Benicar (Olmesartan Medoxomil)

Do's 

• Take Benicar once daily as directed by your healthcare provider, with or without food. 
• Shake the bottle well before each dose if using the liquid form. 
• Measure the dose carefully using a special measuring device/spoon if using the liquid form. 
• Take Benicar at least 4 hours before the drugs to lower cholesterol, such as bile acid-binding resins. 
• Use Benicar regularly at the same time each day to obtain the most benefit. 
• Continue taking the medication even if feeling well, as people with high blood pressure do not feel sick, so it's essential to maintain the prescribed regimen. 

Don’ts 

• Don't use a household spoon to measure the dose of Benicar. 

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. 

Common Side Effects:

• Dizziness
• Diarrhea
• Back pain
• Dry mouth
• Weakness or heaviness of the legs
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle cramps or spasms
• Muscle pain or stiffness

Serious Side Effects:

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Chest pain
• Spinning sensation (vertigo)
• Cough
• High blood potassium (hyperkalemia)
• Kidney failure
• Muscle tissue breakdown (rhabdomyolysis)
• Severe diarrhea and weight loss
• High potassium level - nausea, weakness, tingly feeling, chest pain, irregular heartbeats, loss of movement
• Signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine)
• Allergic reaction symptoms: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing

Inform your healthcare provider if you experience any of these side effects and seek medical attention promptly.

Benicar should not be used during pregnancy, especially during the second and third trimesters, as it can cause injury or death to the unborn baby. If pregnancy is detected, discontinue the use of Benicar as soon as possible and consult with a healthcare provider.

Discuss the risks and benefits of using Benicar with a healthcare provider if planning to become pregnant or if pregnancy is suspected while using the medication.

Individuals who are allergic to olmesartan should not take Benicar. Inform your healthcare provider about any allergies and discuss potential interactions with other medications, especially those containing aliskiren, if you have diabetes.

Benicar is used to treat high blood pressure in adults and children at least 6 years old. The dosage for pediatric patients is based on weight, and the dose may need to be adjusted if the child gains or loses weight.

For patients with possible depletion of intravascular volume, such as those treated with diuretics or with impaired renal function, Benicar should be administered under close medical supervision and consider using a lower starting dose.

Benicar can cause a condition that results in the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, leading to kidney failure. Contact a healthcare provider immediately if experiencing unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, especially if accompanied by fever, unusual tiredness, or dark-colored urine.

Continue taking Benicar as directed, even if blood pressure improves, as skipping doses or not taking the medication may cause blood pressure to rise again.

Adhere to these warnings and precautions and consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance regarding the use of Benicar.