Benicar HCT (Olmesartan HCT)

Description

Benicar HCT is a combination medication used to manage high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. It contains olmesartan medoxomil and hydrochlorothiazide. Olmesartan medoxomil is classified as an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), which helps relax blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily. The second ingredient, hydrochlorothiazide, is a thiazide diuretic, often referred to as a "water pill." It helps the kidneys eliminate sodium and water from the body, reducing blood pressure. This combination of medications makes Benicar HCT effective in lowering blood pressure levels, which may help reduce the risk of strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems.

Directions

Benicar HCT is taken once daily. The standard starting dose is 40/12.5 mg. The recommended starting dose for patients not adequately controlled with olmesartan alone is 40/12.5 mg, while for those not adequately controlled with hydrochlorothiazide alone, it is 20/12.5 mg. The dosage may be adjusted after 2 to 4 weeks, as needed, up to a maximum of 40/25 mg olmesartan/hydrochlorothiazide.

Dosages may vary based on the patient's specific medical needs. Always follow the prescribed instructions from a healthcare provider to ensure effectiveness and safety.

Ingredients

The active ingredients in Benicar HCT are olmesartan medoxomil and hydrochlorothiazide.

Contraindications

Avoid taking Benicar HCT if any of the following apply:

• Known hypersensitivity to olmesartan, hydrochlorothiazide, or sulfonamides
• Co-administration with aliskiren in people with diabetes
• Anuria (complete absence of urine output)

Cautions

• Before taking Benicar HCT, you may want to consult a healthcare provider about the following:
• Any existing health conditions
• Any allergies
• A list of all medications you are currently taking
• Whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding

• Benicar HCT should not be taken during pregnancy. Taking this medication in the second or third trimester may cause serious harm or even death to an unborn baby. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, stop using it and contact your doctor right away.
• This medicine may cause dizziness or fainting, especially in people who are low on fluids or salt—often due to heavy use of diuretics. If this happens, lie down and seek medical help. Once your body is balanced again, your doctor may let you continue taking Benicar HCT.
• Benicar HCT may affect kidney function, especially in people with kidney disease, severe heart failure, or dehydration. Your doctor may check your kidney health with blood tests while you're on this medicine.
• Some people may develop allergic reactions to hydrochlorothiazide, a component of Benicar HCT. These reactions are more likely if you have a history of asthma or other allergies, but they can happen to anyone.
• Benicar HCT can cause imbalances in minerals like potassium, sodium, and magnesium. It may also raise your blood sugar, cholesterol, and uric acid levels. In rare cases, this can trigger gout. Your doctor will likely monitor your blood regularly.
• In rare cases, hydrochlorothiazide can cause a sudden eye condition called angle-closure glaucoma, which can lead to permanent vision loss. Signs include blurry vision or eye pain, usually within hours to weeks of starting the medication. If this happens, get medical help immediately.
• This medication may worsen or trigger symptoms of lupus in people who already have it or are at risk. Let your doctor know if you have a history of lupus.
• Some people taking olmesartan have developed severe and long-lasting diarrhea with weight loss, even after months or years of treatment. If this happens, tell your doctor. You may need to stop taking the medication.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Benicar HCT include dizziness, nausea, upper respiratory infections, and back pain. Some patients also report rash, muscle or joint pain, and elevated liver enzymes. These side effects were generally mild and rarely required stopping the medication. Facial swelling and rare cases of angioedema have been reported and may require urgent medical attention.

More serious risks may include low blood pressure, kidney impairment, and electrolyte imbalances such as high potassium or uric acid levels. In rare cases, Benicar HCT may lead to sprue-like enteropathy, severe skin reactions, or systemic lupus erythematosus. High doses of olmesartan may increase cardiovascular risk in diabetic patients. Hydrochlorothiazide, one of the ingredients, has also been linked to a higher risk of non-melanoma skin cancer with long-term use.

References

1. Benicar HCT Product Monograph. Basking Ridge, NJ: Daiichi Sankyo, Inc.; 2020.
2. Benicar HCT Drug Label Information. South Plainfield, NJ: Cosette Pharmaceuticals, Inc.; 2022.

About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)

An honors graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Sison started his pharmacy career in a community setting, extending his services to hospitals and clinics over time. He has also worked in medication therapy management, advising patients on proper medication use for their chronic health conditions. Read More....