Benicar HCT

Generic name: Olmesartan medoxomil and hydrochlorothiazide

What is Benicar HCT?

Benicar HCT is a combination drug indicated for the treatment of high blood pressure. This combination drug is not intended to be used as initial therapy.

What is the most important information I should know about Benicar HCT?

The use of this drug during the second or third trimesters of pregnancy has been shown to cause injury and/or death to the baby. After consulting your doctor, it is important to discontinue treatment with this drug if you are or intend on becoming pregnant.

Lightheadedness may occur when you first start Benicar HCT therapy. Diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, and excessive heat exposure and sweating may cause your blood pressure to drop rapidly and may cause dizziness and fainting. If you experience lightheadedness or a brief loss of consciousness, discontinue this medication until you notify your doctor.

Who should not take Benicar HCT?

If you are unable to produce urine (anuria) or have had a previous allergy to sulfur-containing drugs, you should not take this medication.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Benicar HCT?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Benicar. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual dosage for the treatment of high blood pressure is 1 tablet (20 milligrams [mg] olmesartan medoxomil/12.5 mg hydrochlorothiazide) once daily. Your doctor may give you a higher dose if your blood pressure is not stabilized.

How should I take Benicar HCT?

Take one tablet with or without food as directed.

What should I avoid while taking Benicar HCT?

Avoid becoming pregnant and nursing while taking Benicar HCT. You should avoid taking Benicar HCT if you are currently taking lithium. It is important to avoid dehydration or excessive exposure to heat and sweating. Alcohol use may increase the effects of Benicar HCT and should therefore be avoided unless you have discussed its use with your doctor.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Benicar HCT?

If Benicar HCT is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Benicar HCT with the following: alcohol; antidiabetic drugs such as insulin, metformin; barbiturates such as phenobarbital, pentobarbital; cholestyramine and colestipol resins; corticosteroids; lithium; narcotics such as morphine, oxycontin; pressor amines such as norepinephrine; skeletal muscle relaxants such as tubocurarine; and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, naproxen.

What are the possible side effects of Benicar HCT?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: nausea, dizziness, upper respiratory tract infection, urinary tract infection, rash, headache

Can I receive Benicar HCT if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The use of Benicar HCT is not recommended in women who are or may become pregnant. If you are a woman of child-bearing age, it is advisable to use contraception while taking Benicar HCT due to the potential harm to the fetus. If you are pregnant, discontinue treatment and consult with your doctor.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Benicar HCT?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time of your next dose, skip it and resume your scheduled dose. Do not double your dose.

How should I store Benicar HCT?

Store at room temperature.