Why is this medication
prescribed?
Olmesartan
is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high
blood pressure. Olmesartan is in a class of medications called
angiotensin II receptor antagonists. It works by blocking the action of
certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more
smoothly.
How should this medicine be
used?
Olmesartan
comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day with
or without food. To help you remember to take olmesartan, take it
around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your
prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to
explain any part you do not understand. Take olmesartan exactly as
directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than
prescribed by your doctor.
Your
doctor may start you on a low dose of olmesartan and gradually increase
your dose, not more than once every 2 weeks.
Olmesartan
controls high blood pressure but does not cure it. It may take up to 2
weeks before you feel the full benefit of olmesartan. Continue to take
olmesartan even if you feel well. Do not stop taking olmesartan without
talking to your doctor.
Other uses for this medicine
Olmesartan
is sometimes also used to treat heart failure. Talk to your doctor
about the possible risks of using this medication for your condition.
This
medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or
pharmacist for more information.
What special precautions
should I follow?
Before
taking olmesartan,
- tell your doctor and
pharmacist if you are allergic to olmesartan or any other medications.
- tell your doctor and
pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins,
nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Be sure to
mention diuretics ('water pills'). Your doctor may need to change the
doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
- tell your doctor if you have
or have ever had heart failure; kidney disease; or angioedema, a
condition that causes difficulty swallowing or breathing and painful
swelling of the the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet,
ankles, or lower legs.
- tell your doctor if you are
planning to become pregnant or are breast-feeding.
- you should know that
olmesartan may cause your blood pressure to drop too low, especially
after your first dose. Your doctor may want you to take your first dose
in his office so he can see how you react to this medication.
What special dietary
instructions should I follow?
If your
doctor prescribes a low-salt or low-sodium diet, follow these
directions carefully.
What should I do if I forget a
dose?
Take
the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost
time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular
dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
What side effects can this
medication cause?
Olmesartan
may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if this symptom is severe or
does not go away:
Some
side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but
if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately:
- swelling of the face,
throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- hoarseness
- difficulty swallowing or
breathing
Olmesartan
may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual
problems while taking this medication.
What storage conditions are
needed for this medicine?
Keep
this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of
reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess
heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that
is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the
proper disposal of your medication.
In case of emergency/overdose
In case
of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.
If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency
services at 911.
Symptoms
of overdose may include:
- fainting
- dizziness
- blurred vision
- upset stomach
- fast or slow heartbeat
What other information should
I know?
Keep
all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your blood
pressure should be checked regularly to determine your response to
olmesartan.
Do not
let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions
you have about refilling your prescription.
