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Olmesartan

Using brands like Benicar as a benchmark, Olmesartan serves as a medication for the management of Hypertension. It functions by preventing the narrowing of blood vessels, which aids in blood pressure control. It is listed here as Olmesartan tablets.

Medicine containing Olmesartan

Olmesartan

Hypertension

10 · 20 · 40mg

Olmesartan 10, 20 and 40 mg tablets, an angiotensin receptor blocker for high blood pressure, the ingredient in Olmetec and Benicar.

FromUS$0.67/ tabletView

Key points

  • Blocks the hormone that narrows blood vessels, helping to ease strain on the heart and control hypertension.
  • Elsewhere it is also combined with amlodipine (Azor) or a diuretic (Benicar HCT).
  • Dizziness or light-headedness can occur, especially when standing up quickly after starting treatment.

What is Olmesartan?

Olmesartan belongs to a class of medications called angiotensin II receptor blockers. By blocking the hormone that causes vessels to tighten, it allows blood to flow more easily. Healthcare providers often recommend this medication as part of a wider strategy for the Heart & Blood Pressure category to reduce strain on the cardiovascular system.

How does Olmesartan work?

The body naturally produces a substance that constricts and narrows blood vessels. Olmesartan prevents this substance from accessing its receptor sites. Consequently, vessels relax and widen, allowing blood to circulate with less resistance. This process eases the workload on the heart and keeps blood pressure at a more sustainable level.

Olmesartan brands and forms

Original medications include brands such as Sevikar, Olmetec, Ometec, and Olmesartanplus, while the US brand is Benicar. These are typically manufactured as a film-coated tablet for stable release. When comparing options, you may find that some contain Olmesartan alone, while others combine it with additional ingredients to provide multi-action support for arterial health.

Safety overview for Olmesartan

What to check before using this medicine

Review your medical history regarding kidney function, liver health, and electrolyte status. Inform a provider about any pre-existing conditions that might impact blood pressure regulation.

Possible reactions and tolerability

Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fatigue may occur, particularly when first starting. Monitor your response to the medication, especially when rising quickly from a seated or lying position.

Interactions and health factors

Avoid combining this medication with certain salt substitutes or other treatments that impact potassium levels. Product labelling and verified clinical sources remain the correct references for specific contraindications, interactions and reactions.

What the sources say

  • Olmesartan is indicated for hypertension in adults and children aged six years and older, alone or with other antihypertensive agents. Lowering blood pressure reduces the risk of fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular events, mainly strokes and heart attacks. (DailyMed)
  • Olmesartan can cause fetal harm when given to a pregnant woman. Use of drugs that act on the renin-angiotensin system during the second and third trimesters reduces fetal kidney function and increases fetal and neonatal morbidity and death. (DailyMed)
  • When pregnancy is detected, the label says to discontinue olmesartan as soon as possible. (DailyMed)

Further reading

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