Olmesartan is a drug used to treat high blood pressure or hypertension. A more controlled blood pressure will help reduce the risk of complications of hypertension, such as stroke and heart disease.
Olmesartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). This drug works by relaxing the muscles in the blood vessels, so that the blood vessels will widen and blood flow more smoothly. In this way, blood pressure can decrease.
Olmesartan trademark: Normetec, Olmetec, Olmetec Plus, Oloduo
What is Olmesartan
| group | Prescription drugs |
| Category | Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) |
| Benefit | Treating high blood pressure (hypertension) |
| Consumed by | Adults and children 6 years old |
| Olmesartan for pregnant and lactating women | Category D: There is positive evidence of risks to the human fetus, but the benefits may outweigh the risks, for example in dealing with life-threatening situations. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Do not take this medicine before consulting your doctor. |
| Drug form | Tablet |
Precautions Before Taking Olmesartan
Olmesartan should not be taken carelessly. Before taking this drug, you need to pay attention to the following:
- Do not take olmesartan if you are allergic to this drug. Tell your doctor if you have a history of allergies to ARB drugs.
- Tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you have or are currently suffering from liver disease, kidney disease, dehydration, heart disease, low blood pressure, gallstones, or diabetes.
- Tell your doctor if you are on a low-salt diet.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, herbal products, or supplements, such as potassium.
- Do not drive a vehicle or operate equipment that requires alertness while you are taking olmesartan, as this medicine may cause dizziness and drowsiness.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking olmesartan before having any surgery, including dental surgery.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.
- See your doctor right away if you experience an allergic drug reaction, serious side effect, or overdose, after taking olmesartan.
Dosage and Instructions for Use Olmesartan
Olmesartan should only be used as prescribed by a doctor. The following are common doses of olmesartan:
- Mature:Initial dose 10–20 mg, once daily. If needed, the dose can be increased to 40 mg per day.
- Children aged 6–16 years with body weight<35kg: 10 mg, once daily. If needed, the dose can be doubled after 2 weeks.
- Children aged 6–16 years with body weight35 kg: 20 mg, once daily. If needed, the dose can be doubled after 2 weeks.
How to Take Olmesartan Correctly
Follow the doctor's advice and read the information listed on the olmesartan package before starting to take it. Olmesartan can be taken before or after meals.
If you are taking medication to lower cholesterol, such as cholestyramine, colesevelam, or colestipol, keep at least 4 hours apart before taking olmesartan.
Take olmesartan regularly at the same time every day. Do not stop taking olmesartan even if you feel better, unless on advice from your doctor.
If you forget to take olmesartan, take it as soon as you remember if the gap between the next consumption schedule is not too close. If it is close, ignore it and do not double the dose. Do not increase, decrease, or stop taking olmesartan without consulting your doctor first.
Store olmesartan in a dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Olmesartan Interactions with Other Drugs
Olmesartan can cause drug interactions when used with other medicines. The following are some of the possible drug interactions:
- Increased risk of hyperkalemia when used with aliskiren, ACE inhibitors inhibitor, potassium supplements, ciclosporin, or potassium-sparing diuretics
- Increased blood pressure lowering effect when used with other antihypertensive drugs
- Increased risk of acute renal failure when used with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- Increased levels and toxicity of lithium
Olmesartan Side Effects and Dangers
Some of the side effects that can occur after taking olmesartan are:
- Dizzy
- Headache
- Nauseous
- Stomach ache
- Diarrhea
- Cough
- Muscle cramp
Consult a doctor if the above side effects do not subside immediately or get worse. You need to see a doctor immediately if you experience an allergic drug reaction or more serious side effects, such as:
- Faint
- Severe diarrhea
- Irregular heartbeat
- Easy bruising or bleeding
