Benicar (olmesartan medoxomil) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) prescription medication specifically formulated for the management of hypertension in adults. By selectively blocking the action of angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor, Benicar helps relax blood vessels, thereby reducing high blood pressure and decreasing the overall strain on the cardiovascular system. This targeted mechanism supports long-term vascular health and is a cornerstone in modern antihypertensive therapy, often prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include lifestyle modifications.

Features

• Active ingredient: Olmesartan medoxomil
• Drug class: Angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB)
• Available in tablet form: 5 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg strengths
• Once-daily oral administration
• Bioavailability: Approximately 26%
• Peak plasma concentration: Reached within 1–2 hours post-dose
• Half-life: Approximately 13 hours
• Primarily excreted via feces (35–50%) and urine (10–15%)

Benefits

• Provides consistent 24-hour blood pressure control with single daily dosing
• Reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure effectively
• Lowers risk of stroke, heart attack, and kidney damage associated with hypertension
• Generally well-tolerated with a favorable side effect profile
• Does not usually require dosage titration for efficacy
• May be used as monotherapy or in combination with other antihypertensive agents

Common use

Benicar is indicated for the treatment of hypertension in adult patients. It may be used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents such as diuretics or calcium channel blockers. The medication is not indicated for initial therapy in severe hypertension or for use in pediatric populations. Clinical studies have demonstrated its effectiveness across various demographic groups, including elderly patients and those with mild to moderate renal impairment (with appropriate monitoring).

Dosage and direction

The recommended starting dose of Benicar is 20 mg taken orally once daily. For patients requiring further blood pressure reduction, the dosage may be increased to 40 mg after two weeks of therapy. Doses above 40 mg daily do not provide substantially increased efficacy. For patients with possible depletion of intravascular volume (such as those on high-dose diuretics), consider initiating therapy at 5 mg once daily. Benicar may be taken with or without food. Tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. Dosage adjustments may be necessary for patients with hepatic impairment.

Precautions

• Monitor renal function periodically, especially in patients with renal artery stenosis
• Assess serum potassium levels in patients at risk for hyperkalemia
• Use caution in patients with severe congestive heart failure
• Not recommended during pregnancy due to potential fetal harm
• May cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially during initial therapy
• Avoid use in patients with biliary obstruction
• Elderly patients may experience greater sensitivity to the hypotensive effects
• Volume-depleted patients may experience symptomatic hypotension

Contraindications

• Hypersensitivity to olmesartan medoxomil or any component of the formulation
• Concomitant use with aliskiren in patients with diabetes
• Pregnancy (second and third trimesters)
• Severe hepatic impairment
• Bilateral renal artery stenosis or stenosis to a solitary kidney
• History of angioedema related to previous ARB or ACE inhibitor therapy

Possible side effect

Most common adverse reactions (≥1%) include:

• Dizziness (3%)
• Upper respiratory infection (2%)
• Bronchitis (1%)
• Pharyngitis (1%)
• Rhinitis (1%)
• Diarrhea (1%)
• Arthralgia (1%)
• Rash (1%)
• Hematuria (1%)
• Hypertriglyceridemia (1%)

Less common but serious side effects may include:

• Angioedema (face, lips, throat, tongue)
• Severe hypotension
• Impaired renal function
• Hyperkalemia
• Sprue-like enteropathy (rare but serious gastrointestinal condition)

Drug interaction

• Potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics: Increased risk of hyperkalemia
• NSAIDs: May reduce antihypertensive effect and worsen renal function
• Lithium: Increased lithium concentrations and toxicity risk
• Other antihypertensive agents: Additive blood pressure lowering effects
• Colesevelam: Reduced systemic exposure to olmesartan
• ACE inhibitors: Increased risk of renal impairment, hyperkalemia, and hypotension
• Alcohol: Potentiation of orthostatic hypotension

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered on the same day. If it is near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Maintain consistent dosing timing for optimal blood pressure control.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include hypotension and tachycardia. Bradycardia could occur with parasympathetic (vagal) stimulation. If overdose occurs, implement supportive measures with frequent monitoring of vital signs and electrolyte balance. Olmesartan is not significantly removed by hemodialysis. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive, with particular attention to maintaining adequate fluid volume and blood pressure.

Storage

Store at room temperature (20–25°C or 68–77°F) in the original container. Protect from light and moisture. Keep tightly closed and out of reach of children. Do not use if the blister pack is damaged or tablets show signs of deterioration. Discard any unused medication appropriately according to local regulations.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Benicar is available by prescription only and should be used under appropriate medical supervision. Individual response to medication may vary. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication. Do not share prescription medications with others.

Reviews

Clinical trials demonstrate Benicar’s efficacy in blood pressure reduction, with study participants showing mean reductions of 10-15 mmHg systolic and 6-8 mmHg diastolic pressure at the 20 mg dose. The medication maintains consistent antihypertensive effect throughout the 24-hour dosing interval. Real-world evidence supports its tolerability profile, though rare cases of sprue-like enteropathy have been reported in post-marketing surveillance. Patient satisfaction surveys indicate high adherence rates due to once-daily dosing and generally mild side effect profile compared to other antihypertensive classes.