Product Description Guide: Benicar (Olmesartan Medoxomil)
What is Benicar used for
Benicar (olmesartan medoxomil) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes. It works by relaxing blood vessels to allow smoother blood flow.
Benicar 20mg / 40mg Tablets
(Generic Name: Olmesartan Medoxomil)

Olmesartan Medoxomil
Generic: Olmesartan

Brand Names: Benicar (US), Olmetec (Australia), Olsar, Olvance (India), Votum (Europe)

Drug Class: Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB)
Olmesartan medoxomil is a prodrug that is converted to its active form after ingestion. It blocks the binding of angiotensin II to the AT1 receptor in vascular smooth muscle. This prevents vasoconstriction and aldosterone secretion, resulting in vasodilation, reduced blood pressure, and decreased cardiac workload.
Primary: Treatment of essential hypertension in adults and children over 6 years.

Secondary: Cardiovascular risk reduction (e.g. reducing stroke and heart attack risks)

May be used as monotherapy or in combination with other antihypertensives such as hydrochlorothiazide.
Patient Type Recommended Dose Maximum Dose
Adults 20 mg once daily 40 mg once daily
Children (≥6 yrs) Weight-based Up to 40 mg daily

Can be taken with or without food.

Dosage adjustment may be needed in renal impairment or volume-depleted patients.

Regular blood pressure monitoring is essential.
Prescription-only medicine (Schedule 4 in Australia)

Dispensed only on valid medical prescription

Not recommended for pregnancy due to risk of fetal harm
Dizziness, fatigue

Headache

Back pain

Increased uric acid levels

Hypotension (especially in volume-depleted patients)
Sprue-like enteropathy (chronic diarrhea and weight loss)

Elevated potassium (hyperkalemia)

Kidney function deterioration

Severe allergic reactions (rare)
Pregnancy: Category D – contraindicated during second and third trimesters

Breastfeeding: Not recommended
Severe renal or hepatic impairment

Volume- or salt-depleted patients (diuretic use)

Bilateral renal artery stenosis

Avoid sudden withdrawal to prevent rebound hypertension
Potassium supplements / Potassium-sparing diuretics: Risk of hyperkalemia

NSAIDs: May reduce antihypertensive effect and worsen renal function

Lithium: Increased lithium levels and toxicity

Diuretics: Potentiated hypotensive effects
The ROADMAP Trial and ORIENT Study showed delayed onset of microalbuminuria in diabetic patients using olmesartan.

Comparative studies confirm olmesartan’s efficacy is on par with other ARBs like losartan and valsartan.

A 2012 FDA safety warning highlighted a link between olmesartan and intestinal issues, but subsequent evaluations indicated these effects are rare.
Store at room temperature (15°C – 30°C)

Protect from moisture and light

Keep out of reach of children

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is Benicar used for?
A: Benicar is prescribed to manage high blood pressure, helping prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney damage.

Q: Is Benicar safe during pregnancy?
A: No. Benicar can cause fetal injury or death and should be discontinued as soon as pregnancy is detected.

Q: Can I take Benicar with other blood pressure medicines?
A: Yes, but under medical supervision. It is often combined with diuretics or calcium channel blockers for better control.

Q: Is Benicar the same as Olmetec?
A: Yes. Olmetec is a regional brand name for olmesartan, just like Benicar. The active ingredient is the same.

Q: How long does it take for Benicar to work?
A: Blood pressure reduction can be seen within 1–2 weeks, with full effects usually observed in 4 weeks.

Q: Can I stop Benicar suddenly?
A: No. Stopping abruptly may lead to a spike in blood pressure. Consult your doctor for a proper tapering plan.
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