Azor (Amlodipine/Olmesartan)

Do’s

• Take Azor exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, usually once daily, with or without food.
• Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully regarding dosage. They may start you low and gradually increase the dose to minimize side effects.
• If you take other cholesterol-lowering medications (bile acid-binding resins), take Azor at least 4 hours apart from them.
• Take Azor consistently, ideally at the same time each day, to maintain a steady level of medication in your body.
• Continue taking Azor even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms, and Azor helps control it for long-term health.
• Tell your healthcare provider if your condition doesn't improve or worsens (blood pressure readings remain high or increase).

Don'ts

• Don't take more or less Azor than prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Don't take Azor with other cholesterol-lowering medications (bile acid-binding resins) within 4 hours of each other.
• Don't stop taking Azor abruptly. Talk to your healthcare provider about tapering the dose if needed.

Common side effects of Azor may include:

• Swelling
• Flushing
• Palpitations (a pounding or racing heartbeat)
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Nausea

Serious side effects of Azor are rare but may include:

• Allergic reactions: Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Worsening chest pain
• Pale skin, feeling light-headed, or shortness of breath
• Signs of kidney problems, such as changes in the amount of urine
• Symptoms of a high potassium blood level, such as muscle weakness or slow/irregular heartbeat

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Azor,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Before taking Azor, inform your healthcare provider about any allergies to amlodipine, olmesartan, or other medications.

Tell your healthcare provider about pre-existing conditions: Discuss any past medical history, especially:

• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Aortic stenosis (heart valve condition)
• Dehydration
• High blood potassium levels

Avoid activities requiring alertness. Azor may cause dizziness. Don't drive, operate machinery, or do anything requiring alertness until you feel normal. Limit alcohol and marijuana use which can worsen dizziness.

Severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting can lead to dehydration and dizziness. Inform your healthcare provider if you experience these and drink plenty of fluids unless advised otherwise.

Azor may increase your potassium levels. Consult your healthcare provider before using potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium.

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications. Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you take (including Azor) before undergoing surgery.

Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects like dizziness and changes in urination (kidney problems).

Azor can harm an unborn baby. Do not get pregnant while using this medication. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

It is unknown if olmesartan passes into breast milk, but amlodipine does. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding to determine if it's safe.