Common Use

Benicar is part of a group of medications known as angiotensin II receptor antagonists. It is used to manage high blood pressure in adults and children aged 6 and older. While it does not cure high blood pressure, it helps prevent complications such as kidney damage, stroke, and heart failure. Benicar may be prescribed alone or in combination with other blood pressure medications.

Dosage and Direction

Take Benicar exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Consume it at regular intervals and avoid taking larger doses or using it longer than recommended. Follow the instructions on your prescription label. Your doctor may adjust your dosage for optimal results. Take the medication by mouth with a full glass of water, with or without food. Regularly monitor your blood pressure to ensure the medication is effective. Do not miss any doctor appointments. It may take up to 4 weeks for Benicar to fully control your blood pressure. Continue using it even if you feel fine, as high blood pressure often has no symptoms. Inform your surgeon if you are using Benicar before any surgery, as you may need to stop it temporarily.

Precautions

Inform your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:

• Previous swelling of the tongue, face, or lips with difficulty breathing, swallowing, hoarseness, or throat tightness
• Heart failure, kidney disease, or liver disease
• You are on a special diet, such as a low-salt diet
• An allergic reaction to olmesartan, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding

Avoid alcohol, as it can lower blood pressure and increase side effects. Stay hydrated but follow your doctor's advice on fluid intake, as excessive liquid can be harmful. Avoid overheating during exercise or in hot weather.

Contraindications

Do not take Benicar if you are allergic to it. If you have kidney disease, liver disease, congestive heart failure, or are dehydrated, you may need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring. Avoid using Benicar during pregnancy, especially in the second or third trimester, as it can harm or cause death to the unborn baby. Use effective birth control while taking this medication. Do not breastfeed while on Benicar, as it is unknown if it passes into breast milk or harms the baby.

Possible Side Effects

Seek emergency medical help if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Rarely, Benicar may cause a condition resulting in muscle tissue breakdown, leading to kidney failure. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience muscle pain, tenderness, weakness, fever, nausea, vomiting, or dark urine. Other serious side effects include fainting, chest pain, changes in urination, jaundice, or dry mouth. Less serious side effects may include stomach pain, heartburn, diarrhea, joint pain, dizziness, headache, or dry cough. This is not a complete list of side effects.

Drug Interactions

Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking. Also, disclose if you consume caffeine, alcohol, smoke, or use illegal drugs, as these can affect how Benicar works. Always consult your doctor before starting or stopping any medications.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.

Overdose

Seek emergency medical attention if you suspect an overdose. Symptoms may include fast or slow heartbeat, light-headedness, or fainting.

Storage

Store Benicar at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Disclaimer

The information provided here is general and does not cover all directions, drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Always consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions tailored to your condition. We disclaim responsibility for the reliability of this information or any errors it may contain. We are not liable for any direct, indirect, or consequential damages resulting from the use of this information or self-treatment.