Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide Uses, Dosage, Side Effects

Generic Name	Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide
Bangla Name	ওলমেসারটান মেডােক্সোমিল + হাইড্রোক্লোরােথায়াজাইড
Available brands	34
Language	English বাংলা

Generic Name

Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide

Bangla Name

ওলমেসারটান মেডােক্সোমিল + হাইড্রোক্লোরােথায়াজাইড

Available brands

Language

English বাংলা

Introduction

Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is a combination drug containing both olmesartan medoxomil (an angiotensin receptor blocker) and hydrochlorothiazide (a diuretic). This drug is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).

Uses

Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide is used for the treatment of hypertension. It is not recommended for children or pregnant women.

Mechanism Of Action

Olmesartan Medoxomil is a selective angiotensin receptor blocker or ARB. It works by blocking the effect of angiotensin II, a chemical produced in the body. This drug allows the blood vessels to relax, resulting in lower blood pressure. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that helps to reduce water retention and reduce the fluid volume in the blood vessels. This leads to a lowering of blood pressure.

How Long Does It Take To Work?

The peak effects of Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide can be noticed in 6-12 hours after administration.

Absorption

Olmesartan medoxomil is rapidly and completely absorbed after oral administration with peak concentrations seen in 1-2 hours. Hydrochlorothiazide is rapidly and completely absorbed after oral administration with peak concentrations seen in 1-3 hours.

Route of Elimination

Olmesartan medoxomil is. It is eliminated primarily by the kidneys and has a half life of 11-15 hours. Hydrochlorothiazide is primarily eliminated through the urine and has a half life of 6-14 hours.

Dosage

Hypertension: The usual starting dose is 20/12.5 mg one tablet once daily. Dosing should be individualized. Depending on the blood pressure response, the dose may be titrated at intervals of 2-4 weeks to two tablets 40/25 once daily. The recommended dose of Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide is 20/12.5mg once daily. The dose may be increased to 40/12.5mg or 40/25mg once daily depending on the patient’s response and the severity of hypertension.

Administration

Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide should be taken orally with or without food.

Side Effects

The most common side effects are dizziness, weakness, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps, diarrhea, and constipation. Other side effects include changes in heart rate, low blood pressure, and skin rash.

Toxicity

Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide is generally well tolerated, and serious toxicity is rare. No specific therapeutic measures are needed in the case of an overdose.

Precautions

Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide is not recommended for patients with significant renal impairment and patients who are taking other anti-hypertensive drugs. This drug should also be used with caution in patients with diabetes and those with a history of liver or kidney disease.

Interactions

Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide is known to interact with other medications, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors) and potassium-sparing diuretics. It is important to inform your doctor of all medications that you are taking before starting this drug.

Disease Interaction

Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide is contraindicated in patients with a history of angioedema or hypersensitivity to other ACE inhibitors. It is also contraindicated in patients with primary renal disease.

Drug Interaction

Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide is known to interact with other drugs, such as potassium-sparing diuretics, cyclosporine, lithium, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors).

Food Interactions

Food does not interfere with the absorption of Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide.

Pregnancy Use

Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide is not recommended for use in pregnant women.

Lactation Use

Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide is not recommended for use in nursing mothers.

Acute Overdose

Symptoms of an acute overdose of Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide may include dizziness, weakness, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If overdose occurs, treatment should be supportive, and dialysis may be required in severe cases.

Contraindications

Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide is contraindicated in patients with history of angioedema and hypersensitivity to other ACE inhibitors. It should also not be used in patients with primary renal disease.

Dosage and Administration

The recommended dose of Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide is 20/12.5mg once daily. The dose may be increased to 40/12.5mg or 40/25mg once daily, depending on the patient's response and the severity of hypertension. Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide should be taken orally with or without food.

Use Direction

Take Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide as directed by your doctor or according to the package directions. Do not take more or less of it than directed, and do not take it for a longer period of time than recommended by your doctor.

Storage Conditions

Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Volume Of Distribution

Olmesartan Medoxomil has a volume of distribution of 33 L/kg. Hydrochlorothiazide has a volume of distribution of 12 L/kg.

Half Life

Olmesartan Medoxomil has a half life of 11-15 hours. Hydrochlorothiazide has a half life of 6-14 hours.

Clearance

Olmesartan Medoxomil has an oral clearance of 0.14 L/h/kg. Hydrochlorothiazide has an oral clearance of 0.25 L/h/kg.

Frequently Asked Questions About Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide

1. What is Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide?

Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide is a combination drug used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It contains two active ingredients: Olmesartan (an angiotensin II receptor blocker) and Hydrochlorothiazide (a diuretic).

2. How does Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide work?

Olmesartan blocks the action of angiotensin II, relaxing blood vessels, while Hydrochlorothiazide helps remove excess salt and water through urine, reducing blood pressure.

3. What is this combination drug used for?

It is used for treating hypertension in patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled with a single drug.

4. What are the available doses of Olmesartan Medoxomil + Hydrochlorothiazide?

20 mg/12.5 mg
40 mg/12.5 mg
40 mg/25 mg

5. How should I take this medication?

Take it once daily with or without food, as prescribed by your doctor.

6. Can I split or crush the tablet?

No, swallow the tablet whole with water.

7. What happens if I miss a dose?

Take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's close to your next dose. Do not double the dose.

8. What should I do in case of an overdose?

Seek emergency medical help. Symptoms of overdose include severe dizziness, fainting, or dehydration.

9. What are the common side effects?

Dizziness
Fatigue
Nausea
Frequent urination
Low blood pressure
Increased thirst

10. Can this drug cause serious side effects?

Severe drop in blood pressure
Electrolyte imbalance
Kidney problems
Allergic reactions
Irregular heartbeat

11. Can I drink alcohol while taking this medication?

Avoid alcohol, as it can lower blood pressure too much and cause dizziness.

12. Can pregnant women take this drug?

No, it can harm an unborn baby and should not be taken during pregnancy.

13. Can breastfeeding mothers take this medication?

No, it is not recommended as it may pass into breast milk.

14. Is this drug safe for elderly patients?

Yes, but they may require dose adjustments due to kidney function concerns.

15. Can I take this if I have diabetes?

Yes, but it should not be combined with **aliskiren-containing drugs**, as it may increase the risk of kidney damage.

16. Can I take this if I have kidney disease?

Use with caution. Your doctor may monitor your kidney function closely.

17. Can I take this if I have liver disease?

Yes, but dose adjustments may be necessary.

18. Does this medication interact with other drugs?

Yes, it may interact with:

Diuretics
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen)
Potassium supplements
Other blood pressure medications
Diabetes medications

19. Can I take this medication with food?

Yes, food does not affect its absorption.

20. Can this medication cause dehydration?

Yes, since Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic, it increases urine output, which may lead to dehydration.

21. Does this medication cause weight gain?

No, weight gain is not a common side effect.

22. Can this medication cause fatigue?

Yes, some people may feel tired or weak.

23. Can I stop taking this medication suddenly?

No, stopping suddenly can cause blood pressure spikes. Consult your doctor first.

24. Can this medication cause depression?

Depression is not a common side effect, but consult your doctor if you experience mood changes.

25. Can I take potassium supplements with this drug?

Not without doctor approval, as it may increase potassium levels.

26. Can this drug cause shortness of breath?

It is rare, but seek medical help if you experience difficulty breathing.

27. Does this medication protect the kidneys?

Yes, it may help protect kidney function, especially in hypertensive patients.

28. How long does it take for this medication to work?

It starts working within a few hours, but full effects may take 2 weeks.

29. Will this medication cure hypertension?

No, it helps control hypertension but does not cure it.

30. Does this medication lower heart rate?

No, it primarily lowers blood pressure.

31. Can I exercise while taking this medication?

Yes, but avoid strenuous activities if you feel dizzy.

32. Can I take this medication at night?

Yes, but since it contains a diuretic, taking it in the evening may cause frequent urination at night.

33. Can this medication cause joint pain?

Joint pain is rare but can occur.

34. Can I take this with aspirin?

Yes, but consult your doctor, especially if taking high doses.

35. Can this medication cause headaches?

Yes, headache is a common side effect.

36. Can this medication cause constipation?

Constipation is not a common side effect.

37. Can I take this with grapefruit juice?

Grapefruit juice does not significantly affect this medication.

38. Is this medication available over the counter?

No, it requires a prescription.

39. How should I store this medication?

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

40. Can I take this with beta-blockers?

Yes, but your doctor will monitor your blood pressure closely.

41. Can I take it with calcium channel blockers?

Yes, but your doctor will adjust your dosage accordingly.

42. Can this medication cause dry mouth?

Yes, dry mouth can be a side effect of Hydrochlorothiazide.

43. Does this medication cause increased urination?

Yes, Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic and increases urine output.

44. Can I take this if I have gout?

Use with caution as diuretics can increase uric acid levels.

45. Is this combination drug more effective than taking each component separately?

Yes, combining them improves blood pressure control compared to taking them individually.

Medical review

Last reviewed: 30 Aug 2024

Medically reviewed by:

This is general information, not personal medical advice. Consult a doctor before taking any medicine.