What is Benicar?
Benicar is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (sometimes referred to as an ARB). Olmesartan helps prevent blood vessels from shrinking, which reduces blood pressure and enhances the flow of blood. Benicar is a medication used as a treatment for high blood pressure (hypertension) among adults as well as children who are 6 years of age or older. Benicar can be prescribed along with blood pressure medicines.
Warnings
Avoid using it when you are pregnant. Stop taking Benicar and inform your doctor as soon as possible if you find yourself pregnant. Olmesartan can cause injury or even death to an unborn baby if you take the medication during your third or second trimester. If you suffer from diabetes, be sure not to use Benicar alongside any medicine that has the ingredient aliskiren (a blood pressure medication whose brand names are Amturnide, Tekturna, and Tekamlo).
Before you take this drug
You shouldn't use Benicar if you are allergic to olmesartan.If you suffer from diabetes, avoid using Benicar along with any other medication that contains Aliskiren (a blood pressure medication). It may be necessary to stay clear of taking Benicar with Aliskiren when you suffer from renal disease.
To ensure that Benicar is suitable for you, inform your physician if you suffer from:
- A heart condition that is not being treated by Benicar.
- kidney disease kidney disease.
- If you're on a diet low in salt.
Don't use it if you are expecting. Stop taking the medication and inform your doctor immediately if you find yourself pregnant. Olmesartan can cause injury or even death to an unborn child if you take the medicine in the second or third trimester.
If you're planning to have a baby, ask your doctor for a safe medication to take prior to or during the pregnancy. High blood pressure during pregnancy can cause problems for both the mother and the infant. You shouldn't use this medicine while breastfeeding.
How to take Benicar?
Use Benicar according to the prescription given by your physician. Follow the instructions on the prescription label and review all medication guides and instruction sheets. The doctor might change the dosage of your medication. You can consume Benicar in combination with food or not. For children who are unable to take a tablet in its entirety, the pharmacist may mix the tablet into a liquid. Make sure to shake off your liquid prior to measuring the amount. Make use of the dosing syringe supplied or a dose-measuring device (not the kitchen spoon).
Olmesartan dosages are based on weight gain in teenagers and children. Your child's dosage requirements could be altered if your child grows or sheds pounds. Contact your physician if you are suffering from diarrhea or have more sweating than usual. It is possible to become dehydrated when you take Benicar. It can take as long as two weeks before your blood pressure gets under control. Use this medicine according to the directions, even if you do not feel healthy. High blood pressure is often accompanied by no signs. You could need to take blood pressure medications throughout your life. Treatment options consist of exercise, diet, and lowering cholesterol levels, as well as not smoking and preventing diabetes. Your blood pressure needs to be checked regularly. The kidneys may also require a check.Keep the tablet at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.Keep the fluid in the fridge. Get rid of any liquid left after four weeks.
Details on dosage
Usual Adult Dose for Hypertension:
20 mg taken orally every day. It is possible to increase the dose up to 40 mg over two weeks if lower blood pressure is required.
The maximum dosage is 40 mg taken orally, at least once per day.
Comments: For patients who could experience intravascular volume loss (e.g., patients who are treated with diuretics, particularly those who have impaired kidney function), start this medication under strict supervision and consider an initial dose that is lower.
Twice-daily doses offer no added benefit over the daily dose.
Usual Pediatric Dose for Hypertension:
From 6 to 16 years: From -20 to 35 kg: 10 mg orally every day; can increase dosage up to 20 mg over two weeks if additional blood pressure reduction is required.
-35 kg or greater, 20 mg once per day. It is possible to increase the dose to 40 mg after two weeks if more blood pressure reduction is required.
Comments: If a child is unable to take tablets in their mouths, this dosage is available as an oral suspension made in a hurry.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Do not take the medicine for as long as you are able, but do not take your missed dose if you are nearing the time to take the next dose. Don't take two doses at a time.
What happens if I overdose?
Get medical attention in an emergency or contact the Poison Help line toll-free at 1-800-222-1222.
Overdose symptoms can include fast heartbeats or fainting.
What should be avoided?
Don't take salt substitutes or potassium supplements unless your physician has instructed you to. Be careful not to get up too quickly from a lying or sitting position, as you could be dizzy.
Side effects of Benicar
See a doctor immediately. If you are experiencing symptoms of an allergic reaction to Benicar, such as hives, breathing difficulties, or swelling of your lips, face, and tongue.
See your doctor right away. If you are suffering from:
- A feeling of lightheadedness, as if you're passing out.
- Very little or no urine.
- Excessive diarrhea or the loss of weight severe diarrhea and weight loss.
- High potassium levels nausea, weakness, and tingling sensations chest discomfort, irregular heartbeats decreased movement.
Adverse Effects:
- Dizziness.
This isn't a complete list of possible side effects, and other side effects could be present. Consult your physician to seek medical advice on the effects. You may report any adverse reactions to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Interaction with other drugs?
If you are taking colesevelam, then you should take your Benicar dose at least 4 hours prior to taking colesevelam.
Tell your doctor about any medications, including:
- Lithium.
- Diuretic (water pills) or any other medication that reduces blood pressure.
- These are NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines) such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), celecoxib, diclofenac, indomethacin, meloxicam, and a few others.
This list isn't complete. Other medications can interact with olmesartan. This covers prescription and OTC medications, vitamins, and herbal products. There are many possible interactions between drugs, which are listed here.
