Olmesartan: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects and interactions
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Bharath Reddy D, Cardiology
Olmesartan is a prescription medicine that effectively manages high blood pressure and improves heart health over time.
Olmesartan belongs to a group of medications known as angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). It is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults. By helping blood vessels relax, it lowers blood pressure and reduces the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and kidney issues. It is available as oral tablets, either as a generic or under the brand name Benicar.
Olmesartan offers several benefits in managing blood pressure and preventing related complications.
Olmesartan works by blocking a hormone called angiotensin II, which causes blood vessels to narrow.
By preventing this action, Olmesartan allows blood vessels to relax and widen, improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure.
This action lowers the heart's workload and supports better circulation.
Olmesartan is available in various dosage forms, including monotherapy and combination tablets, to effectively manage high blood pressure based on individual patient needs.
| Form | Strengths Available | Common Use |
|---|---|---|
| Olmesartan (Tablet) | 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg | Used alone to treat high blood pressure |
| Olmesartan + Hydrochlorothiazide | 20 mg/12.5 mg 40 mg/12.5 mg 40 mg/25 mg |
For patients needing additional diuretic effect |
| Olmesartan + Amlodipine | 20 mg/5 mg 40 mg/5 mg 40 mg/10 mg |
For patients needing added calcium channel blocker |
| Olmesartan + Amlodipine + Hydrochlorothiazide | 20 mg/5 mg/12.5 mg 40 mg/5 mg/12.5 mg 40 mg/10 mg/25 mg |
For resistant or uncontrolled hypertension |
Following the right dosage helps ensure Olmesartan works effectively with fewer side effects.
Take the drug as soon as possible, but if your next dose is approaching, skip the missed dose. Do not combine two doses at once.
Overdose of a drug can be accidental. If you have taken more than the prescribed Olmesartan tablets, there is a chance of getting a harmful effect on your body's functions.
Signs of overdose may include dizziness, fainting, extreme low blood pressure, or irregular heartbeat.
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
What Should I Avoid While Taking Olmesartan?
Knowing what to avoid can help you stay safe and get the most benefit from this medicine.
Avoid drinking alcohol in excess, as it may further lower your blood pressure. Don't use potassium supplements or salt substitutes without medical advice.
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Get Second OpinionLike all medications, Olmesartan may cause side effects, but not everyone experiences them.
The medication can cause some serious side effects and lead to severe problems. Like all drugs, It can cause side effects, but not everyone experiences them.
When the body adjusts to the medication, the side effects usually fade.
Before using Olmesartan, talk with your doctor if you are allergic to it or any other medications.
The product may contain inactive ingredients that can cause serious allergic reactions or other problems.
Before using this medication, talk with your doctor if you have any medical history, such as
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Using Olmesartan?
Olmesartan is generally prescribed for adults, but some children may use it if deemed necessary.
Olmesartan is approved for use in children 6 years and older under medical supervision. Always follow pediatric dosage guidelines.
Alcohol or Food Interactions with Olmesartan
Proper diet and alcohol limits help avoid unwanted effects when taking Olmesartan.
Avoid high-sodium diets and alcohol overuse, which can interfere with blood pressure control. Discuss any major diet changes with your doctor.
Olmesartan may interact with other drugs and supplements, so it's essential to inform your doctor.
It may interact with:
Herbal remedies or over-the-counter drugs may also affect how Olmesartan works.
Direct contact with heat, air and light may damage your medicines. Exposure to medicine may cause some harmful effects.
The medicine must be kept in a safe place and out of children's reach.
Mainly the drug should be kept at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC).
Avoid storing it in bathrooms or near heat sources. If the medicine changes color, shape, or smell, do not use it and consult a pharmacist.
| Olmesartan | Losartan |
|---|---|
| Olmesartan belongs to the angiostensin II receptor blocker which also inludes telmisartan, candesartan, losartan, valsartan and irbesartan. | Losartan is a prescribed drug that comes in an oral tablet. This tablet is available in the brand name Cozaar. |
| Olmesartan is a drug that is used to treat high blood pressure in adults and children aged 6 and up. It may be taken alone or in conjunction with other drugs. | Losartan can be used for many purposes:
|
Some of the common side effects of Olmesartan are:
|
Some of the common side effects of Losartan are:
|

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040-68334455Fortunately, both olmesartan (generic Benicar) and losartan (generic Benicar) are available as much less expensive generic drugs (generic Cozaar).
When your renin-angiotensin system is triggered, you run the risk of severe kidney damage if you take olmesartan. If there isn't enough fluid in your blood vessels, this mechanism kicks in.
Blood sugar levels can be affected by this medication. The results of blood or urine glucose tests can change in diabetic patients. If you have any concerns, speak with your doctor. Months to years after taking this medication, serious, chronic diarrhoea with weight loss can develop.
Benicar is a prescription blood pressure medication that is an active ingredient and same as olmesartan medoxomil, this is available as a generic form.
Olmesartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) that helps blood flow more freely by relaxing blood vessels. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic (water pill) that helps the body get rid of excess salt and water by increasing urine production.
No, Olmesartan is not considered safe during pregnancy. It may harm the unborn baby, especially in the second or third trimester. Always consult your doctor before use.
Olmesartan typically begins lowering blood pressure within 1–2 weeks, with full effects seen in about 4–6 weeks. Always take it as prescribed for best results.
Olmesartan is an ARB that relaxes blood vessels. Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker that widens arteries. Sometimes both are used together for better control.
Suddenly stopping Olmesartan may cause a rise in blood pressure. It’s important to taper off the medication under medical supervision to avoid complications.
Olmesartan Medoxomil is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), lower the risk of stroke and heart attack, and protect kidney function in people with diabetes or kidney disease.
Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.