Olmesartan Medoxomil
Olmesartan Medoxomil is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used primarily for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure). It works by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a substance in the body that causes blood vessels to tighten. As a result, olmesartan medoxomil helps to relax blood vessels, lower blood pressure, and improve blood flow. Olmesartan is used to treat high blood pressure. It may be used alone or in combination with other drugs to lower your blood pressure.Olmesartan Medoxomil is indicated for the management of hypertension to lower blood pressure. Lowering blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. It may be used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents.
The typical starting dose of Olmesartan Medoxomil for adults is 20 mg once daily. Depending on the patient's response, the dosage may be increased to a maximum of 40 mg once daily. It can be taken with or without food. For pediatric patients aged 6 to 16 years, the starting dose is generally 10 mg once daily for those weighing 20 to less than 35 kg and 20 mg for those weighing 35 kg or more. The dose can be adjusted based on the response and tolerability.
Olmesartan Medoxomil is contraindicated in patients with: -Hypersensitivity to olmesartan medoxomil or any component of the formulation. -Pregnant women, particularly during the second and third trimesters, due to the risk of injury and death to the developing fetus. -Patients with severe renal impairment or conditions associated with cholestasis.
-Renal Impairment: Caution should be exercised in patients with renal artery stenosis or severe renal impairment. -Hepatic Impairment: Dosage adjustments may be necessary for patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment. -Hyperkalemia: Regular monitoring of potassium levels is recommended, especially in patients with renal impairment or those taking potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics. -Volume Depletion: Patients with an activated renin-angiotensin system, such as those who are volume-depleted or on diuretics, may experience symptomatic hypotension. -Pregnancy: Discontinue use as soon as pregnancy is detected.
Common side effects include: -Dizziness -Headache -Fatigue -Gastrointestinal issues like nausea and diarrhea -Back pain -Upper respiratory tract infections Serious side effects, though rare, may include: -Kidney problems -Hyperkalemia -Severe allergic reactions (angioedema) -Sprue-like enteropathy
-Potassium-sparing diuretics and potassium supplements: Increased risk of hyperkalemia. -Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): May reduce the antihypertensive effect of olmesartan and increase the risk of renal dysfunction. -Lithium: Risk of increased lithium toxicity. -Other antihypertensive agents: Potential for additive effects, requiring dosage adjustments.
