Olmesartan

Uses of Olmesartan

Olmesartan is commonly used in the treatment of essential hypertension.

How Olmesartan Works

Olmesartan is a selective angiotensin II receptor antagonist. They increase plasma renin levels and angiotensin I & II concentrations and decrease plasma aldosterone concentrations.

Side Effects of Olmesartan

Dizziness, Headache, Cough, Nausea, Vomitting, Diarrhea, Abdominal pain, Dyspepsia, Peripheral edema, Influenza-like symptoms, Back & skeletal pain

Warnings

Kidney Use With Care

It is important to monitor serum potassium and creatinine levels when Olmesartan is used in patients with renal impairments. The usage of this drug is not recommended for patients with severely impaired renal function.

Alcohol Not Advisable

It is not advisable to drink alcohol with Olmesartan as the alcohol may cause additive effect of lowering the blood pressure resulting in symptoms such as dizziness or lightheadedness.

Pregnancy Not Safe

There is evidence of risk to fetus in human studies, but the potential benefits of Olmesartan may warrant the usage despite the risks. It is recommended to change to alternative antihypertensives with established safety profile in pregnancy, unless angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) therapy is indicated in women planning for pregnancy. It has been demonstrated that exposure to ARB during the second and third trimesters may induce fetotoxicity and neonatal toxicity.

Driving Not advisable

Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Olmesartan may cause side effects such as dizziness or tiredness, all of which could affect the ability to concentrate and drive.

Liver Limited Data

It is best to avoid using Olmesartan in patients with severe liver impairment as there is no data available. Dose adjustment is only required for patients with moderate liver impairment and close monitoring of blood pressure and renal function is strongly indicated. Olmesartan should not be used in patients with biliary obstruction.

Lactation Limited Data

This drug is excreted in the milk of lactating rats but it is unknown whether Olmesartan is excreted in human breast milk. Since there is no data on the usage of Olmesartan during breastfeeding, it is recommended to change to alternative antihypertensives with better safety profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Written by , MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).