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Olmesartan Coupon - Olmesartan 40mg tablet

olmesartan

Generic Benicar
Used for Hypertension
Used for Hypertension

Olmesartan medoxomil (Benicar) is a medication that lowers blood pressure in adults and children ages 6 years and older. It's an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) and works mainly by widening and relaxing your blood vessels to lower pressure. This medication is taken by mouth, typically once per day. People don't usually experience much side effects from olmesartan (Benicar), though some people have reported mild and temporary dizziness.

Last reviewed on September 25, 2023
basics-icon

What is Olmesartan (Benicar)?

What is Olmesartan (Benicar) used for?

How Olmesartan (Benicar) works

Olmesartan (Benicar) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). Angiotensin II is a hormone that acts on multiple areas in the body. When it acts on the blood vessels, the blood vessels narrow, which raises blood pressure.

Olmesartan (Benicar) blocks angiotensin II in the blood vessels. In doing so, this medication tells the blood vessels to relax, which helps to lower blood pressure.

Are you looking for information on Benicar HCT (olmesartan/hctz) instead?
When does Olmesartan (Benicar) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsBenicar
Drug ClassARB
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only

More on Olmesartan (Benicar) essentials

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Avg retail price
$181.90(save 93.27%)
GoodRx discount
$12.24
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What are the side effects of Olmesartan (Benicar)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Dizziness (3%)

Other Side Effects

  • Facial swelling
  • Weakness
  • Vomiting
  • Hair loss
  • Rash
  • Diarrhea

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Serious kidney problems: urinating less often than usual, swelling in your feet, ankles, or hands, unexplained weight gain
  • Dangerously low blood pressure: dizziness, lightheadedness, pale skin, feeling faint
  • High blood potassium levels: nausea, muscle weakness, abnormal heartbeat
  • Severe diarrhea: having watery bowel movements 10-20 times daily, nausea, weight loss
When do Olmesartan (Benicar) possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Dizziness

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Less common

Blood in the urine

body aches or pain

chills

cough or cough producing mucus

difficulty with breathing

ear congestion

fever

headache

loss of voice

runny or stuffy nose

sneezing

sore throat

tightness in the chest

unusual tiredness or weakness

Rare

Bladder pain

bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet

chest pain

cloudy urine

difficult, burning, or painful urination

fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse

frequent urge to urinate

joint pain, stiffness, or swelling

lower back, side, or stomach pain

swelling of the feet or lower legs

Incidence not known

Confusion

dark-colored urine

diarrhea (severe) with weight loss

dizziness

hives or itching

large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs

muscle cramps or spasms

muscle pain or stiffness

nausea or vomiting

weakness or heaviness of the legs

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur:

Symptoms of overdose

Blurred vision

chest pain or discomfort

dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness

sweating

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Less common

Back pain

diarrhea

dry mouth

flushed, dry skin

fruit-like breath odor

general feeling of discomfort or illness

increased hunger

increased thirst

increased urination

loss of appetite

muscle aches

pain or tenderness around the eyes and cheekbones

shivering

tender, swollen glands in the neck

trouble sleeping

trouble swallowing

unexplained weight loss

Rare

Acid or sour stomach

belching

difficulty with moving

feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings

heartburn

indigestion

rapid weight gain

rash

sensation of spinning

tingling of the hands or feet

unusual weight gain or loss

Incidence not known

Hair loss or thinning of the hair

lack or loss of strength

redness of the skin

welts

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Olmesartan (Benicar)

thumbs-up

Pros

A first-choice blood pressure medication

Can be taken by children as young as 6 years old

Taken once per day

Available as a lower-cost generic

thumbs-down

Cons

Takes about 2 weeks to see full benefits of olmesartan (Benicar)

Not a good option for certain people with kidney problems

Not safe to use if you're pregnant or breastfeeding

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Olmesartan (Benicar)

pharmacist
  • You might feel dizzy when you start taking olmesartan (Benicar), and when the dose is raised. This should get better over time as you continue taking the medication and your body gets used to your new blood pressure.

    • Make sure to mark your calendar with your appointments to see your provider and to get any blood work done when you take olmesartan (Benicar). Your provider might order tests (e.g., potassium level, kidney function, blood pressure) during treatment and might change your dose of olmesartan (Benicar) based on your lab results.

      • Take olmesartan (Benicar) exactly as prescribed. Don't change your dose or suddenly stop taking the medication without talking to your provider first. Doing so can cause your blood pressure to rise quickly. If you want to stop olmesartan (Benicar), ask your provider if it's safe to do so. You might need to lower your dose slowly over time before you can completely stop taking it.

        • Let your provider know if you experience severe diarrhea that doesn't seem to get better over time. This can be a rare, but serious, side effect of olmesartan (Benicar). It's possible to develop stomach problems even months or years after starting olmesartan (Benicar). And if left untreated, this can lead to weight loss and cause electrolyte levels to be out of balance. If you experience severe diarrhea, your provider might need to switch you to a different medication.

          • Olmesartan (Benicar) can raise your potassium levels, which can be serious. Contact your provider if you experience nausea, vomiting, or muscle weakness because these might be signs of high potassium levels.

            • Make sure to have a healthy diet, including a low-salt diet, while taking olmesartan (Benicar) to help lower your blood pressure. Depending on your risk factors and other medical problems, it's possible you might be able to stop taking olmesartan (Benicar) if your blood pressure gets within goal.

              faqs

              Frequently asked questions about Olmesartan (Benicar)

              Is olmesartan (Benicar) a beta blocker or a diuretic?
              No, olmesartan (Benicar) is neither a beta blocker nor a diuretic (water pill). But rather, it's an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). While all three classes of medications are used to lower blood pressure, they do so in different ways. Beta blockers work by acting on the heart and blood vessels, while diuretics do so by telling the body to get rid of more fluids. Olmesartan (Benicar) lowers blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels. If you're taking olmesartan (Benicar), your provider might consider adding on a beta blocker or diuretic, depending on factors like what other medical conditions you have and how high your blood pressure is.
              How long does it take for olmesartan (Benicar) to start working?
              When you first start olmesartan (Benicar), you might notice a drop in your blood pressure within a day after your first dose. But it typically takes about 2 weeks to see the full blood pressure-lowering effect of the medication. If your blood pressure is still high after this time, your provider might raise your dose and it'll take another 2 weeks to see the full effects of the new dose. To keep track of how well olmesartan (Benicar) is work, measure your blood pressure regularly at home. You're recommended to share the blood pressure numbers with your provider at your appointments so they can better care for your health.
              How long does olmesartan (Benicar) stay in your system?
              It takes about 2-3 days for most of olmesartan (Benicar) to leave your body. This timeframe is estimated based on the half-life of olmesartan (Benicar). Because olmesartan (Benicar) is cleared from your body by the liver and through urine, this medication can stay in your body longer if you have liver or kidney problems. If you're concerned about how long olmesartan (Benicar) stays in your system, talk with your provider.
              Can I take olmesartan (Benicar) twice a day?
              Olmesartan (Benicar) is typically prescribed just once per day. A small study looked into how well olmesartan (Benicar) worked at controlling blood pressure if you take it once a day versus twice a day. Results showed that the twice-daily dosing doesn't control blood pressure better compared to once-daily dosing. Talk with your provider if you've more questions about how to take olmesartan (Benicar).
              Does olmesartan (Benicar) lower heart rate?
              Olmesartan (Benicar) isn't likely to cause significant change in heart rate. People didn't report low heart rate as a side effect of this medication during clinical studies.
              Does olmesartan (Benicar) cause erectile dysfunction?
              No, erectile dysfunction (ED) wasn't reported as a side effect by males who took olmesartan (Benicar) in clinical studies. While certain blood pressure medications are linked to ED, you're unlikely to experience it with olmesartan (Benicar). If you're concerned about ED and blood pressure medications, talk to your provider.
              Does olmesartan (Benicar) cause weight gain?
              No, people who took olmesartan (Benicar) during clinical studies didn't report weight gain as a side effect. Speak with your provider if you experience unusual or unexpected weight gain while you're taking olmesartan (Benicar). They can try to help you figure out the cause behind the weight gain.
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              warings-icon

              What are the risks and warnings for Olmesartan (Benicar)?

              Olmesartan (Benicar) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

              risk-warning

              Harm to unborn babies

              Olmesartan (Benicar) shouldn't be used in pregnant females because it can cause severe harm and even death to unborn babies. If you find out that you're pregnant while taking olmesartan (Benicar), stop and let your provider know right away. If you're pregnant before starting olmesartan (Benicar) or thinking of becoming pregnant during treatment, discuss with your provider about safer options to treat your blood pressure.

              risk-warning

              Low blood pressure (in people who are dehydrated)

              • Risk factors: Not enough fluid in your body (dehydration) | Having diarrhea or vomiting for a long time | Low salt levels in your body | Taking higher doses of diuretic mediations

                Olmesartan (Benicar) is taken to lower blood pressure. But sometimes, having a lower blood pressure can be dangerous for certain groups of people, especially those who are dehydrated or those who've lost a lot of body fluids through diarrhea, vomiting, or taking water-pills.

                Make sure to stay well-hydrated while taking olmesartan (Benicar). If your blood pressure drops too much and you feel dizzy, make sure to sit down slowly while holding onto something and let your provider know.

                risk-warning

                Worsening kidney problems

                • Risk factors: Kidney problems | Heart failure | Taking medications that affect your kidneys | Not enough fluid in your body

                  In some people, olmesartan (Benicar) can cause the kidneys to not work as well. The risk is higher if you have certain types of kidney problems, such as renal artery stenosis or very severe heart failure, or if you're taking other medications that can affect your kidneys. Your provider might order blood tests to make sure your kidneys are healthy and working properly. Let your provider know if you're urinating less often than usual or notice any swelling, as these could be signs that your kidneys aren't working as well.

                  risk-warning

                  High potassium levels

                  • Risk factors: Kidney problems | Heart failure | Taking other medications that raise potassium | Use of potassium-containing salt substitutes

                    Olmesartan (Benicar) can raise the amount of potassium in your body. In some people, this can lead to certain symptoms, such as a tingling sensation, nausea, or muscle weakness. The risk is higher if you're taking other medications that can raise your potassium, or if you have certain medical conditions. Your provider might order blood tests to monitor your potassium on a regular basis.

                    risk-warning

                    Severe diarrhea (sprue-like enteropathy)

                    Rarely, people who take olmesartan (Benicar) experience serious diarrhea (sprue-like enteropathy). Sometimes, this happens months to years after starting the medication. In severe cases, the diarrhea can lead to weight loss, stomach pain, tiredness, nausea, and vomiting. If you experience severe diarrhea that doesn't seem to get better after a few day, get medical help right away. Make sure to stay hydrated with fluids and electrolytes.

                    dosage

                    Olmesartan (Benicar) dosage forms

                    The average cost for 30 tablets of 40mg of Olmesartan (Benicar) is $12.24 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 93.27% off the average retail price of $181.90.
                    tablet
                    Tablet
                    DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                    5mg90 tablets$15.30$0.17
                    20mg90 tablets$14.94$0.17
                    40mg30 tablets$12.24$0.41

                    Typical dosing for Olmesartan (Benicar)

                    Adults

                    • The typical starting dose is 20 mg by mouth once daily. Your provider might raise your dose after 2 weeks. The maximum recommended dose is 40 mg daily.

                    Children (6 years and older)

                    • Body weight 44-76 pounds: The typical starting dose is 10 mg by mouth once daily. Your provider might raise your dose after 2 weeks. The maximum recommended dose is 20 mg daily.

                    • Body weight 77 pounds and over: The typical starting dose is 20 mg by mouth once daily. Your provider might raise your dose after 2 weeks. The maximum recommended dose is 40 mg daily.

                    interactions

                    Interactions between Olmesartan (Benicar) and other drugs

                    Olmesartan (Benicar) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Olmesartan (Benicar). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

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                    How much does Olmesartan (Benicar) cost?

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                    contraindications-icon

                    Olmesartan (Benicar) contraindications

                    Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Olmesartan (Benicar) will not be safe for you to take.
                    alternatives

                    What are alternatives to Olmesartan (Benicar)?

                    There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Olmesartan (Benicar). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                    Olmesartan (Benicar)
                    Used for:
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                    latest news

                    What is the latest news about Olmesartan (Benicar)?

                    images

                    Olmesartan (Benicar) images

                    White Round M And 124 - Olmesartan Medoxomil 40mg Tablet
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                    White Oval Sg And 341 - Olmesartan Medoxomil 40mg Tablet
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                    References

                    Best studies we found
                    View All References (10)

                    Brar, S., et al. (2018). Association of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor or Angiotensin Receptor Blocker Use With Outcomes After Acute Kidney Injury. JAMA Internal Medicine.

                    Brunner, H. R. (2002). The new oral angiotensin II antagonist olmesartan medoxomil: a concise overview. Journal of Human Hypertension.

                    Kerndt, C. C., et al. (2023). Olmesartan. StatPearls.

                    National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2014). Renal artery stenosis.

                    Patel, P. et al. (2023). Angiotensin II. StatPearls.

                    Sakai, Y., et al. (2013). Comparison of once daily versus twice daily olmesartan in patients with chronic kidney disease. International Journal of Nephrology and Renovascular Disease.

                    Terra, S. G. (2003). Angiotensin receptor blockers. Circulation.

                    Tran, T. H., et al. (2014). Olmesartan and drug-induced enteropathy. Pharmacy & Therapeutics.

                    Unger, T., et al. (2020). 2020 International Society of Hypertension global hypertension practice guidelines. Hypertension.

                    You and Your Hormones. (2019). Angiotensin.

                    GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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