Benicar (Olmesartan) Drug Information

Benicar® (
 olmesartan medoxomil) is a drug used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is part of a class of medications called angiotensin II receptor blockers, which work to lower blood pressure levels by causing blood vessels to relax.
 
This medication comes in tablet form and is available in three different strengths. It is typically taken once a day, with or without food. Information your healthcare provider needs to know when prescribing Benicar includes other medical conditions you may have and other drugs you are currently taking.
 
Based on clinical studies, Benicar has been shown to significantly lower systolic and diastolic blood pressures. The higher the dose, the greater the drop in blood pressure tends to be. In studies where people took 40 mg of Benicar, their systolic blood pressure decreased by 12 mmHg and their diastolic blood pressure decreased by 7 mmHg, on average.
 
(For more information about this prescription drug, click Benicar. This article covers topics such as dosing tips and precautions, potential drug interactions, and possible side effects.)
 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD