Olmesartan: An Overview
Olmesartan is also called Benicar and it's an ARB used for hypertension. This popular medication can lower blood pressure, and help reduce cardiovascular risks such as heart attacks and strokes. Olmesartan blocks the angiotensin-II hormone, which causes blood vessels narrowing, and thus increases blood pressure. Olmesartan is also known to have antihypertensive properties and to slow down the progression of chronic renal disease.
Olmesartan: Uses and Benefits
Olmesartan is used primarily to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). People with hypertension can use it to help prevent cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes. Olmesartan can also be prescribed for people with diabetes to slow down the progression of CKD and improve their kidney function.
In studies , olmesartan has been shown to reduce systolic as well as diastolic pressure better than ARBs such Valsartan or Losartan . In clinical studies , olmesartan has been found to reduce systolic and diastolic pressures by as much as 25mmHg. Moreover, olmesartan improved kidney function among patients with type-2 diabetes.
Olmesartan: Benefits and side effects
Olmesartan has several health benefits. It can lower blood pressure and prevent cardiovascular disease such as heart attacks or stroke. Olmesartan can also improve kidney function in diabetics and help slow down the progression of chronic renal disease.
In addition to this, the use of olmesartan is associated with reduced mortality due to heart disease. In a large trial, people who took olmesartan were at a lower risk for death due to any cause (by 20% ) and cardiovascular disease (28%), compared with those not taking the drug.
Olmesartan Side Effects
Most common are nausea, dizziness and diarrhea. Chest pain, joint pain and muscle cramps are less common. Olmesartan may cause severe allergic reactions such as rash, hives and swelling of the lips, face, throat or tongue.
Olmesartan may also increase potassium levels and raise the risk of hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia should be closely monitored in people with kidney disease or taking medications that increase potassium levels.
Olmesartan: Expert and professional opinions
Experts and professionals agree that olmesartan can be an effective treatment to reduce hypertension, and also the risks of cardiovascular events. The American Heart Association recommends ARBs such as olmesartan for patients with high blood tension and those who are at risk of stroke or heart attack.
Experts also agree that olmesartan may help to improve kidney function, and even slow down the progression of chronic renal disease among people with diabetes. National Kidney Foundation suggests ARBs such as olmesartan to be used for this.
Olmesartan: How to Start?
It Is very important that you follow the instructions of your physician when taking olmesartan. In general, the starting dose for olmesartan is 20mg taken once a day. Your doctor can increase your dose up to 40mg a day based on how you respond to the treatment. Olmesartan tablet should be swallowed with water. It can be consumed with or without eating.
Remember that it takes olmesartan several weeks before it has its full effects. So, even if there are no immediate changes in your condition, you should continue taking the medication. Continue to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle, as well as discussing all medication, supplements and dietary modifications with your physician.
Olmesartan comes in generic form, which makes it very cost-effective. In many countries it is sold over-the-counter, but a prescription might be needed in others. Many pharmacies sell olmesartan on the internet.
What are the side effects of a syringe?
You should be aware that side effects can occur, even if they are minor and only temporary. Some of the most common side effects are headaches, nausea, dizziness and vomiting. If these side effects continue or worsen, contact your doctor right away.
Olmesartan may also raise potassium levels. This can lead to hyperkalemia. Patients with kidney disease or taking medications that increase potassium levels need to be closely monitored for hyperkalemia.
Conclusion
Olmesartan can be used to treat hypertension, and reduce your risk of heart attacks and strokes. Diabetes patients who take Olmesartan can improve their kidney function, and it may also slow down the progression of chronic renal disease. Olmesartan comes in very affordable generic form. It can have side effects. Therefore, you should consult your doctor prior to starting treatment with olmesartan.
Olmesartan is a good treatment for hypertension and diabetes. You should follow your doctor's instructions and monitor your potassium level closely if you are prescribed olmesartan. It is also important to maintain a healthy life style and to discuss with your doctor any medication, supplements or dietary changes.
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