OLMESARTAN
Olmesartan blocks the angiotensin II receptor, preventing the hormone that tightens blood vessels from acting. The arteries relax and blood pressure falls, with the effect lasting a full day from a single dose.
What Olmesartan Is Used For
- High blood pressure
- Combination treatment with a diuretic or calcium channel blocker
- Kidney protection in diabetes, on medical advice
Common Side Effects
- Dizziness
- Raised potassium
- Headache
- Tiredness
Precautions
It must not be used in pregnancy. Kidney function and potassium are checked after starting and periodically. A rare but important side effect is severe chronic diarrhoea with weight loss appearing months or years into treatment, which improves on stopping, so mention this to your doctor if it happens. Avoid potassium supplements and salt substitutes unless approved.
This page is general information only. It is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist, and it does not include dosage. Always follow the directions given to you and read the leaflet inside the pack.
