Benicar

What is it?

Composition

Benicar is available in tablet form, where the main active ingredient is olmesartan medoxomil. It is he who provides the main therapeutic effect, blocking angiotensin II receptors and normalizing blood pressure.

In addition to the main active ingredient, the tablets contain auxiliary components that ensure the stability of the drug and ease of use:

• Microcrystalline cellulose
• Crospovidone
• Magnesium stearate
• Hydroxypropyl cellulose
• Silicon dioxide
• Lactose monohydrate

These components are necessary to create the structure of the tablet, its solubility and stability throughout the shelf life.

How to use?

Benicar is taken orally in tablet form with a sufficient amount of water. To achieve maximum effect, it is recommended to take the drug at the same time every day, regardless of food intake. The doctor prescribes the dosage individually, taking into account the patients condition and the degree of arterial hypertension.

It is recommended to adhere to the following rules of administration:

1. The initial dose is usually 20 mg once a day. It can be increased to 40 mg depending on the bodys response to treatment.
2. The drug does not require a change in dosage for elderly patients, but people with impaired renal or hepatic function require special attention from a doctor.
3. Do not stop taking Benicar on your own, even if your blood pressure has returned to normal, to avoid sudden jumps.

Before starting therapy, be sure to tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking to avoid unwanted interactions.

How does it work?

Benicars mechanism of action is based on its ability to block angiotensin II receptors. This hormone plays a key role in regulating blood pressure, causing vasoconstriction and the retention of sodium and water in the body. When angiotensin II receptors are blocked, the vessels relax and excess fluid is removed, which leads to a decrease in blood pressure.

Thanks to this approach, Benicar not only reduces pressure, but also protects target organs such as the heart, kidneys and brain from damage associated with chronic hypertension. Regular use of the drug improves vascular elasticity and reduces the load on the heart, which reduces the risk of cardiovascular complications. The effect becomes noticeable within a few weeks after the start of therapy, but the maximum result is achieved with long-term use.

Indications

Benicar is prescribed for the treatment of arterial hypertension in adults and children over 6 years of age. The drug is used both in monotherapy and in combination with other drugs to lower blood pressure, if one drug is not enough to achieve the optimal result.

Among the main indications for use:

• Essential hypertension, requiring long-term treatment to prevent complications.
• Reducing the risk of cardiovascular events, such as stroke and heart attack, in patients with high blood pressure.
• Protecting the kidneys in patients with hypertension and type 2 diabetes.

The drug is recommended for controlling chronic high blood pressure, which helps maintain a stable state of health and prevent the development of diseases associated with hypertension.

Contraindications

The use of Benicar is contraindicated in some situations, since its action may be unsafe for certain categories of patients. Before starting therapy, it is important to carefully read the restrictions and consult a doctor.

Main contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity to olmesartan or any of the components of the drug.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding, since the drug may affect the development of the fetus or infant.
• Severe liver dysfunction or cholelithiasis.
• Children under 6 years of age (efficacy and safety for this group have not been established).
• Lactase deficiency, galactosemia or glucose-galactose malabsorption syndrome, since the composition includes lactose.

The drug is prescribed with caution to patients with impaired renal function, hyperkalemia or narrowing of the renal arteries. The doctor must take into account the individual characteristics of the patients condition.

Side effects

Like any medicine, Benicar may cause side effects. They are usually uncommon and depend on the individual bodys response to treatment. Most patients tolerate the drug well, but it is important to know about possible adverse reactions.

The most common side effects are:

• Headaches and dizziness, especially at the beginning of therapy or when the dosage is increased.
• Fatigue or general weakness associated with the bodys adaptation to a decrease in pressure.
• Gastrointestinal disorders, such as nausea or diarrhea.
• Skin rash or itching, which may be a sign of an allergic reaction.

Rare but serious side effects include hyperkalemia (increased potassium levels in the blood), impaired kidney function, or hypotension (too low blood pressure). If unusual symptoms occur, consult a doctor immediately.