John Miller
Benicar HCT (olmesartan/hydrochlorothiazide) is a medication used to treat high blood pressure. It is a combination of two medications that work together to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure. While Benicar HCT has been shown to be effective in controlling blood pressure, it is important to be aware of potential side effects and drug interactions. It is recommended that patients taking Benicar HCT inform their doctor and pharmacist of any other medications or supplements they are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal products, as interactions with other substances can occur. This is especially important for patients who are pregnant, have diabetes, or take medications containing aliskiren, cholestyramine, colestipol, or NSAIDs. With regard to mushroom supplements, it is unclear whether there is a specific interaction with Benicar HCT, but it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before combining any supplements with prescription medications.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| What is Benicar HCT? | A combination medication that contains two first-choice options for treating high blood pressure. |
| Generic name | Olmesartan / hydrochlorothiazide |
| Side effects | Nausea, hyperuricemia, dizziness, upper respiratory tract infection, chest pain, back pain, swelling in extremities, spinning sensation (vertigo), abdominal pain, indigestion, upset stomach, diarrhea, SGOT increased, GGT increased, SGPT increased, hyperlipemia, creatine phosphokinase increased, high blood sugar (hyperglycemia), joint pain, muscle pain, cough, rash, and blood in urine. |
| Serious side effects | Kidney function changes, electrolyte imbalance, and worsening or activation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). |
| Drug interactions | Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) including selective COX-2 inhibitors, alcohol, barbiturates, or narcotics. |
| Precautions | Do not use potassium supplements or salt substitutes unless your doctor has told you to. Do not use if you are pregnant. Do not use Benicar HCT together with any medication that contains aliskiren (a blood pressure medicine) if you have diabetes. |
| Overdose symptoms | Fast or slow heart rate, feeling light-headed, or fainting. |
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What You'll Learn
Benicar HCT's side effects
Benicar HCT is a combination of olmesartan and hydrochlorothiazide, used to treat high blood pressure. It can also be used for other conditions as determined by a healthcare provider. Olmesartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that relaxes the blood vessels, thereby lowering blood pressure and increasing the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart. Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic that increases urination, reducing the amount of water in the body and helping to lower blood pressure.
While Benicar HCT is an effective medication for lowering blood pressure, it does have some side effects. Some of the most common side effects include:
- Dizziness: This can occur when getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position.
- Decreased blood pressure (hypotension): This may be more common in people with low fluid or salt levels, especially if they are taking a diuretic.
- Kidney damage: Benicar HCT can cause kidney problems, including little or no urination, painful or difficult urination, swelling in the feet or ankles, and tiredness or shortness of breath. In rare cases, it can lead to the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, resulting in kidney failure.
- Electrolyte changes and increased blood sugar: Benicar HCT may alter electrolyte levels and increase blood glucose levels.
- Skin cancer risk: Hydrochlorothiazide may increase the risk of skin cancer, so it is important to avoid sunlight, use sunscreen, and wear protective clothing when outdoors.
- Allergic reaction: Symptoms may include hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
It is important to note that this list may not be exhaustive, and other side effects may occur. Always consult with a healthcare professional if any side effects occur or if there are any concerns about taking Benicar HCT.
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Benicar HCT and pregnancy
Benicar HCT (olmesartan medoxomil and hydrochlorothiazide) is a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure. It is important to note that Benicar HCT is not recommended for use during pregnancy and can cause serious harm to the fetus. Here is some detailed information about Benicar HCT and pregnancy:
Pregnancy Warnings:
Benicar HCT belongs to the US FDA pregnancy category D, indicating positive evidence of fetal risk. Animal studies have shown evidence of fetal toxicity, and the use of drugs acting on the renin-angiotensin system during the second and third trimesters has been linked to increased fetal and neonatal morbidity and death.
Recommendations for Pregnant Women:
Pregnant women or women who become pregnant while taking Benicar HCT should discontinue the medication as soon as possible. Olmesartan, one of the components of Benicar HCT, can cause injury or death to the unborn baby, especially during the second and third trimesters. It is crucial to consult a doctor immediately if pregnancy is detected while taking Benicar HCT.
Breastfeeding Warnings:
It is advised not to breastfeed while using Benicar HCT. Hydrochlorothiazide, one of the components of Benicar HCT, is excreted into human milk, and the presence of olmesartan in human milk is unknown. Therefore, a decision between discontinuing breastfeeding or discontinuing the drug should be made, considering the importance of the drug to the mother.
Alternative Treatments during Pregnancy:
In rare cases where there is no appropriate alternative treatment for a pregnant patient, healthcare providers should inform the mother of the potential risks to the fetus. Ultrasound examinations and fetal testing may be appropriate to monitor the intrauterine environment and assess potential adverse effects. However, it is crucial to closely observe infants with histories of in utero exposure to Benicar HCT for potential complications.
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Benicar HCT and blood pressure
Benicar HCT is a prescription medicine used to lower high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults. It is a combination of two medicines: olmesartan and hydrochlorothiazide. Olmesartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that blocks angiotensin II, a natural chemical in the body that causes blood vessels to tighten and narrow, leading to increased blood pressure. By blocking angiotensin II, olmesartan helps to relax and widen the blood vessels, thereby lowering blood pressure. Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic or "water pill" that reduces water retention in the body by increasing urine production, which also helps to lower blood pressure.
Benicar HCT is typically prescribed to patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled with HCT monotherapy or who experience adverse reactions to hydrochlorothiazide. The recommended starting dose is 20/12.5 mg once daily, and the dose can be increased to 40/25 mg if necessary. It is important to note that Benicar HCT is not recommended as the first-line treatment for high blood pressure. It should be used alone or in conjunction with other blood pressure medications under medical supervision.
High blood pressure often has no noticeable symptoms, and patients may feel normal even with elevated blood pressure levels. Untreated high blood pressure can lead to serious health problems such as heart failure, blood vessel disease, stroke, or kidney disease. Lowering blood pressure through medication, lifestyle changes, and a low-sodium diet can reduce the risk of these complications. It is important to take Benicar HCT as directed by a doctor, even if you feel well, as high blood pressure may require lifelong management.
Benicar HCT may interact with other medications, including NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and aliskiren (a blood pressure medicine). It is important to inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products, to avoid potential drug interactions. Additionally, drinking alcohol while taking Benicar HCT can further lower blood pressure and may cause side effects.
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Benicar HCT and mushroom supplements
Benicar HCT (olmesartan/hydrochlorothiazide) is a medication used to treat high blood pressure. It is a combination of two medications, olmesartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), and hydrochlorothiazide, a thiazide diuretic.
While taking Benicar HCT, it is important to inform your doctor and pharmacist about any other medications or supplements you are taking, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal or dietary supplements. This is because Benicar HCT may interact with certain substances, and these interactions can have an impact on your health and the effectiveness of the medication.
Regarding mushroom supplements, there is limited information available on their potential interaction with Benicar HCT. However, it is always advisable to exercise caution when combining any medication with supplements. It is recommended that you consult your healthcare provider before taking mushroom supplements concurrently with Benicar HCT to ensure a safe and effective treatment plan. They may advise you to refrain from taking the supplements or adjust your medication dosage accordingly.
Additionally, it is important to be aware of other known interactions and side effects associated with Benicar HCT. For instance, it may interact with NSAIDs, cholesterol-lowering medications, and blood pressure medications such as aliskiren. Alcohol consumption should also be avoided as it can further lower blood pressure and cause side effects. Furthermore, Benicar HCT has been associated with various side effects, including nausea, dizziness, chest pain, back pain, swelling in extremities, abdominal pain, indigestion, diarrhoea, and more. In rare cases, it can cause kidney problems, electrolyte imbalances, and even lead to kidney failure.
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Benicar HCT and allergies
Benicar HCT is a combination medicine used to treat high blood pressure. It is usually given after other blood pressure medications have proven unsuccessful. Benicar HCT contains hydrochlorothiazide and olmesartan. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic, or water pill, that increases urination. Olmesartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB blocker) that relaxes blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily.
Allergic Reactions
Benicar HCT can cause allergic reactions, which can be serious and sometimes fatal. Stop taking Benicar HCT and seek emergency medical help if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Hives
- Itching
- Difficulty breathing
- Wheezing
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
- Pale red bumps on the skin
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
- Stomach cramps
- Joint pain
- High fever or general ill feeling
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Racing heart
Other Side Effects
Benicar HCT may also cause other side effects, including:
- Diarrhea
- Eye problems, which may lead to vision loss
- Upper respiratory tract infections
- More uric acid in the blood
- Nausea
- Electrolyte and metabolic imbalances, such as hypokalemia and hyponatremia
- Increased risk of skin cancer
- Kidney problems
- Low levels of sodium in the body
- High potassium
Benicar HCT may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide. Always follow the directions given by your doctor or pharmacist, and inform them of any other medications, vitamins, or herbal supplements you are taking.
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Frequently asked questions
Benicar HCT is a combination medication that contains two first-choice options for treating high blood pressure. These medications also work together to lower your risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure.
Common side effects of Benicar HCT include nausea, hyperuricemia, dizziness, upper respiratory tract infection, chest pain, back pain, swelling in extremities, spinning sensation (vertigo), abdominal pain, indigestion, upset stomach, and diarrhea.
Yes, serious side effects of Benicar HCT include changes in kidney function, electrolyte imbalance, and worsening or activation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It can also cause a condition that results in the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, leading to kidney failure.
Benicar HCT may interact with certain medications or supplements. Do not use potassium supplements or salt substitutes unless your doctor has told you to. Do not use Benicar HCT with any medication containing aliskiren if you have diabetes or kidney disease. Avoid alcohol, barbiturates, or narcotics as combining these with Benicar HCT may cause dizziness upon standing.
No, do not take Benicar HCT if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Benicar HCT contains olmesartan, which can cause severe harm or death to an unborn baby if taken during pregnancy.
