Indications 

Azor is a prescribed medication used to treat hypertension, either alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents. Lowering blood pressure decreases the risk of fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular events, especially strokes and myocardial infarctions. 

Azor may also be prescribed as an initial therapy for patients who are anticipated to require multiple antihypertensive agents to reach their blood pressure targets. 

Azor is composed of two active ingredients: amlodipine and olmesartan. Amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker, relaxes the heart and blood vessel muscles. Olmesartan, an angiotensin II receptor antagonist (ARB), prevents blood vessels from narrowing, lowering blood pressure and improving blood flow. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Azor and with each prescription refill, thoroughly review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Do not hesitate to ask your doctor or pharmacist for any questions or concerns. 

Azor’s dosage is determined based on the patient’s medical condition and response to treatment. To minimize the risk of adverse effects, physicians may instruct to initiate this medication at a low dose and gradually escalate it. 

Typically, Azor is taken once daily as prescribed by the doctor, without regard to food intake. 

For the best results, take this medication around the same time(s) every day. Continue taking it even if you feel fine, as individuals with high blood pressure usually do not experience symptoms. 

Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or deteriorate (if your blood pressure readings remain elevated or increase). 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the side effects associated with the use of Azor. If any of them persist or worsen, inform your doctor right away. 

Common Side Effects 

• Swelling 
• Dizziness 
• Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling) 
• Pounding heartbeats 

Serious Side Effects 

• Chest pain that is new or worsening 
• Swelling in hands or feet accompanied by rapid weight gain 
• Severe or persistent diarrhea leading to weight loss 
• Pounding heartbeats or fluttering sensation in the chest 
• Feeling lightheaded, as if about to faint 
• Signs of high potassium level: 
• Nausea 
• Weakness 
• Tingling sensations 
• Chest pain 
• Irregular heartbeats 
• Loss of movement 

Call your doctor right away if you experience any of the severe symptoms mentioned above. 

Seek immediate medical attention or contact your doctor if a new or worsening chest pain (angina) or a heart attack occurs after beginning Azor treatment. Symptoms may include: 

• Chest pain or pressure 
• Pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder 
• Nausea 
• Sweating 

Allergic Reactions 

In rare cases, Azor may cause a severe allergic reaction. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as: 

• Rash 
• Face or throat swelling 
• Severe dizziness 
• Difficulty breathing 

This list does not contain all the potential side effects of Azor. Tell your doctor if other side effects not listed above are experienced. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Azor, inform your doctor and pharmacist if you have any known hypersensitivities, especially to amlodipine, olmesartan, other medicines, or any ingredients present in Azor tablets. 

Prior to taking Azor, inform your doctor about your medical history, particularly if you have had the following: 

• Kidney disease 
• Liver disease 
• Aortic stenosis (heart valve condition) 
• Dehydration 
• High levels of potassium in the blood 

Inform your physician and pharmacist about all the medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, dietary supplements, and herbal products, to minimize the possibility of drug interactions that could impact Azor’s efficacy or raise the likelihood of adverse effects. 

 Some products that may interact with Azor include: 

• Aliskiren 
• Lithium 
• Drugs that increase the level of potassium in the blood, such as:  
  • ACE inhibitors (e.g., benazepril/lisinopril)  
  • Birth control pills containing drospirenone 

Be cautious of products that contain ingredients that may increase your blood pressure. Inform your pharmacist if you are taking cough-and-cold products, diet aids, or NSAIDs such as ibuprofen/naproxen, and ask how to use them safely. 

If you are taking medication to lower your cholesterol, such as bile acid-binding resins like cholestyramine, colesevelam, or colestipol, take Azor at least four hours before any of these drugs to avoid potential interactions. 

Azor can elevate your potassium levels. Before taking potassium supplements, or using salt substitutes containing potassium, consult your doctor or pharmacist. 

Azor may cause dizziness. Avoid activities requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you can safely do so. Rise slowly from a seated or lying position to minimize the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness. 

Excessive sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting can lead to lightheadedness. If you experience prolonged diarrhea or vomiting, notify your doctor. 

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to conceive, as Azor should not be taken during pregnancy due to the potential harm it may cause to the fetus. If you become pregnant, promptly discuss the potential risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor. 

It is uncertain if amlodipine or olmesartan are secreted in human milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding when taking this medication.