According to the American Heart Association, 74.5 million adults in the United States are diagnosed with high blood pressure. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a serious condition that can lead to a heart attack or stroke, congestive heart failure or kidney damage. Lifestyle changes, such as increased physical activity and a healthy diet, along with medications can help in achieving and maintaining healthy blood pressure. Benicar HCT is one medication used in the treatment of hypertension.
Indications
Benicar HCT is indicated for the treatment of high blood pressure. It is a combination of two active ingredients, olmesartan and hydrochlorothiazide. Olmesartan belongs to a group of drugs called angiotensin II receptor antagonists and can be used alone or in combination with other blood pressure-lowering drugs, according to PubMed Health. It works by preventing certain chemicals in the body from narrowing or tightening blood vessels, thereby increasing blood flow and lowering blood pressure. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic, or water pill, that rids the body of excess water and salt.
Side Effects
Side effects can occur while taking Benicar HCT. Call a doctor immediately in the event of any of the following serious side effects: swelling of the face, throat or extremities; decreased urine output or none at all; chest pain or increased heart rate. More common and less serious side effects include nausea and diarrhea, dizziness and weakness. Joint, muscle, back and stomach pain may also occur, according to drugs.com.
Dosage and Administration
Benicar, a version of the medication without the diuretic, and Benicar HCT are available in tablet form to be taken by mouth with a full glass of water. Benicar HCT can be administered with or without food and should be taken at the same time each day. It may take up to four weeks to experience the full benefit of the drug and dosage adjustments may be needed. Blood pressure will be checked on a regular basis to determine if the medication is controlling blood pressure.
Warning
Benicar should not be used by pregnant women, and a woman who becomes pregnant should stop taking the medication immediately. Benicar HCT is classified under the United States Food and Drug Administration pregnancy category D. It may cause injury or death to a baby if taken during the second or third trimester. It is also recommended patients avoid alcohol while taking Benicar HCT because it can further lower blood pressure or increase the side effects of the drug. Potassium and salt supplements should not be taken unless a doctor says it is safe to do so, according to rxlist.com.
Precautions
Before taking Benicar HCT, an individual should speak with a doctor if he is allergic to any of its ingredients or to angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. He should also inform his doctor if he has a history of kidney or liver disease, or congestive heart failure, or is currently dehydrated, according to drugs.com. High blood pressure often has no symptoms, so it is important to keep using Benicar regularly and as prescribed---even if feeling well.
