Benicar, or almesartan medoxomil, is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). The most serious side effect involves the cardiovascular system. Before beginning Benicar medication therapy, a patient should be instructed in the proper method of taking their blood pressure and heart rate. The patient should take these assessments every morning before rising.
Cardiovascular Side Effects
Hypotension (low blood pressure) is the most common side effect experienced with Benicar. A patient may feel light-headed, experience syncope (fainting) and feel dizzy. Tachycardia (fast heart rate) or bradycardia (slow heart rate) may also develop. According to Mosby's Nurse's Drug Handbook, persons taking other medication to control their blood pressure should be advised of the importance of taking their blood pressure before taking the medication. A patient should speak with their doctor about the parameters for taking the medication. Patients taking a diuretic for hypertension should be especially careful while taking Benicar until the cumulative effects on blood pressure are known.
Metabolic Side Effects
An increase in lipid levels has been reported with Benicar therapy. Persons at risk for cardiovascular disease should have their lipid profiles done before initiating Benicar medication. It may be necessary to modify a diet and exercise program to offset changes in lipid levels or begin a different medication to offset Benicar's side effects. The PDR Nurse's Drug Handbook states that an increase in blood sugar levels has also been experienced with Benicar. Patients routinely monitoring their blood sugar levels should discuss any persistent changes in sugar levels with their doctor, as a change in medication may be warranted.
Central Nervous System Side Effects
Benicar has been known to increase the frequency of headaches, primarily attributed to changes in blood pressure. Should a patient experience a persistent headache that does not respond to an over-the-counter remedy for headache, they should take their blood pressure to rule out a hypertensive condition.
Other Side Effects
Patients taking Benicar have reported an increase in the incidence of bronchitis and upper respiratory infections
Some patients have complained of experiencing diarrhea more often while on Benicar.
Sore throat, nasal congestion, sinus infections and a general feeling of flu or cold-like symptoms are common while taking Benicar.
Some patients may notice blood in their urine. This side effect should be reported to the doctor to rule out a more serious condition.
Benicar has been shown to affect patients' red blood count by lowering hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. Should a person feel more tired or sleepy, have trouble concentrating or feel chilled, they may be anemic. These symptoms should be discussed with a physician.
References
- "PDR Nurse's Drug Handbook 2010"; Thomson Reuters and Alexander Ivy; 2009
- "Mosby's 2010 Nursing Drug Reference"; Linda Skidmore-Roth; 2009
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