Benicar HCT

Benicar HCT is FDA-approved for:

• Treatment of Hypertension: To lower blood pressure in patients who may benefit from combination therapy or who are not adequately controlled with monotherapy.

Benicar HCT is contraindicated in patients with:

• Known hypersensitivity to olmesartan, hydrochlorothiazide, or any component of the product.
• Anuria (inability to urinate).
• Severe renal impairment or a history of renal failure.
• Hypersensitivity to sulfonamide-derived drugs (as hydrochlorothiazide is a sulfonamide).
• Pregnancy, especially during the second and third trimesters, due to the risk of fetal harm.

Patients using Benicar HCT should be advised to:

• Take the medication exactly as prescribed, and do not skip doses even if they feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms, so it is important to continue taking the medication to control blood pressure.
• Monitor their blood pressure regularly at home and keep a record to share with their healthcare provider.
• Stay hydrated, but avoid excessive salt intake, as this can counteract the effects of the medication.
• Be aware of potential side effects, such as dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly, as this medication can lower blood pressure too much.
• Avoid alcohol, as it can increase the blood pressure-lowering effects and the risk of dizziness or fainting.
• Inform their healthcare provider if they are planning to become pregnant, as Benicar HCT can cause harm to the fetus.

Common side effects of Benicar HCT may include:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up.
• Increased urination, especially in the first few weeks of treatment.
• Nausea or stomach pain.
• Fatigue or weakness.
• Electrolyte imbalances, such as low potassium levels (hypokalemia).

Serious side effects can include:

• Severe Hypotension: Excessively low blood pressure, leading to fainting or shock.
• Kidney Problems: Worsening of kidney function, especially in patients with pre-existing kidney disease.
• Hyperkalemia: High potassium levels, particularly in patients with kidney problems or those taking potassium supplements or other medications that raise potassium.
• Angioedema: Swelling of the face, lips, throat, or tongue, which can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.

Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience severe or persistent side effects, especially symptoms indicative of kidney problems, severe hypotension, or allergic reactions.

• Fetal Toxicity: Benicar HCT can cause injury and death to a developing fetus. It should be discontinued as soon as pregnancy is detected.
• Electrolyte Imbalance: Hydrochlorothiazide can cause electrolyte imbalances, including low potassium (hypokalemia), low sodium (hyponatremia), and high calcium (hypercalcemia). Regular monitoring of electrolyte levels is recommended.
• Kidney Function: Benicar HCT can affect kidney function, particularly in patients with pre-existing kidney disease. Kidney function should be monitored regularly, and the medication should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment.

Benicar HCT may interact with other medications, including:

• Potassium Supplements and Potassium-Sparing Diuretics: Can increase the risk of hyperkalemia.
• NSAIDs: Such as ibuprofen or naproxen, which can reduce the effectiveness of Benicar HCT and increase the risk of kidney problems.
• Lithium: Concomitant use with Benicar HCT can increase lithium levels, leading to toxicity.
• Other Antihypertensive Agents: Can have additive effects, increasing the risk of hypotension.

Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications and supplements they are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Alternative treatments for hypertension include:

• Other ARB Combinations: Such as losartan/hydrochlorothiazide (Hyzaar) or valsartan/hydrochlorothiazide (Diovan HCT).
• ACE Inhibitor Combinations: Such as lisinopril/hydrochlorothiazide (Zestoretic).
• Calcium Channel Blockers: Such as amlodipine, which can be used alone or in combination with other antihypertensives.
• Beta-Blockers: Such as metoprolol, which can be used for patients with specific indications, such as heart failure or arrhythmias.

The choice of treatment depends on the patient's specific condition, response to previous treatments, and any underlying medical conditions.