Olmesartan 40mg

Antihypertensive Agent, Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker

“ALERT: US Boxed Warning

Fetal toxicity:

When pregnancy is detected, discontinue olmesartan as soon as possible. Drugs that act directly on the renin-angiotensin system can cause injury and even death to the developing fetus.”

Brand Name Canada: Olmetec
US Equivalent: Benicar

CSA NA – FDA Approved – REMS (N) – Can Ship

Angiotensin II constricts blood vessels and stimulates the release of aldosterone. Aldosterone increases sodium and water reabsorption which increases blood volume thereby elevating blood pressure. Olmesartan, Olmetec/Benicar inhibits angiotensin II resulting in the opposite effect.

Olmesartan, Olmetec/Benicar officially indicated for hypertension, but is also prescribed off-label for Non-ST-Elevation acute coronary syndrome, ST-elevation myocardial infarction, and proteinuric chronic kidney disease. (may also be used for conditions not listed)

Before starting Olmesartan, Olmetec/Benicar make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take, if you have kidney disease, an electrolyte imbalance, liver disease, are pregnant or breastfeeding

20-40mg once daily

How to Take: Follow instructions provided by physician/pharmacy label, take consistently at same times each day unless otherwise directed, store at room temperature

You Need to Avoid: Careful standing up too quickly as you may get dizzy, and do not supplement with potassium unless instructed by physician

Hypotension, renal function abnormality, dizziness, hyperkalemia

Note this is not a complete list of side effects, only relatively common ones

1. What do I do if I show signs of high potassium levels (nausea, weakness, irregular heartbeat, tingling sensation, loss of movement)
   Seek immediate medical attention, it may be a rare but potentially serious side effect.