General Info: Uses and Effects

Benicar Generic (Olmesartan) is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) that treats hypertension (high blood pressure). Higher-than-normal blood pressure is associated with a number of complications, such as kidney diseases, heart attacks, and strokes. When taken, the drug helps relax the heart's blood vessels, allowing easy flow of blood. When the muscles of blood vessels contract due to the formation of the potent angiotensin II in the blood, they become narrow. This causes pressure within the narrowed vessels to increase to enable the proper functioning of the heart, which is to pump blood to other parts of the body.

When ARBs like Benicar Olmesartan are taken, the action of this chemical is blocked by ensuring that they don't bind with their respective receptors on the muscles around the blood vessels. This action helps the blood vessels dilate subsequently reducing the blood pressure and eventually enabling the heart to pump blood easily to avoid heart failure. Furthermore, this action helps reduce risks of possible kidney disease that may result from diabetes or hypertension.

Contraindication: Important to Know

Benicar Olmesartan should not be taken by pregnant mothers as it can cause permanent damages to the foetus or even cause miscarriage, especially after the first trimester. Discontinue the treatment as soon as you realize you are pregnant and inform your doctor on the best course of action. The drug should also not be used concurrently with other diabetes medicine containing Aliskeren.

You should let your doctor know if you have congestive heart failure, liver disease, or are dehydrated. High blood pressure can be best managed through lifestyle changes such as exercise, stress reduction, and proper diet.

Inform your pharmacist or doctor if you are allergic to Olmesartan or any other allergies that may be triggered by the medication, possibly because of active or inactive ingredients in the drug. A full disclosure of your medical history to your doctor is important, especially if you have suffered from liver disease, kidney disease, or dehydration in the past.

Avoid alcohol or marijuana when using this medicine; the two substances cause dizziness, and so does Benicar Olmesartan. Avoid engaging in activities that require high levels of focus such as driving or operating complex machinery for your own safety. Consult your doctor if you are using potassium supplements because the drug might increase its blood levels. If you are scheduled for surgery, inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking this medicine.

Instructions on Taking

Benicar Olmesartan is taken orally, once a day, with or without food, per the doctor's instruction. Your specific dose will be determined based on factors, such as medical condition, severity and your response to therapy. For the liquid form of the drug, properly shake the bottle, then use a spoon or a measuring device to get the right dose. A household spoon may not give accurate measurement for every dose. If you are taking cholesterol-lowering drugs such as Colestipol, then be sure to take Benicar Generic not less than 4 hours before taking them.

For the best effect, you are encourage to take this drug regularly. You are encouraged to come up with a routine by taking the medicine at the same time. This also helps improve absorption of the drug into the body. Don't discontinue your treatment even if you feel better. Bear in mind that most people with high blood pressure don't show any symptoms. The only way to determine if your pressure has improved is through regular testing by your doctor. In the event that there is no notable improvement, inform your doctor for guidance on what to do.

Strictly adhere to the doctor's instructions throughout the course of treatment. Don't take more or less than advised, or for longer or shorter periods. You need to watch out for side effects, such as diarrhea, vomiting, and excessive sweating.

Dosage

Take this medicine with strict adherence to the doctor's instruction. For adults, may start off with 20 mg once per day, which can be increased to a maximum 40 mg per day (divided) after sometime and based on how your body responds to treatment. Dosage for children will vary depending on their age, weight, and medical conditions. Talk to your doctor for proper dosage.

In the event of an overdose, call for emergency medical attention. Symptoms of overdose include breathing difficulties, fainting and severe dizziness. Missed doses can either be taken or skipped depending on the time you remember. However, if you miss a dose, don't try to compensate with the next one. Just resume normal dose schedule and you will be alright.

Side Effects

Side effects are bound to occur, but they vary from one person to another. While some are common but not life-threatening, others are very rare but severe. Common ones include:

• Dizziness;
• Fainting;
• Diarrhea;
• Symptoms of high levels of potassium in the blood like muscle weakness and slowed but irregular heartbeat;
• Signs of kidney disease like reduced or no urination;
• Though rare, allergic reactions may include rash, swelling of the face, throat, or tongue.;
• Trouble breathing.

The above list is not complete since there are other side effects not listed here. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist on possible adverse effects and the best ways to avoid them.

Interaction with Other Drugs

When you see a doctor, ensure that you disclose all drugs you are taking and if you are allergic to specific ingredients. This will help avoid possible interactions that affect their effectiveness and might also pose risks of side effects. Always stick to the doctor's instructions. Some of the drugs that interact with Benicar Olmesartan include lithium, Colesevelam, Aliskiren, ACE inhibitors, products that can cause heart failure or increase blood pressure, such as NSAIDs, Ibuprofen, and cough and cold drugs. There are some vitamins, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal medicines that may as well interact with Benicar. This list is not exhaustive; talk to your doctor for precise guidance on what drugs to take and what to avoid during the course of the treatment to avoid risks of drug interaction.