Olmesartan-Hydrochlorothiazide Oral
In Depth
- Uses and How to Use
- Dosage and Storage
- Precautions and Side Effects
- Drug Interactions
- Drug Images
Pronounced: (OL-me-SAR-tan/HYE-droe-KLOR-oh-THYE-a-zide)
Olmesartan-Hydrochlorothiazide Oral Uses
This medication is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. This medication is a combination of two drugs. Olmesartan works by relaxing blood vessels so blood can flow more easily. Hydrochlorothiazide increases the amount of urine you make, removing extra water and salt from your body. Olmesartan belongs to a class of drugs called angiotensin receptor blockers, and hydrochlorothiazide is commonly called a "water pill" or diuretic.
How To Use Olmesartan-Hydrochlorothiazide Oral
Take this medication by mouth, usually once daily or as directed by your doctor. You may take this drug with or without food. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day.
It is best to take this medication early in the day, before 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., to prevent having to wake up during the night to urinate. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about your dosing schedule.
Drink adequate fluids to prevent the loss of too much body water (dehydration). If you are on restricted fluid intake, consult your doctor for further instructions.
Do not take potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium without talking to your doctor or pharmacist first. This medicine can infrequently raise or lower your potassium blood levels, which can rarely cause serious side effects such as muscle weakness/cramping or fast/slow/irregular heartbeat. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these effects occur.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. For the treatment of high blood pressure, it may take 2 to 4 weeks before you get the full benefit of this drug.
It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.
Cholestyramine and colestipol can decrease the absorption of hydrochlorothiazide. If you are taking either of these drugs, separate olmesartan/hydrochlorothiazide from cholestyramine by at least 4 hours and from colestipol by at least 2 hours.
Inform your doctor if your condition worsens (e.g., your routine blood pressure readings increase).
