Dosing & Uses
Dosage Forms & Strengths
tablet
- 5mg
- 20mg
- 40mg
Hypertension
20 mg/day PO initially; may be increased to 40 mg/day PO after 2 weeks; a diuretic may be added
Dosing Modifications
Renal impairment
- CrCl ≥40 mL/min: No adjustment needed
- CrCl 20 mL/min to <40 mL/min: No initial adjustment necessary
- CrCl<20 mL/min: Consider lower initial dose and dose not to exceed 20 mg/day
Hepatic impairment
- Mild impairment: Dose adjustment not necessary
- Moderate to severe: Initial dose adjustment not necessary; drug exposure may increase 60% in moderate impairment
Dosing Considerations
Volume-depleted patients: Consider lower initial dosage
Also given in combination with hydrochlorothiazide (Benicar HCT)
Dosage Forms & Strengths
tablet
- 5mg
- 20mg
- 40mg
Hypertension
<6 years
- Safety and efficacy not established (see Cautions)
6-16 years
- <20 kg: Safety and efficacy not established
- 20-35 kg: 10 mg/day PO initially; after 2 weeks, may be increased if response is inadequate; dosage range: 10-20 mg/day
- >35 kg: 20 mg/day PO initially; after 2 weeks, may be increased if response is inadequate; dosage range: 20-40 mg/day; not to exceed 40 mg/day
A lower starting dosage may be used
Hypertension
5-10 mg/day PO initially; may be increased to 40 mg/day PO after 2 weeks (with monitoring of blood pressure); a diuretic may be added
Interactions
Interaction Checker
No Results
Contraindicated
Serious - Use Alternative
Significant - Monitor Closely
Minor
Contraindicated (2)
- aliskiren
olmesartan decreases effects of aliskiren by Other (see comment). Contraindicated. Comment: Aliskiren use contraindicated with ARBs in patients with diabetes; avoid coadministration with ARBs if GFR. In patients who are elderly, volume-depleted (including those on diuretic therapy), or with compromised renal function, coadministration of ARBS with drugs that affect RAAS may increase the risk of renal impairment (including acute renal failure) and cause loss of antihypertensive effect. Monitor renal function periodically.
- sparsentan
sparsentan, olmesartan. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Contraindicated. Coadministration of ARBs with sparsentan is associated with increased risks of hypotension, syncope, hyperkalemia, and changes in renal function (eg, acute renal failure).
Serious - Use Alternative (15)
- benazepril
olmesartan, benazepril. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Dual blockade of renin-angiotensin system increases risks of hypotension, hyperkalemia, and renal impairment.
- captopril
olmesartan, captopril. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Dual blockade of renin-angiotensin system increases risks of hypotension, hyperkalemia, and renal impairment.
- enalapril
olmesartan, enalapril. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Dual blockade of renin-angiotensin system increases risks of hypotension, hyperkalemia, and renal impairment.
- fosinopril
olmesartan, fosinopril. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Dual blockade of renin-angiotensin system increases risks of hypotension, hyperkalemia, and renal impairment.
- leniolisib
leniolisib will increase the level or effect of olmesartan by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Leniolisib, an OATP1B1 and OATP1B3 inhibitor, may increase systemic exposure of these substrates
- lisinopril
olmesartan, lisinopril. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Dual blockade of renin-angiotensin system increases risks of hypotension, hyperkalemia, and renal impairment.
- lithium
olmesartan increases toxicity of lithium by decreasing renal clearance. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- lofexidine
lofexidine, olmesartan. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Avoid coadministration with other drugs that decrease pulse or blood pressure to mitigate risk of excessive bradycardia and hypotension.
- moexipril
olmesartan, moexipril. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Dual blockade of renin-angiotensin system increases risks of hypotension, hyperkalemia, and renal impairment.
- perindopril
olmesartan, perindopril. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Dual blockade of renin-angiotensin system increases risks of hypotension, hyperkalemia, and renal impairment.
- potassium phosphates, IV
olmesartan and potassium phosphates, IV both increase serum potassium. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.
- quinapril
olmesartan, quinapril. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Dual blockade of renin-angiotensin system increases risks of hypotension, hyperkalemia, and renal impairment.
- ramipril
olmesartan, ramipril. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Dual blockade of renin-angiotensin system increases risks of hypotension, hyperkalemia, and renal impairment.
- trandolapril
olmesartan, trandolapril. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Dual blockade of renin-angiotensin system increases risks of hypotension, hyperkalemia, and renal impairment.
- trofinetide
trofinetide will increase the level or effect of olmesartan by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Trofinetide (an OATP131 and OATP13B inhibitor) may increase plasma levels of OATP131 or OATP13B substrates. Avoid coadministration with sensitive substrates.
Monitor Closely (129)
- acebutolol
olmesartan and acebutolol both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
acebutolol, olmesartan. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of fetal compromise if given during pregnancy. - aceclofenac
olmesartan and aceclofenac both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- acemetacin
olmesartan and acemetacin both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- albiglutide
olmesartan increases effects of albiglutide by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Angiotensin II receptor antagonists may enhance hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetic agents by improving insulin sensitivity. Monitor patients for changes in glycemic control.
- aldesleukin
aldesleukin increases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of hypotension.
- amifostine
amifostine, olmesartan. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Coadministration with blood pressure lowering agents may increase the risk and severity of hypotension associated with amifostine. When amifostine is used at chemotherapeutic doses, withhold blood pressure lowering medications for 24 hr prior to amifostine; if blood pressure lowering medication cannot be withheld, do not administer amifostine.
- amiloride
olmesartan and amiloride both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- apalutamide
apalutamide will decrease the level or effect of olmesartan by increasing elimination. Use Caution/Monitor. Apalutamide weakly induces OATP1B1 and may decrease systemic exposure of drugs that are OATP1B1 substrates.
- aspirin
olmesartan and aspirin both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
aspirin decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan, aspirin. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - aspirin rectal
olmesartan and aspirin rectal both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- aspirin/citric acid/sodium bicarbonate
aspirin/citric acid/sodium bicarbonate decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan and aspirin/citric acid/sodium bicarbonate both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
olmesartan, aspirin/citric acid/sodium bicarbonate. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - atenolol
olmesartan and atenolol both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
atenolol, olmesartan. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of fetal compromise if given during pregnancy. - avanafil
avanafil increases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of hypotension.
- bendroflumethiazide
olmesartan increases and bendroflumethiazide decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.
- betaxolol
olmesartan and betaxolol both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
betaxolol, olmesartan. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of fetal compromise if given during pregnancy. - bisoprolol
olmesartan and bisoprolol both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
bisoprolol, olmesartan. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of fetal compromise if given during pregnancy. - bretylium
olmesartan, bretylium. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Each drug may cause hypotension.
- brimonidine
brimonidine increases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- bumetanide
olmesartan increases and bumetanide decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.
- canagliflozin
olmesartan and canagliflozin both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- carbenoxolone
olmesartan increases and carbenoxolone decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.
- carvedilol
olmesartan and carvedilol both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
carvedilol, olmesartan. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of fetal compromise if given during pregnancy. - celecoxib
olmesartan and celecoxib both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
celecoxib decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan, celecoxib. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - celiprolol
olmesartan and celiprolol both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
celiprolol, olmesartan. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of fetal compromise if given during pregnancy. - chlorothiazide
olmesartan increases and chlorothiazide decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.
- chlorthalidone
olmesartan increases and chlorthalidone decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.
- choline magnesium trisalicylate
olmesartan and choline magnesium trisalicylate both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
choline magnesium trisalicylate decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan, choline magnesium trisalicylate. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - colesevelam
colesevelam decreases levels of olmesartan by drug binding in GI tract. Use Caution/Monitor. Concomitant administration decreases levothyroxine absorption; however, absorption is not reduced when levothyroxine is administered 4 hr before colesevelam.
- cyclopenthiazide
olmesartan increases and cyclopenthiazide decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.
- dalteparin
dalteparin increases toxicity of olmesartan by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Low molecular weight heparins may suppress adrenal aldosterone secretion, which can potentially cause hyperkalemia.
- diclofenac
olmesartan and diclofenac both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
diclofenac decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan, diclofenac. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - diflunisal
olmesartan and diflunisal both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
diflunisal decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan, diflunisal. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - digoxin
olmesartan and digoxin both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- dopexamine
olmesartan increases and dopexamine decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.
- drospirenone
olmesartan and drospirenone both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- encorafenib
encorafenib will increase the level or effect of olmesartan by Other (see comment). Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Encorafenib (a OATP1B1 and OATP1B3 inhibitor) may increase the concentration and toxicities of OATP1B1 and OATP1B3 substrates. Closely monitor for signs and symptoms of increased exposure and consider adjusting the dose of these substrates.
- enoxaparin
enoxaparin increases toxicity of olmesartan by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Low molecular weight heparins may suppress adrenal aldosterone secretion, which can potentially cause hyperkalemia.
- eplerenone
olmesartan, eplerenone. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of hyperkalemia.
- esmolol
olmesartan and esmolol both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
esmolol, olmesartan. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of fetal compromise if given during pregnancy. - ethacrynic acid
olmesartan increases and ethacrynic acid decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.
- etodolac
olmesartan and etodolac both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
etodolac decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan, etodolac. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - exenatide injectable solution
olmesartan increases effects of exenatide injectable solution by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Angiotensin II receptor antagonists may enhance hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetic agents by improving insulin sensitivity. Monitor patients for changes in glycemic control.
- exenatide injectable suspension
olmesartan increases effects of exenatide injectable suspension by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Angiotensin II receptor antagonists may enhance hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetic agents by improving insulin sensitivity. Monitor patients for changes in glycemic control.
- fenbufen
olmesartan and fenbufen both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- fenoprofen
olmesartan and fenoprofen both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
fenoprofen decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan, fenoprofen. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - flurbiprofen
olmesartan and flurbiprofen both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
flurbiprofen decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan, flurbiprofen. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - fostemsavir
fostemsavir will increase the level or effect of olmesartan by Other (see comment). Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Fostemsavir inhibits OATP1B1/3 transporter. If possible, avoid coadministration or modify dose of OATP1B1/3 substrates coadministered with fostemsavir.
- furosemide
olmesartan increases and furosemide decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.
- gentamicin
olmesartan increases and gentamicin decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.
- glecaprevir/pibrentasvir
glecaprevir/pibrentasvir will increase the level or effect of olmesartan by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration with glecaprevir/pibrentasvir may increase plasma concentration of drugs that are substrates of OATP1B1 or OATP1B3
- heparin
heparin increases toxicity of olmesartan by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Low molecular weight heparins may suppress adrenal aldosterone secretion, which can potentially cause hyperkalemia.
- hydrochlorothiazide
olmesartan increases and hydrochlorothiazide decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.
- ibuprofen
olmesartan and ibuprofen both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
ibuprofen decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan, ibuprofen. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - ibuprofen IV
ibuprofen IV decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan and ibuprofen IV both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
olmesartan, ibuprofen IV. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - indapamide
olmesartan increases and indapamide decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.
- indomethacin
olmesartan and indomethacin both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
indomethacin decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan, indomethacin. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - insulin aspart
olmesartan increases effects of insulin aspart by unspecified interaction mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor. Concomitant use of insulin and ARBs may require insulin dosage adjustment and increased glucose monitoring.
- insulin aspart protamine/insulin aspart
olmesartan increases effects of insulin aspart protamine/insulin aspart by unspecified interaction mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor. Concomitant use of insulin and ARBs may require insulin dosage adjustment and increased glucose monitoring.
- insulin degludec
olmesartan, insulin degludec. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Both drugs decrease blood glucose.
olmesartan increases effects of insulin degludec by unspecified interaction mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor. Concomitant use of insulin and ARBs may require insulin dosage adjustment and increased glucose monitoring. - insulin degludec/insulin aspart
olmesartan, insulin degludec/insulin aspart. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Both drugs decrease blood glucose.
- insulin detemir
olmesartan increases effects of insulin detemir by unspecified interaction mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor. Concomitant use of insulin and ARBs may require insulin dosage adjustment and increased glucose monitoring.
- insulin glargine
olmesartan increases effects of insulin glargine by unspecified interaction mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor. Concomitant use of insulin and ARBs may require insulin dosage adjustment and increased glucose monitoring.
- insulin glulisine
olmesartan increases effects of insulin glulisine by unspecified interaction mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor. Concomitant use of insulin and ARBs may require insulin dosage adjustment and increased glucose monitoring.
- insulin inhaled
olmesartan, insulin inhaled. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Both drugs decrease blood glucose.
olmesartan increases effects of insulin inhaled by unspecified interaction mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor. Concomitant use of insulin and ARBs may require insulin dosage adjustment and increased glucose monitoring. - insulin isophane human/insulin regular human
olmesartan increases effects of insulin isophane human/insulin regular human by unspecified interaction mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor. Concomitant use of insulin and ARBs may require insulin dosage adjustment and increased glucose monitoring.
- insulin lispro
olmesartan increases effects of insulin lispro by unspecified interaction mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor. Concomitant use of insulin and ARBs may require insulin dosage adjustment and increased glucose monitoring.
- insulin lispro protamine/insulin lispro
olmesartan increases effects of insulin lispro protamine/insulin lispro by unspecified interaction mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor. Concomitant use of insulin and ARBs may require insulin dosage adjustment and increased glucose monitoring.
- insulin NPH
olmesartan increases effects of insulin NPH by unspecified interaction mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor. Concomitant use of insulin and ARBs may require insulin dosage adjustment and increased glucose monitoring.
- insulin regular human
olmesartan increases effects of insulin regular human by unspecified interaction mechanism. Use Caution/Monitor. Concomitant use of insulin and ARBs may require insulin dosage adjustment and increased glucose monitoring.
- ketoprofen
olmesartan and ketoprofen both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
ketoprofen decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan, ketoprofen. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - ketorolac
olmesartan and ketorolac both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
ketorolac decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan, ketorolac. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - ketorolac intranasal
olmesartan and ketorolac intranasal both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
ketorolac intranasal decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan, ketorolac intranasal. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - labetalol
olmesartan and labetalol both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
labetalol, olmesartan. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of fetal compromise if given during pregnancy. - letermovir
letermovir increases levels of olmesartan by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Letermovir, an OATP1B1/3 inhibitor may increase plasma concentrations of coadministered OATP1B1/3 substrates.
- levodopa
levodopa increases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Consider decreasing dosage of antihypertensive agent.
- liraglutide
olmesartan increases effects of liraglutide by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Angiotensin II receptor antagonists may enhance hypoglycemic effects of antidiabetic agents by improving insulin sensitivity. Monitor patients for changes in glycemic control.
- lornoxicam
olmesartan and lornoxicam both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- lurasidone
lurasidone increases effects of olmesartan by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Potential for increased risk of hypotension with concurrent use. Monitor blood pressure and adjust dose of antihypertensive agent as needed.
- maitake
maitake increases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- maraviroc
maraviroc, olmesartan. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Increased risk of orthostatic hypotension.
- meclofenamate
meclofenamate decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan and meclofenamate both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
olmesartan, meclofenamate. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - mefenamic acid
olmesartan and mefenamic acid both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
mefenamic acid decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan, mefenamic acid. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - meloxicam
olmesartan and meloxicam both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
meloxicam decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan, meloxicam. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - methyclothiazide
olmesartan increases and methyclothiazide decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor. .
- methylphenidate
methylphenidate will decrease the level or effect of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor. Methylphenidate may diminish antihypertensive effects. Monitor BP.
- methylphenidate transdermal
methylphenidate transdermal decreases effects of olmesartan by anti-hypertensive channel blocking. Use Caution/Monitor.
- metolazone
olmesartan increases and metolazone decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.
- metoprolol
olmesartan and metoprolol both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
metoprolol, olmesartan. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of fetal compromise if given during pregnancy. - nabumetone
olmesartan and nabumetone both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
nabumetone decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan, nabumetone. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - nadolol
olmesartan and nadolol both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
nadolol, olmesartan. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of fetal compromise if given during pregnancy. - naproxen
olmesartan and naproxen both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
naproxen decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan, naproxen. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - nebivolol
olmesartan and nebivolol both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
nebivolol, olmesartan. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of fetal compromise if given during pregnancy. - nitroglycerin rectal
nitroglycerin rectal, olmesartan. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Observe for possible additive hypotensive effects during concomitant use. .
- oxaprozin
olmesartan and oxaprozin both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
oxaprozin decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan, oxaprozin. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - parecoxib
olmesartan and parecoxib both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- penbutolol
olmesartan and penbutolol both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
penbutolol, olmesartan. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of fetal compromise if given during pregnancy. - pindolol
olmesartan and pindolol both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
pindolol, olmesartan. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of fetal compromise if given during pregnancy. - piroxicam
olmesartan and piroxicam both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
piroxicam decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan, piroxicam. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - potassium acid phosphate
olmesartan and potassium acid phosphate both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- potassium chloride
olmesartan and potassium chloride both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- potassium citrate
olmesartan and potassium citrate both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- potassium citrate/citric acid
olmesartan and potassium citrate/citric acid both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- potassium iodide
potassium iodide and olmesartan both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor. Potassium salts may increase the hyperkalemic effects of ARBs; the effect may be the result of aldosterone suppression in patients receiving ARBs.
- pretomanid
pretomanid will increase the level or effect of olmesartan by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Increase monitoring for drug-related adverse effects if pretomanid is coadministered with sensitive OATP1B3 substrates.
- propranolol
olmesartan and propranolol both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
propranolol, olmesartan. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of fetal compromise if given during pregnancy. - sacubitril/valsartan
olmesartan and sacubitril/valsartan both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- salicylates (non-asa)
olmesartan and salicylates (non-asa) both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- salsalate
olmesartan and salsalate both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
salsalate decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan, salsalate. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - sodium sulfate/?magnesium sulfate/potassium chloride
sodium sulfate/?magnesium sulfate/potassium chloride increases toxicity of olmesartan by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Coadministration with medications that cause fluid and electrolyte abnormalities may increase the risk of adverse events of seizure, arrhythmias, and renal impairment.
- sodium sulfate/potassium sulfate/magnesium sulfate
sodium sulfate/potassium sulfate/magnesium sulfate increases toxicity of olmesartan by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Coadministration with medications that cause fluid and electrolyte abnormalities may increase the risk of adverse events of seizure, arrhythmias, and renal impairment.
- sofosbuvir/velpatasvir
sofosbuvir/velpatasvir increases levels of olmesartan by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Velpatasvir inhibits OATP1B1, OATP1B3, and OATP2B1 transporters. .
- sotalol
olmesartan and sotalol both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
sotalol, olmesartan. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of fetal compromise if given during pregnancy. - spironolactone
olmesartan and spironolactone both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- sulfasalazine
olmesartan and sulfasalazine both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
sulfasalazine decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan, sulfasalazine. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - sulindac
olmesartan and sulindac both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
sulindac decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan, sulindac. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - synthetic human angiotensin II
olmesartan decreases effects of synthetic human angiotensin II by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- tadalafil
tadalafil increases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of hypotension.
- terbutaline
olmesartan increases and terbutaline decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.
- timolol
olmesartan and timolol both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
timolol, olmesartan. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of fetal compromise if given during pregnancy. - tizanidine
tizanidine increases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Risk of hypotension.
- tolfenamic acid
olmesartan and tolfenamic acid both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- tolmetin
olmesartan and tolmetin both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
tolmetin decreases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. NSAIDs decrease synthesis of vasodilating renal prostaglandins, and thus affect fluid homeostasis and may diminish antihypertensive effect.
olmesartan, tolmetin. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: May result in renal function deterioration, particularly in elderly or volume depleted individuals. - tolvaptan
olmesartan and tolvaptan both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
- torsemide
olmesartan increases and torsemide decreases serum potassium. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.
- treprostinil
treprostinil increases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor.
- triamterene
olmesartan and triamterene both increase serum potassium. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.
- trimethoprim
trimethoprim and olmesartan both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor. Trimethoprim decreases urinary potassium excretion. May cause hyperkalemia, particularly with high doses, renal insufficiency, or when combined with other drugs that cause hyperkalemia.
- voclosporin
voclosporin and olmesartan both increase serum potassium. Use Caution/Monitor.
voclosporin, olmesartan. Either increases toxicity of the other by nephrotoxicity and/or ototoxicity. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Coadministration with drugs associated with nephrotoxicity may increase the risk for acute and/or chronic nephrotoxicity. - xipamide
xipamide increases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor.
Minor (9)
- agrimony
agrimony increases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- cornsilk
cornsilk increases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- entecavir
olmesartan, entecavir. Either increases effects of the other by decreasing renal clearance. Minor/Significance Unknown. Coadministration with drugs that reduce renal function or compete for active tubular secretion may increase serum concentrations of either entecavir or the coadministered drug.
- noni juice
olmesartan and noni juice both increase serum potassium. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- octacosanol
octacosanol increases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- patiromer
patiromer, olmesartan. cation binding in GI tract. Minor/Significance Unknown. No observed clinically important interaction. No separation of dosing required.
- reishi
reishi increases effects of olmesartan by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
- shepherd's purse
shepherd's purse, olmesartan. Other (see comment). Minor/Significance Unknown. Comment: Theoretically, shepherd's purse may interfere with BP control.
- voclosporin
voclosporin will increase the level or effect of olmesartan by Other (see comment). Minor/Significance Unknown. Information suggests voclosporin (an OATP1B1 inhibitor) may increase in the concentration of OATP1B1 substrates is possible. Monitor for adverse reactions of OATP1B1 substrates when coadministered with voclosporin.
Adverse Effects
1-10%
Dizziness
Headache
Fatigue
Diarrhea
Hyperglycemia
Hypertriglyceridemia
Back pain
Bronchitis
Inflicted injury
Flulike symptoms
Pharyngitis
Rhinitis
Sinusitis
Upper respiratory tract infection (URTI)
Frequency Not Defined (selected)
Anaphylactic reaction
Angioedema
Facial edema
Rhabdomyolysis
Hyperkalemia
Tachycardia
Hypercholesterolemia
Gastroenteritis
Hyperlipidemia
Warnings
Black Box Warnings
Discontinue as soon as possible when pregnancy is detected; drug affects renin-angiotensin system, causing oligohydramnios, which may result in fetal injury or death
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity
Do not coadminister with aliskiren in patients with diabetes mellitus or with renal impairment (ie, GFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m²)
Cautions
Use caution in congestive heart failure (CHF), surgery or anesthesia, volume depletion (consider lower dosage)
Angioedema reported; may occur at any time during treatment, especially after first dose; risk increases in patients with idiopathic or hereditary angioedema or experiencing angioedema following ACE-inhibitor therapy; prolonged monitoring of air pathways may be necessary as reactions are associated with airway obstruction; not for administration to patients with prior history of angioedema following therapy with ARBs; discontinue therapy immediately if angioedema occurs; intramuscular administration of epinephrine may be necessary to manage angioedema
Coadministration with mTOR inhibitors (eg, temsirolimus) may increase risk for angioedema
Risk of hypotension, especially in patients with volume or salt depletion secondary to salt restriction or prolonged diuretic treatment; initiate treatment in such patients under close medical supervision and consider starting at a lower dose
Risk of hyperkalemia; monitor serum electrolytes periodically; use with caution, if at all and monitor potassium closely in patients with risk factors, including diabetes mellitus, renal dysfunction, potassium supplements and/or potassium containing salts
Use with caution in patients with unstented unilateral/bilateral renal artery stenosis; avoid therapy when unstented bilateral renal artery stenosis is present due to elevated risk of deterioration in renal function unless possible benefits outweigh risks
Renal impairment reported; may occur in patients with low renal blood flow (eg, heart failure, renal artery stenosis), whose glomerular filtration rate is dependent on efferent arteriolar vasoconstriction by angiotensin II, which may result in acute renal failure, oliguria, and progressive azotemia; discontinue therapy only in patients with progressive and/or significant deterioration in renal function
Use caution in patients with pre-existing renal insufficiency
Avoid use in patients with ascites resulting from cirrhosis or refractory ascites; monitor blood pressure and renal function closely if use cannot be avoided
Intestinal problems (ie, sprue-like enteropathy) reported; symptoms may include severe, chronic diarrhea with substantial weight loss; discontinue treatment and consider other antihypertensive therapy
Dual blockade of the renin-angiotensin system with angiotensin-receptor blockers (ARBs), angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, or aliskiren is associated with increased risk of hypotension, hyperkalemia, and altered renal function (including acute renal failure) in comparison with monotherapy; closely monitor blood pressure
Children <1 year of age must not receive olmesartan for hypertension; drugs that act directly on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system can have adverse effects on the development of immature kidneys
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy
Can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman; use of drugs that act on renin-angiotensin system during second and third trimesters of pregnancy reduces fetal renal function and increases fetal and neonatal morbidity and death
Most epidemiologic studies examining fetal abnormalities after exposure to antihypertensive use in the first trimester have not distinguished drugs affecting the renin-angiotensin system from other antihypertensive agents
Hypertension in pregnancy increases maternal risk for pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, premature delivery, and delivery complications (e.g., need for cesarean section and post-partum hemorrhage)
Hypertension increases fetal risk for intrauterine growth restriction and intrauterine death
Pregnant women with hypertension should be carefully monitored and managed accordingly
Fetal adverse reactions
- Oligohydramnios in pregnant women who use drugs affecting the renin-angiotensin system in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy can result in
- Reduced fetal renal function leading to anuria and renal failure
- Fetal lung hypoplasia, skeletal deformations, including skull hypoplasia, hypotension and death
- In patients taking drug during pregnancy, perform serial ultrasound examinations to assess the intra-amniotic environment
- Fetal testing may be appropriate, based on the week of gestation
- Patients and physicians should be aware, that oligohydramnios may not appear until after the fetus has sustained irreversible injury
- Closely observe infants with histories of in utero exposure to drug for hypotension, oliguria, and hyperkalemia
- In neonates with a history of in utero exposure to drug, if oliguria or hypotension occurs, utilize measures to maintain adequate blood pressure and renal perfusion
- Exchange transfusions or dialysis may be required as a means of reversing hypotension and supporting renal function
Animal data
- In animal reproduction studies, treatment during organogenesis resulted in increased embryofetal toxicity in rats at doses lower than maternally toxic doses
- Discontinue therapy as soon as possible when pregnancy detected; consider alternative antihypertensive therapy during pregnancy
Lactation
There is no information regarding presence of drug in human milk, effects on breastfed infant, or on milk production; drug is secreted at low concentration in milk of lactating rats; because of potential for adverse effects on nursing infant, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or discontinue drug, considering importance of drug to mother
Pregnancy Categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk. C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done. D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk. X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist. NA: Information not available.Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Blocks binding of angiotensin II to type 1 angiotensin II receptors; blocks vasoconstrictor and aldosterone-secreting effects of angiotensin II
Absorption
Bioavailability: 26%
Onset: <2 weeks
Peak response: 4-6 weeks
Duration: 24 hr
Peak plasma time: 1-2 hr
Distribution
Protein bound: 99%
Vd: 17 L; does not cross blood-brain barrier
Metabolism
Rapidly and completely deesterified to active olmesartan in intestinal wall; no further metabolism occurs
Metabolites: RNH-6270 (deesterified olmesartan; active)
Elimination
Half-life: 13 hr
Renal clearance: 0.5-0.8 L/hr
Total body clearance: 1.3 L/hr
Excretion: Bile (50-65%), urine (35-50%)
Images
| BRAND | FORM. | UNIT PRICE | PILL IMAGE |
|---|---|---|---|
| olmesartan oral - | 5 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 40 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 40 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 40 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 20 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 5 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 40 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 20 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 5 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 20 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 5 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 5 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 40 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 20 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 20 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 40 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 5 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 20 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 40 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 20 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 5 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 40 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 20 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 5 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 40 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 40 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 20 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 5 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 20 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 20 mg tablet |  | |
| olmesartan oral - | 40 mg tablet |  | |
| Benicar oral - | 40 mg tablet | | |
| Benicar oral - | 5 mg tablet |  | |
| Benicar oral - | 20 mg tablet | |
Copyright © 2010 First DataBank, Inc.
Patient Handout
olmesartan oral
OLMESARTAN - ORAL
(OL-me-SAR-tan)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Benicar
WARNING: This drug can cause serious (possibly fatal) harm to an unborn baby if used during pregnancy. It is important to prevent pregnancy while taking this medication. Consult your doctor for more details and to discuss the use of reliable forms of birth control while taking this medication. If you are planning pregnancy, become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor right away.
USES: Olmesartan is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. Olmesartan belongs to a class of drugs called angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). It works by relaxing blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily with or without food. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.If you are using the liquid form of this medication, shake the bottle well before each dose. Carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.If you also take certain drugs to lower your cholesterol (bile acid-binding resins such as cholestyramine, colesevelam, colestipol), take olmesartan at least 4 hours before any of these medications.Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Keep taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens (for example, your blood pressure readings increase).
SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness or lightheadedness may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: diarrhea that is severe or doesn't stop, fainting, symptoms of a high potassium blood level (such as muscle weakness, slow/irregular heartbeat), signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine).A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking olmesartan, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, liver disease, dehydration, high level of potassium in the blood.This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).This medication may increase your potassium levels. Before using potassium supplements or salt substitutes that contain potassium, consult your doctor or pharmacist.Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. You should not become pregnant while using olmesartan. Olmesartan may harm an unborn baby. If you become pregnant, talk to your doctor right away about the risks and benefits of this medication. (See also Warning section.)It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: See also How to Use and Precautions sections.Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.Some products that may interact with this drug include: aliskiren, lithium, drugs that may increase the level of potassium in the blood (such as sparsentan, ACE inhibitors including benazepril/lisinopril, birth control pills containing drospirenone).Some products have ingredients that could raise your blood pressure or worsen your heart failure. Tell your pharmacist what products you are using, and ask how to use them safely (especially cough-and-cold products, diet aids, or NSAIDs such as ibuprofen/naproxen).
OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe dizziness, fainting.
NOTES: Do not share this medication with others.Lifestyle changes such as stress reduction programs, exercise, and dietary changes may increase the effectiveness of this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about lifestyle changes that might benefit you.Lab and/or medical tests (such as kidney function, potassium levels) should be done while you are taking this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.Check your blood pressure regularly while taking this medication. Learn how to monitor your own blood pressure, and share the results with your doctor.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store tablets at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.Store the suspension in the refrigerator at 36-46 degrees F (2-8 degrees C). Do not freeze. Discard any unused suspension after 4 weeks.Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Information last revised March 2023. Copyright(c) 2023 First Databank, Inc.
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
Formulary
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