Indications 

Benicar is indicated for the management of hypertension, which is characterized by elevated blood pressure levels, and for the mitigation of the risk of cardiovascular complications such as heart failure and stroke.  

Hypertension imposes an increased workload on the heart, requiring heightened effort to distribute blood throughout the cardiovascular system. This may result in myocardial infarction, a condition of inadequate blood flow to the heart due to excessive strain, or stroke, which can occur when the heart is deprived of sufficient oxygen. 

Uses and Dosage 

Adhere to your physician’s instructions precisely when taking Benicar. Follow all guidelines on your prescription label and review all medication guides or instruction sheets thoroughly. Your doctor may periodically adjust your dosage as needed. 

Benicar may be taken with or without food. For pediatric patients who are unable to swallow tablets whole, a pharmacist can prepare the medication in liquid form. 

In children and teenagers, Olmesartan doses are weight-dependent and may need to be adjusted if the patient experiences weight changes. 

If you are experiencing vomiting, diarrhea, or profuse sweating, contact your doctor immediately, as dehydration may occur while taking Benicar. 

Blood pressure control may take up to two weeks to achieve, and patients should continue taking the medication as prescribed, even if they feel well. Hypertension often presents no symptoms. 

Patients may need to take blood pressure medication for the rest of their lives. Management may include diet, exercise, cholesterol reduction, smoking cessation, and diabetes control. Regular blood pressure and kidney function monitoring are essential. 

Side Effects 

Patients may not experience any side effects while taking this medication, or side effects may present themselves in a mild manner. In the event that side effects occur, patients should report them to their healthcare provider if they do not dissipate, are severe, or pose the risk of developing another health condition. 

Listed below are uncommon and rare side effects associated with this medication: 

Uncommon Side Effects 

• Blood in the urine 
• Body aches or pain 
• Chills 
• Cough or cough producing mucus 
• Difficulty with breathing 
• Ear congestion 
• Fever 
• Headache 
• Loss of voice 
• Runny or stuffy nose 
• Sneezing 
• Sore throat 
• Tightness in the chest 
• Unusual tiredness or weakness 

Rare Side Effects 

• Bladder pain 
• Swelling or bloating of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet 
• Chest pain 
• Cloudy urine 
• Difficult, burning, or painful urination 
• Fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse 
• Frequent urge to urinate 
• Joint pain, stiffness, or swelling 
• Lower back, side, or stomach pain 
• Swelling of the feet or lower legs 

Caution 

Prior to taking olmesartan, patients should inform their healthcare provider or pharmacist of any allergies they may have, including allergies to inactive ingredients that may be present in the medication. Patients should speak with their pharmacist for additional details. 

Disclose one’s medical history to their doctor or pharmacist before using this medication, particularly if they have a history of kidney or liver disease, dehydration, or high potassium levels in their blood. 

This medication may cause dizziness, and the use of alcohol or marijuana may exacerbate this effect. Patients should avoid driving or operating machinery until they can do so safely. They should limit their alcohol consumption and consult their doctor if they use marijuana. 

This medication may elevate potassium levels in the blood, and patients should speak with their doctor or pharmacist before using potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium. 

Patients should inform their doctor or dentist of all the products they use, including prescription drugs, non-prescription drugs, and herbal products, before undergoing surgery. 

Patients who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant should inform their healthcare provider. The use of olmesartan during pregnancy may be harmful to the developing fetus. If a patient becomes pregnant, they should speak with their doctor immediately about the risks and benefits of using this medication.