Olmesartan+amlodipine
About Olmesartan+amlodipine
Olmesartan+amlodipine belongs to the 'anti-hypertensive drugs' class used to treat high blood pressure. Hypertension or high blood pressure is a chronic condition in which the blood's force against the artery wall is high. As a result, it leads to heart disease, irregular heartbeat, and other complications.
Olmesartan+amlodipine contains Olmesartan (angiotensin receptor blocker) and Amlodipine (calcium channel blocker). Olmesartan works by blocking the hormone angiotensin, thereby relaxing blood vessels. This allows the blood to flow more smoothly and the heart to pump more efficiently. Amlodipine, on the other hand, acts by relaxing the blood vessels. This reduces the heart's workload and makes the heart more efficient at pumping blood throughout the body. Thus, collectively, both help lower high blood pressure, reducing heart attack or stroke chances.
You can take Olmesartan+amlodipine with food or without food with a glass of water. Do not chew, bite, or break it. Your doctor will advise you on how often you should take your tablets based on your medical condition. In some cases, you may experience headaches, drowsiness, ankle swelling, nausea, dizziness, and low blood pressure. Most of these side effects of Olmesartan+amlodipine do not require medical attention and gradually resolve over time. However, if the side effects are persistent, reach out to your doctor. It is advisable to drink plenty of fluids while taking Olmesartan+amlodipine.
Try not to stop taking Olmesartan+amlodipine on your own. Inform your doctor, and your dose might be gradually lowered to avoid a rise in blood pressure and increasing the risk of getting heart disease and stroke. Inform your doctor if you are suffering from kidney, liver, heart disease, or diabetes. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, please tell your doctor, as it is not recommended for use in pregnancy. It should not be given to children less than 12 years of age. In diabetic patients, it is advised not to take Aliskiren with Olmesartan+amlodipine as it may cause an increased risk of low blood pressure (hypotension) and change in kidney functions. Do not use Olmesartan+amlodipine if you have low blood pressure (hypotension) or cardiogenic shock (sudden stopping blood flow to the heart). Please tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines or are allergic to Olmesartan+amlodipine. Reducing the amount of table salt (sodium chloride) in your food often relieves the body's swelling. Grapefruit juice and St. John's wort plant should not be consumed when taking Olmesartan+amlodipine as it is contraindicated.
Uses of Olmesartan+amlodipine
Medicinal Benefits
Olmesartan+amlodipine contains Olmesartan (angiotensin receptor blocker) and Amlodipine (calcium channel blocker). Olmesartan works by blocking the hormone angiotensin, thereby relaxing blood vessels. This allows the blood to flow more smoothly and the heart to pump more efficiently. Amlodipine, on the other hand, acts by relaxing the blood vessels. This reduces the heart's workload and makes the heart more efficient at pumping blood throughout the body. Thus, both help lower high blood pressure, reducing the chances of heart attack or stroke.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Olmesartan+amlodipine
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Drowsiness
- Ankle swelling
- Low blood pressure
Drug Warnings
Olmesartan+amlodipine should not be given to people allergic to Olmesartan+amlodipine or many of its ingredients. If you have low blood pressure (less than 90 mm of Hg), have had a heart attack, kidney disease, or liver disease, are pregnant, or planning to get pregnant and breastfeeding women; do not take Olmesartan+amlodipine. Besides this, it is contraindicated in low blood pressure (hypotension), cardiogenic shock (sudden stopping of blood flow to the heart), and aortic stenosis (heart valve problem). Olmesartan+amlodipine can pass into breast milk, but its effect on the baby is unknown. So, it is better to tell your doctor if you take Olmesartan+amlodipine and breastfeeding. Grapefruit juice and St. John's wort plant should not be consumed when taking Olmesartan+amlodipine as it is contraindicated. Drinking alcohol while using Olmesartan+amlodipine can cause low blood pressure, so avoid alcoholic beverages.
Drug Interactions
Drug-Drug Interactions: Olmesartan+amlodipine may interact with high blood pressure lowering pills (aliskiren, metoprolol, ramipril, hydrochlorothiazide). These drugs may enhance potassium levels in the blood, such as ACE inhibitors (benazepril/lisinopril, birth control pills) and painkillers (ibuprofen, aspirin).
Drug-Food Interactions: Olmesartan+amlodipine may interact with grapefruit, grapefruit juices, and St. John’s wort (a plant used to treat depression). Hence it should not be taken with Olmesartan+amlodipine.
Drug-Disease Interactions: Olmesartan+amlodipine should not be given to people with cardiogenic shock (when the heart fails to pump required blood to the body), heart valve problems (stenosis), low blood pressure (hypotension), heart failure, liver or kidney diseases.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
cautionDo not consume alcohol along with Olmesartan+amlodipine to avoid unpleasant side effects.
Pregnancy
unsafeOlmesartan+amlodipine is not recommended for use in pregnancy as it may harm your foetus. Please consult your doctor.
Breast Feeding
unsafeOlmesartan+amlodipine is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers. It is excreted into milk in small amounts and is cleared slowly. It can accumulate in infants, especially newborns or preterm infants. Lactation might also be suppressed due to the effect of Olmesartan+amlodipine.
Driving
cautionDriving after taking Olmesartan+amlodipine is not recommended as it may occasionally cause drowsiness or fatigue.
Liver
cautionOlmesartan+amlodipine to be taken with caution, especially if you have a liver disease history. Your doctor may adjust the dose depending on your medical condition and your reaction to treatment.
Kidney
cautionOlmesartan+amlodipine to be taken with caution, especially if you have a history of kidney diseases/conditions. Your doctor may adjust the dose depending on your medical condition.
Children
unsafeUse of Olmesartan+amlodipine in children under 12 years of age is not recommended as the safety and efficacy of Olmesartan+amlodipine in these age groups have not yet been established.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Keep your weight under control with BMI of 19.5-24.9.
- Do regular physical activity or exercise for at least 150 minutes per week, or about 30 minutes most days of the week. Doing this can help lower your raised blood pressure by about 5 mm Hg.
- Opt for a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, veggies, and low-fat dairy products.
- Limit sodium chloride (table salt) intake in your daily diet to 2300 mg per day or less than 1500 mg is ideal for most adults.
- Quitting smoking is the best strategy to lower the risk of heart disease.
- Avoid chronic stress, as it can raise your blood pressure. Try to enjoy and spent time with your loved ones to cope with stress and practice mindfulness techniques.
- Monitor your blood pressure daily and if there is too much fluctuation, immediately contact your doctor.
- Try to include heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids containing food and drinks in your daily diet. You can also use low-fat cooking oil like olive oil, soybean oil, canola oil, and coconut oil to lower your elevated blood pressure.
Special Advise
- When pregnancy is detected, discontinue Olmesartan+amlodipine as drugs that act directly on the renin-angiotensin system can cause severe injury and even death to the developing fetus (unborn baby).
- Olmesartan+amlodipine should be taken at the same time every day for its maximum effects to be seen and for increased compliance.
- Consumption of Olmesartan+amlodipine may cause dizziness. Avoid activities like driving while on this medication.
- A sudden drop in blood pressure may be seen while on this medication, especially when you start taking it, leading to dizziness. Changing your posture at a slower rate might help counter this.
- Ankle swelling is sometimes seen as a side effect of Olmesartan+amlodipine as it contains amlodipine. Consult your doctor if this or other side effects cause trouble or are persistent.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
High blood pressure: It is the measurement of the force that our heart uses to pump blood to all parts of the body. Hypertension is a chronic condition when blood pressure is too high. This condition can lead to hardened arteries (blood vessels), decreasing the blood and oxygen flow to the heart. Raised blood pressure can cause chest pain (angina) and heart attack (when the blood supply to the heart is blocked). High blood pressure also causes brain damage (stroke) and kidney failure. High blood pressure can be diagnosed with the help of a blood pressure monitor. Systolic pressure is the pressure with which the heart pumps blood. On the other hand, diastolic pressure is when your heart is resting between heartbeats. If your blood pressure is 140/90 mm of Hg, the systolic pressure is 140 mm of Hg, and diastolic pressure is 90 mm of Hg. Ideal blood pressure should be between 90/60 mm of Hg and 120/80 mm of Hg.
FAQs
Olmesartan+amlodipine is used to treat high blood pressure, a chronic condition in which the blood's force against the artery wall is high.
Olmesartan+amlodipine relaxes the blood vessel, allows the blood to flow more smoothly and the heart to pump more efficiently. This reduces the heart's workload and makes the heart more efficient at pumping blood throughout the body.
It is not recommended that diabetic patients take Aliskiren with Olmesartan+amlodipine because it increases the risk of low blood pressure (hypotension) and changes in kidney functions.
If you have missed a dose of Olmesartan+amlodipine, you are advised to take it as soon as you remember. However, try not to miss a dose in the first place; if it's time for you to take your next dose, then do not take both the doses together. Take only one dose; taking a double dose of Olmesartan+amlodipine will lead to low blood pressure.
Inform your doctor and monitor your blood pressure for at least two weeks before stopping the medicine. Depending upon your current blood pressure readings, there is a possibility your doctor may lower your medicine dosage and not recommend discontinuing it.
Olmesartan+amlodipine can be safely taken as long as your doctor prescribes it. High blood pressure is life-long, and one should not abruptly discontinue it without discussing it with a doctor.
Olmesartan+amlodipine is restricted in people with known allergies to any of this medicine's components. It should be used with caution in people with liver impairment. It should also be avoided in women's second and third trimesters of their pregnancy.
Yes, Olmesartan+amlodipine contains amlodipine, known to cause ankle swelling upon long-term use. Please try to keep your feet up when sitting for long hours. If the problem persists still, consult your doctor and do as advised.
unlikely that Olmesartan+amlodipine affects fertility in men or women. However, there's not enough evidence to say for certain. For the best advice, consult your doctor.
High blood pressure during pregnancy is called 'Pregnancy-induced hypertension' (PIH). It is harmful to both the baby and the mother. In the mother, very high blood pressure can cause seizures (fits), headache, swelling of feet, kidney damage, and a higher risk of bleeding during pregnancy and delivery. This can also affect the baby by causing abnormal fetal heart rate, risk of stillbirth, and a small baby. So, during pregnancy, you should have regular blood pressure monitoring. Visit your Obstetrician if you have any concerns about blood pressure during pregnancy.
Before starting Olmesartan+amlodipine, it's crucial to have a thorough consultation with your doctor. Share your comprehensive medical history, including any existing conditions or past illnesses. Also, provide a detailed list of your medications, vitamins, and supplements. Inform your doctor about any medication allergies or sensitivities. Additionally, discuss your lifestyle habits, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, or recreational drug use. If you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant, be sure to disclose this information. This will enable your doctor to determine whether Olmesartan+amlodipine suits you and provide personalized care.
Take Olmesartan+amlodipine precisely as prescribed by your doctor. The typical dosage is once daily, but your doctor may adjust the frequency based on your needs. To ensure effective treatment, follow your doctor's instructions regarding the best time of day to take Olmesartan+amlodipine. This may depend on your daily routine, other medications you're taking, and your medical condition. Be sure to ask your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about when to take Olmesartan+amlodipine.
After starting Olmesartan+amlodipine, you can expect to start feeling better within 8 hours as your blood pressure begins to decrease. Within 1 week, you'll start to feel the full effects of Olmesartan, with your blood pressure lowering further. As Amlodipine reaches its full effect in 3-4 weeks, your blood vessels relax, and blood flow improves. Finally, within 2-8 weeks, you'll likely experience the maximum benefit, with your blood pressure well-controlled and any related symptoms improved, helping you feel your best.
It's important to take Olmesartan+amlodipine at the same time every day, as prescribed by your doctor. This helps maintain consistent levels of the medication in your body and ensures it works effectively. While you can take Olmesartan+amlodipine at any time of day, it's best to take it at a time that fits your daily routine.
In some cases, you may experience headaches, drowsiness, ankle swelling, nausea, dizziness, and low blood pressure. Most of these side effects of Olmesartan+amlodipine do not require medical attention and gradually resolve over time. However, if the side effects persist, contact your doctor.
While using Olmesartan+amlodipine, consider making lifestyle changes to help manage your blood pressure and overall health. Maintain a healthy weight, exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, and eat a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products. Limit your sodium intake and alcohol consumption, and quit smoking if you haven't already. Manage stress through mindfulness practices and social support, and monitor your blood pressure daily. Additionally, include omega-3-rich foods in your diet and use low-fat oils like olive, soybean, canola, and coconut oil for cooking. Remember to consult your doctor for personalized advice on making these lifestyle changes to ensure you're taking the best care of your health.
Olmesartan+amlodipine may cause weight gain in some individuals, although it is not a common side effect. This is because Amlodipine can lead to fluid retention, while Olmesartan can increase potassium levels, resulting in increased water retention and weight gain. However, the weight gain is usually minimal. If you're concerned, your doctor can help you monitor your weight, adjust your diet and exercise routine, and explore alternative medications if needed.
The serious side effects of Olmesartan+amlodipine include bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet and rapid weight gain, which occurs more commonly. Less common serious side effects include fast, irregular, pounding, or racing heartbeat or pulse, and unusual tiredness or weakness. If you experience any of these side effects, seek medical attention immediately.
Olmesartan+amlodipine is unlikely to affect fertility or sex life in men or women. Still, the current evidence is insufficient to confirm this. To get personalized advice, consult your doctor.
The time you need to take Olmesartan+amlodipine depends on your health situation and your doctor's advice. You may need to take it long-term, potentially for the rest of your life, to manage an ongoing condition or for a limited time until your condition improves or stabilizes. Your doctor may also adjust or stop your treatment based on your response and their guidance. Always follow their instructions and attend regular check-ups to determine the best course of treatment for you.
Take Olmesartan+amlodipine exactly as prescribed by your doctor to manage your high blood pressure (hypertension). This is a long-term treatment, which means you'll need to take it continuously for an extended period. Regular check-ups with your doctor are crucial to monitor your blood pressure, adjust your dosage as needed, and ensure Olmesartan+amlodipine works effectively and safely for you. Following your doctor's instructions and attending regular check-ups can effectively manage your high blood pressure and reduce the risk of related health issues.
Do not consume alcohol along with Olmesartan+amlodipine to avoid unpleasant side effects. If you have any concerns regarding this consult your doctor.
If you notice side effects while taking Olmesartan+amlodipine, they will usually be mild and temporary and will go away on their own as your body adjusts. However, if the side effects are severe, persistent, or worsen over time, it's important to consult your doctor for personalized advice and care.
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. They will help you understand the potential risks and benefits of taking Olmesartan+amlodipine during this time. It's essential to prioritize your and your baby's health and well-being.
Consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medicines while on Olmesartan+amlodipine. They will help you understand potential interactions and ensure safe combined use. Some medicines may interact with Olmesartan+amlodipine, so it's essential to disclose all medications, supplements, and vitamins you're taking to avoid potential adverse effects.
