Olmesartan

Olmesartan

Olmesartan is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist used primarily in the treatment of hypertension. It is marketed worldwide by Daiichi Sankyo, a Japanese pharmaceutical company, under the trade name Benicar.

Pharmacology

Olmesartan works by blocking the binding of angiotensin II to the AT1 receptor in vascular smooth muscle. This prevents the potent vasoconstrictor effects of angiotensin II, thereby reducing blood pressure.

Clinical Use

Olmesartan is used to treat high blood pressure in adults and children who are at least 6 years old. It is sometimes given together with other blood pressure medications.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Olmesartan include dizziness or lightheadedness as your body adjusts to the medication. Serious side effects may include injury or death to the unborn baby if you take the medicine during your second or third trimester.

Interactions

Olmesartan can interact with other medications, vitamins, or herbs you may be taking. An interaction is when a substance changes the way a drug works. This can be harmful or prevent the drug from working well.

See Also

• Angiotensin II receptor antagonist
• Hypertension
• Daiichi Sankyo