The most common side effects of olmesartan include dizziness or light-headedness, diarrhea, vertigo, dry mouth and backache.
The most common side effects of olmesartan are dizziness or light-headedness when your body is adjusting to this medication. Olmesartan is typically used to treat high blood pressure, and although it may cause side effects, most people experience little to no symptoms.
However, some of the side effects of olmesartan drugs include:
- Backache
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Vertigo
- Blood in the urine
- Dry mouth
- Muscle aches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Cough
- Fever and body aches (flu-like symptoms)
- Sore throat, runny nose and sinus infections
- Appetite loss
Other serious side effects and symptoms may include:
- Swelling of the face, lips, throat or tongue
- Hypotensive symptoms, such as weakness and dizziness
- Pain in the upper right part of the stomach
- Yellowing skin (jaundice)
- Itchy skin
- Swelling of the feet, ankles or hands
- Weight gain
- Chest pain
- Peripheral edema
- Excessive nausea, vomiting and lethargy
- Depressed mood
Additionally, this medication may harm or terminate your pregnancy, so if you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor about other methods of lowering your blood pressure.
Mild side effects may subside in a few days or weeks, although you should contact your doctor if your symptoms worsen or do not go away. If your symptoms appear to be life-threatening or if you believe there is a medical emergency, dial 911.
If you experience any serious side effects, such as fainting, symptoms of a high potassium level in the blood (such as muscle weakness or a slow or irregular heartbeat), signs of kidney problems (such as a change in the amount of urine) or severe diarrhea, contact your doctor right away.
A severe allergic reaction to this drug is uncommon. However, seek medical attention immediately if you notice any of the following symptoms of a severe allergic reaction:
- Rash
- Itching or swelling (especially of the face, tongue or throat)
- Severe dizziness
- Difficulty breathing
What is olmesartan?
Olmesartan, a medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), is called an angiotensin II receptor blocker or ARB because it works by blocking the angiotensin II receptor, which is a type of protein. By binding to these proteins, olmesartan helps relax the blood vessels (arteries and veins), thereby reducing the blood pressure.
Olmesartan is sometimes prescribed in conjunction with other blood pressure medications. Angiotensin II is a hormone produced by the body that causes blood vessels to constrict. Olmesartan inhibits the action of angiotensin-II, causing your blood vessels to relax. This helps reduce blood pressure.
Even if you feel fine, continue to take this medication as directed. Symptoms of high blood pressure are not always present. Patients may need to take this medication for the rest of their lives if no serious side effects occur.
How to take olmesartan
Olmesartan is available in the form of pills that must be swallowed and is taken one time a day, with or without food. To ensure that you continue to take olmesartan, take it at the same time every day.
If your child is unable to swallow a pill, consult a doctor. The pharmacist can prepare this medication in liquid form for your child.
Olmesartan is a blood pressure medication that lowers but does not cure, high blood pressure. While blood pressure may begin to fall within the first week of treatment, the full effect of olmesartan may take up to two weeks to become apparent. Even if you feel fine, continue to take olmesartan. Do not stop taking olmesartan without consulting the doctor.
If you miss an olmesartan dose, take it as soon as possible. However, if your next dose is approaching, skip the missed dose but do not combine two doses at once. Before taking olmesartan, inform the doctor about all the medications you are on, including prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins and herbal supplements.