Do not increase or decrease the dose without specific instructions from your doctor. If your doctor changes your dose, be sure to follow all instructions. If you find that your stomach becomes upset after taking this drug, you can take it with food to protect your stomach from becoming irritated. While taking this drug, your blood pressure should be checked regularly. Do not stop taking this medication, even if you feel like you don't need it. High blood pressure usually does not have any symptoms, so your blood pressure can increase without you knowing.
Olmesartan Side Effects
Like most drugs, there are some olmesartan side effects that may be experienced when you take this drug. These side effects include joint pain, back pain, diarrhea, headache, dizziness, stomach pain, itching, runny nose, stuffy nose, rash, cough, sore throat, increased sweating, and weakness. Some more serious side effects may occur with use of this drug. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience fainting, difficult urination, inability to urinate, painful urination, fast heart rate, chest pain, slow heart rate, tingly feeling, weak pulse, and swelling in the feet or hands.
Drug Interactions
Tell your doctor about any OTC or prescription drugs, vitamins, or herbal supplements that you are taking. These can interfere with the effects of olmesartan or increase your blood pressure. You should especially tell your doctor if you are taking, lithium, diuretics, or digoxin. Telling your doctor about all drugs you are taking can help to prevent serious drug interactions.