Benicar HCTZ (Olmesartan/Hctz)

Description

Indications

This medication is prescribed to address elevated blood pressure (hypertension) with the aim of preventing strokes, heart attacks, and kidney issues. It comprises two active ingredients: olmesartan and hydrochlorothiazide. Olmesartan, classified as an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB), functions by easing the tension in blood vessels, facilitating smoother blood flow. Hydrochlorothiazide, known as a “water pill” or diuretic, enhances urine production, aiding the body in eliminating excess salt and water.

Uses and Dosage

Take this medication orally as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily, with or without food. If increased urination occurs. Take it at least 4 hours before bedtime to minimize nocturnal interruptions.

If you are concurrently using certain cholesterol-lowering medications, ensure a time gap of at least 4 hours before or 4 to 6 hours after taking this product.

Dosage is determined by your medical condition and response to the treatment.

Consistently use this medication to maximize its benefits. Establish a routine by taking it at the same time daily. Continue even if you feel well, as high blood pressure often presents without noticeable symptoms.

Inform your doctor if your condition doesn’t improve or worsens, such as an increase in blood pressure readings.

Side Effects

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:

• back pain
• body aches or pain
• chills
• cough
• difficulty with breathing
• ear congestion or pain
• fever
• headache
• head congestion
• hoarseness or other voice changes
• loss of voice
• runny or stuffy nose
• sneezing
• sore throat

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

• bladder pain
• bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet
• bloody or cloudy urine
• blurred vision
• chest pain
• difficult, burning, or painful urination
• flushed, dry skin
• frequent urge to urinate
• fruit-like breath odor
• increased hunger
• increased urination
• joint pain, stiffness, or swelling
• lower back, side, or stomach pain
• rapid weight gain
• sweating
• swelling of the feet or lower legs
• tingling of the hands or feet
• troubled breathing
• unexplained weight loss
• unusual weight gain or loss

Caution

• Before initiating this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have to olmesartan, hydrochlorothiazide, or other substances. Inactive ingredients in the product could potentially trigger allergic reactions or other complications.
• Share your medical history, especially if you have a history of gout, kidney disease, liver disease, lupus, dehydration, a high level of potassium in the blood, or skin cancer.
• This drug may induce dizziness, and the consumption of alcohol or marijuana can exacerbate this effect. Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require alertness until you can do so safely.
• Severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting can heighten the risk of lightheadedness or dehydration. Report prolonged diarrhea or vomiting to your doctor and maintain adequate fluid intake unless advised otherwise.
• For individuals with diabetes, this medication may affect blood sugar levels. Monitor your blood sugar regularly and share the results with your doctor, who may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise regimen, or diet.
• This medication may increase sensitivity to the sun and elevate the risk of skin cancer, especially with prolonged use. Limit sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, use sunscreen, and wear protective clothing. Notify your doctor if you experience sunburn, skin blisters/redness, or observe new or changed moles/skin lesions.
• Consult your doctor before using potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium.
• Older adults may be more susceptible to side effects, particularly dizziness and changes in urine volume (indicative of kidney problems).
• Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Pregnancy should be avoided while using this product, as olmesartan may harm an unborn baby. If pregnancy occurs, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor promptly.
• The passage of olmesartan into breast milk is uncertain. Hydrochlorothiazide does pass into breast milk but is unlikely to harm a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

Form and Strength

Benicar HCTZ is available in the following forms and strengths:

• Benicar HCTZ film-coated tablet:
  • 20 / 12.5 mg
  • 20 / 25 mg
  • 40 / 12.5 mg
  • 40 / 25 mg
• hydrochlorothiazide and olmesartan tablet:
  • 20 / 12.5 mg
  • 40 / 12.5 mg
  • 40 / 25 mg

FAQ

How do I know Benicar HCTZ is working for me?

You can track how well Benicar is working for you by checking your blood pressure regularly at home.

When’s the best time to take Benicar HCTZ?

You might consider taking Benicar HCTZ in the morning or early afternoon. Because this medication contains hydrochlorothiazide (a water pill), it can make you urinate more often. To minimize getting up at night to use the bathroom, try not to take it too close to bed time.

Resources

1. https://www.goodrx.com/benicar-hct/what-is#faqs
2. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-76390/olmesartan-hydrochlorothiazide-oral/details
3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/olmesartan-and-hydrochlorothiazide-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20062432
4. https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/act-olmesartan-hct#adverseeffects
5. https://www.drugs.com/mtm/benicar-hct.html