Olmesartan is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high blood pressure in adults and children 6 years of age and older. Olmesartan is in a class of medications called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. It works by blocking the action of certain natural substances that tighten the blood vessels, allowing the blood to flow more smoothly and the heart to pump more efficiently.High blood pressure is a common condition and when not treated, can cause damage to the brain, heart, blood vessels, kidneys and other parts of the body. Damage to these organs may cause heart disease, a heart attack, heart failure, stroke, kidney failure, loss of vision, and other problems. In addition to taking medication, making lifestyle changes will also help to control your blood pressure. These changes include eating a diet that is low in fat and salt, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising at least 30 minutes most days, not smoking, and using alcohol in moderation.

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 at 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. If your child can not swallow a tablet, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. The pharmacist can prepare a liquid form of this medication for your child. In addition to taking this medicine, treatment for your high blood pressure may include weight control and a change in the foods you eat, especially foods high in sodium. Your doctor will tell you which of these are most important for you. You should check with your doctor before changing your diet.

Before taking olmesartan,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to olmesartan, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in olmesartan tablets. Ask your pharmacist for a list of the ingredients.
• tell your doctor if you have diabetes (high blood sugar) and are taking aliskiren (Tekturna, in Amturnide, Tekamlo, Tekturna HCT, Valturna). Your doctor will probably tell you not to take olmesartan if you have diabetes and are also taking aliskiren.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart failure, or kidney or liver disease.
• tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding.
• you should know that olmesartan may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting when you get up too quickly from a lying position
• you should know that diarrhea, vomiting, not drinking enough fluids, and sweating a lot can cause a drop in blood pressure, which may cause lightheadedness and fainting

Dizziness or lightheadedness may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. To reduce the risk of diziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because they have 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: fainting, symptoms of a high potassium blood level (such as muscle weakness, slow/irregular heartbeat), signs of kidny problems, severe diarrhea.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is very rare. However, get medical help right away if you notive any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, includingL rash/itching/swelling of the tongue/face/throat, severe diziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Q: What is this medicine?

A:The generic alternative is called Olmesartan and its used to treat high blood pressure

Q: What may interact with this medicine?

A: Benicar can interact with:

• blood pressure medicines
• diuretics, especially triamterene, spironolactone or amiloride
• potassium salts or potassium supplements

Q: What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

A: They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• if you are on a special diet, such as a low-salt diet
• kidney or liver disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to olmesartan, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

Q: How should I use this medicine?

A: Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. This medicine can be taken with or without food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.