Benicar is the brand name for olmesartan medoxomil, a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure. According to Drugs.com, an online drug reference, Benicar helps relax and expand blood vessels causing the blood pressure to drop. Benicar may be used alone or in combination with other medications to help lower blood pressure. Drugs.com states that Benicar is not a cure for hypertension, but a means of keeping blood pressure within a safe range.
Availability
Benicar comes in two forms: Benicar and Benicar HCT. Benicar HCT is a combination medication that combines Benicar and the diuretic component hydrochlorothiazide, which helps remove extra fluid from the body. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration lists the strengths of Benicar tablets as 5mg, 20mg and 40mg.
Dosage
Drugs.com states that Benicar should be taken on a daily basis in order to see results. The medication should be taken at approximately the same time each day and can be taken with or without food. If a dose is skipped, take it as soon as possible. If it is close to the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to the regular schedule. Do not take more than two doses in a 24-hour period.
Side Effects
Possible side effects of Benicar are dizziness, nausea, upper respiratory infection and gout. The most common side effect of Benicar is dizziness. The diuretic in Benicar HCT can lower electrolyte levels in the blood which Drugs.com states can cause dry mouth, weakness, a sluggish feeling, drowsiness, restlessness, cramps, confusion, seizures, fast heart rate and decreased urination.
Warnings
According to Benicar's patient safety information, this drug should not be used during pregnancy. Patients with kidney disease, inability to urinate or sensitivities to sulfa-derived medications should not take Benicar HCT. Drugs.com advises patients that this medication can drop the blood pressure significantly. Light-headedness, dizziness and a fainting feeling are symptoms of low blood pressure. These problems may require a dosage change by a physician. Dehydration caused by sweating, diarrhea or vomiting may lower the blood pressure due to the decrease in the body's fluids. If dehydration occurs, the patient should notify a health care provider.
Federal Approval
Benicar is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of high blood pressure in adults and children age 6 to 16 years old.
