Benicar Uses

What Is Benicar Used For?

Benicar^® (olmesartan medoxomil) is a prescription medication that has been licensed to control high blood pressure (hypertension).

 

A blood pressure reading consists of two numbers -- for example, 120/80. The top number is known as the systolic blood pressure, and the bottom number is the diastolic blood pressure. High blood pressure is defined as an average blood pressure higher than 140/90, with multiple blood pressure readings.

 

Based on clinical studies, Benicar has been shown to significantly lower systolic and diastolic blood pressures. The higher the dose of Benicar, the greater the drop in blood pressure tends to be. By lowering blood pressure, Benicar can decrease the risks that often occur with long-term high blood pressure (see Effects of High Blood Pressure). However, Benicar is not a cure for high blood pressure.

 

How Does Benicar Work?

Benicar is part of a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor blockers, or ARBs for short. As the name implies, Benicar blocks angiotensin II receptors. This decreases the effectiveness of a chemical known as angiotensin II, which normally causes blood vessels to narrow (constrict). By blocking the effects of angiotensin II, Benicar causes blood vessels to relax, which can lower blood pressure.