High blood pressure often feels nothing like a problem until it causes one. Olmesartan is a prescription medicine that helps lower blood pressure by blocking angiotensin II receptors. That relaxes blood vessels and makes it easier for your heart to pump. People often choose olmesartan because it works well and is taken once a day.
Olmesartan (sold as Benicar and as generic olmesartan medoxomil) belongs to a class called ARBs — angiotensin receptor blockers. Typical starting dose for adults is 20 mg once daily. Depending on your response, doctors may raise it to 40 mg once daily. Some people start lower (10 mg) if they are elderly or heavily dehydrated. Always follow the exact dose your doctor prescribes; don’t split or crush long-acting tablets unless the label says it’s okay.
Take it at the same time each day, with or without food. If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it’s close to the next dose — then skip the missed one. Never double up to catch up.
Common side effects are dizziness, especially after the first dose, and mild stomach upset. A rare but serious reaction linked specifically to olmesartan is sprue-like enteropathy — long-lasting severe diarrhea and weight loss. If you have persistent diarrhea or unexplained weight loss, stop the drug and contact your doctor right away.
Olmesartan can raise potassium levels. Avoid adding potassium supplements or using salt substitutes with potassium without checking with your provider. Also watch for changes in kidney function; your doctor will likely check blood tests (creatinine and potassium) after you start or change dose.
Drug interactions to watch for: NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) can reduce how well olmesartan works and increase kidney risk, lithium levels can rise when used with ARBs, and combining olmesartan with ACE inhibitors or aliskiren raises the chance of low blood pressure, high potassium, or kidney problems. Tell your pharmacist about every medicine you take, including OTC drugs and herbal supplements.
Do not take olmesartan if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. ARBs can harm an unborn baby. If pregnancy is confirmed, stop olmesartan and call your healthcare provider.
Before starting, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease, are on dialysis, or have low blood pressure. People with severe volume depletion (from vomiting, diarrhea, or diuretics) may need dose adjustments or monitoring.
Buying: olmesartan requires a prescription. If you order medicine online, use a licensed pharmacy that asks for a prescription and lists a licensed pharmacist you can contact. Avoid sellers offering prescription drugs without paperwork.
Bottom line: Olmesartan is an effective once-daily option for lowering blood pressure. It’s generally well tolerated, but watch for severe diarrhea, changes in kidney tests, and high potassium. Check in with your doctor for dose and monitoring tailored to your health.
Looking to buy Olmesartan online? Learn how to do it safely, where to shop, tips to avoid scams, and key facts about this hypertension medication.
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