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.

What Are the Uses of Olmesartan Tablet?

Olmesartan offers several benefits in managing blood pressure and preventing related complications.

Conditions Olmesartan Treats

  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Risk of strokes or heart attacks due to elevated blood pressure
  • Protects kidney function in certain patients with diabetes and hypertension

Secondary Uses of Olmesartan

  • May be used in combination with other antihypertensives
  • May help reduce protein loss in urine in diabetic patients (off-label)

How Does Olmesartan Work (Mechanism of Action)?

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 Dosage

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.

Typical Dosage Instructions

  • Adult starting dosage: Usually Olmesartan 20 mg taken once per day
  • Maximum dose: 40 mg per day, depending on response

How to Take Olmesartan?

  • Olmesartan is available as a tablet to be swallowed. It's taken once a day, with or without food. Take olmesartan at the same time every day to make you continue to take it.
  • Consult your doctor or pharmacist if your child is unable to swallow a pill. The pharmacist can prepare this drug in liquid form for your child.
  • It is a blood pressure medication that lowers blood pressure but does not cure it. While the blood pressure can drop within the first week of treatment, the full effect of olmesartan can take up to two weeks to become apparent.
  • Even if you feel fine, continue taking olmesartan. Do not stop taking it without first consulting your physician.

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Olmesartan?

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.

What Happens If I Overdose on Olmesartan?

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.

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What Are the Side Effects of Olmesartan?

Like all medications, Olmesartan may cause side effects, but not everyone experiences them.

Common Side Effects of Olmesartan

  • Back pain
  • Bronchitis
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache
  • Blood in the urine
  • High blood sugar
  • High triglycerides
  • Flu
  • Sore throat

Serious Side Effects of Olmesartan

  • Serious allergic reactions
  • Swelling on the face, lips and throat
  • Low blood pressure
  • Faintness
  • Dizziness
  • Liver problems
  • Nausea
  • Itchy skin
  • Kidney problems
  • Swelling of feet

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.

Precautions for Olmesartan

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

  • Kidney disease
  • Liver disease
  • Severe loss of body water and dehydration

Warnings for some serious Health conditions

For People with an Active Renin-Angiotensin System

  • Olmesartan activates the renin-angiotensin system, a hormone pathway that regulates blood pressure and fluid balance.
  • This system remains active in conditions like heart failure, renal artery stenosis, or low blood pressure (hypotension).
  • Taking olmesartan while this system is active can increase the risk of severe kidney damage.

For People with Diabetes

  • Some studies suggest that high doses of olmesartan may increase the risk of heart attacks and death in people with diabetes.
  • If you have diabetes and are taking aliskiren, you should avoid using olmesartan, as the combination can be harmful.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

  • Olmesartan is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
  • Doctors may prescribe it only if they believe the benefits outweigh the potential risks.
  • If you are trying to conceive or are already pregnant, it's important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
  • Alternative treatments may be more suitable for you and your baby.

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.

Possible Interactions with Other Medications

Olmesartan may interact with other drugs and supplements, so it's essential to inform your doctor.

It may interact with:

  • Diuretics or other blood pressure medications
  • NSAIDs like ibuprofen
  • Potassium supplements or salt substitutes
  • Diabetes medications like aliskiren

Herbal remedies or over-the-counter drugs may also affect how Olmesartan works.

How Should Olmesartan Be Stored?

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 vs Losartan

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:
  • For treating high blood pressure
  • Reduce the risk of stroke if you're having high blood pressure and are left with ventricular hypertrophy.
Some of the common side effects of Olmesartan are:
  • Back pain
  • Bronchitis
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache
Some of the common side effects of Losartan are:
  • Respiratory infections (Common cold)
  • Dizziness
  • Stuffy nose
  • Back pain

References

Olmesartan-associated enteropathy: results of a national survey
Olmesartan: MedlinePlus Drug Information
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Frequently Asked Questions

Fortunately, 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.

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