Description

Olmesartan 20 mg: Uses, Benefits, Dosage and Safety Details

Olmesartan 20mg is a prescription drug that is used to help control high blood pressure. It is in a class of drugs known as angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). Olmesartan blocks the action of a substance in the body that causes blood vessels to tighten . It may therefore help to lower blood pressure.

What is the use of Olmesartan 20mg?

Olmesartan 20mg is often prescribed by doctors for hypertension, or high blood pressure. It may be used alone or with other blood pressure medications. High blood pressure management can also help to reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular complications associated with uncontrolled hypertension.

How Olmesartan Works ?

Olmesartan works by blocking the receptors of angiotensin II. Angiotensin II normally causes blood vessels to constrict and blood pressure to rise. But olmesartan prevents this action, which relaxes the blood vessels. This allows blood to flow more easily through the vessels, which helps to lower blood pressure.

Dose of Olmesartan 20mg

The usual recommended starting dose of olmesartan medoxomil in adults with hypertension is 20mg once daily as monotherapy in non-volume depleted patients. If more blood pressure reduction is needed, a healthcare professional might increase the dose, typically after about two weeks. The generally approved adult dose range is 20mg to 40mg once daily.

But patients should not change their dose without medical advice. Take your medicine exactly as your doctor tells you. Try to take it at the same time each day. It is normally taken with or without food.

Potential Side Effects

As with all medicines, Olmesartan 20mg may cause side effects. The most common adverse reaction reported is dizziness. Other people may experience low blood pressure especially when they are dehydrated or have low salt levels.

Important but rare problems can include kidney problems, high potassium levels, and a serious intestinal problem called sprue-like enteropathy. Patients should therefore consult with their healthcare professional if symptoms become persistent or severe.

Important Safety Information

Pregnancy: Olmesartan is not recommended in pregnancy. If pregnancy occurs while taking olmesartan, contact a healthcare professional promptly because medicines that act on the renin-angiotensin system can cause serious foetal harm.

Also, let your doctor know about any other medicines you may be taking. For example, olmesartan may interact with medicines that increase potassium, NSAIDs, lithium and other medicines that affect the renin-angiotensin system.

Conclusion

Olmesartan 20mg is a commonly used ARB for managing high blood pressure. It works by relaxing blood vessels and assisting blood to flow more easily. However, use it only as prescribed by your healthcare professional. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, healthy lifestyle and appropriate medical care can all help manage hypertension effectively.