Olmezest H 20 Mg Tablet (10 Tab)

OLMEZEST H 20 MG TABLET

OLMEZEST H 20 MG TABLET is a combination medication primarily used for the management of high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults. It is manufactured by SUN PHARMA LABORATORIES LTD..

Composition

Each tablet of OLMEZEST H 20 MG TABLET contains two active ingredients:

• Olmesartan Medoxomil (20 mg): An angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB).
• Hydrochlorothiazide (12.5 mg): A thiazide diuretic (water pill).

Uses

OLMEZEST H 20 MG TABLET is prescribed for:

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): It helps to lower high blood pressure, especially when a single medication is not sufficient.
• Reducing Risk of Cardiovascular Events: By controlling blood pressure, it helps reduce the risk of associated complications like heart attack, stroke, and kidney problems.
• Fluid Retention: It can also help control fluid retention and edema associated with hypertension by promoting urine production.

Dosage and Administration

• The usual starting dose is often one tablet (20/12.5 mg) once daily.
• Dosing should be individualized and may be titrated by a doctor at intervals of 2-4 weeks based on blood pressure response.
• The tablet can be taken with or without food, but it is recommended to take it at the same time each day for consistent effect.
• It is advisable to avoid taking this medicine within four hours of going to bed due to its diuretic effect, which increases urination.
• Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet; swallow it whole with a glass of water.
• Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor, even if your blood pressure is controlled, as hypertension is a chronic condition.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness.
• Headache.
• Weakness, tiredness, or fatigue.
• Nausea, upset stomach, or diarrhea.
• Increased urination (due to diuretic effect).
• Electrolyte imbalance (e.g., decreased blood pressure, dehydration, hypokalemia, hyponatremia).

Serious Side Effects (Consult your doctor immediately if you experience):

• Severe allergic reactions (skin rash, itching, swelling of face, mouth, and/or throat).
• Painful joints.
• Fast heart beat or changes in heart rhythm.
• Shortness of breath or tightness in the chest.
• Aching, tender, or weak muscles not caused by exercise.
• Yellowing of the whites of the eyes, dark urine, and itching of the skin (liver problems).
• Severe persistent diarrhea with substantial weight loss.
• Painful eyes or decrease in vision.

Precautions

• Pregnancy: OLMEZEST H 20 MG TABLET is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, as it can cause serious harm to the developing baby.
• Breastfeeding: It is generally not recommended during breastfeeding due to limited information on its safety. Consult your doctor if you are breastfeeding.
• Allergies: Do not take if you are allergic to olmesartan, hydrochlorothiazide, or any sulfonamide-derived medications.
• Kidney/Liver Disease: Use with caution in patients with severe kidney disease or mild to moderate liver impairment. It is not recommended in severe liver disease or severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance ≤ 30 ml/min).
• Diabetes: If you have diabetes and are taking other blood pressure-lowering pills like 'aliskiren', immediately stop taking both together and consult a doctor.
• Electrolyte Imbalance: Regular monitoring of serum electrolytes is recommended. Avoid potassium salt substitutes or supplements unless advised by your doctor to prevent hyperkalemia.
• Alcohol: Limit alcohol consumption, as it can increase side effects like dizziness and low blood pressure.
• Surgery: Inform your doctor before any surgery if you are taking this medicine, as it may need to be stopped due to potential for further lowering blood pressure with anesthesia.
• Sun Exposure: Long-term use of hydrochlorothiazide can increase the risk of certain types of skin and lip cancer; protect your skin from sun exposure or UV rays.

Storage

Store OLMEZEST H 20 MG TABLET at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.

What is OLMEZEST H 20 MG TABLET used for?

OLMEZEST H 20 MG TABLET is primarily used for the treatment of essential hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, in adults. It can be used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents to effectively lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of associated cardiovascular events like heart attack and stroke.

How does OLMEZEST H 20 MG TABLET work?

This medicine is a combination of two active ingredients: Olmesartan Medoxomil and Hydrochlorothiazide. Olmesartan Medoxomil is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that works by relaxing and widening your blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily. Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic (often called a "water pill") that helps your body eliminate excess salt and water through increased urine output, which also contributes to lowering blood pressure.

What is the usual dosage for OLMEZEST H 20 MG TABLET?

The typical starting dose is one 20/12.5 mg tablet once daily. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your blood pressure response, usually at intervals of 2-4 weeks. It can be taken with or without food, but it is recommended to take it at the same time each day for consistent effects. Since it contains a diuretic, it's often advised to avoid taking it within four hours of bedtime to prevent frequent urination during the night.

What are the possible side effects of OLMEZEST H 20 MG TABLET?

Common side effects include dizziness, headache, weakness, tiredness, nausea, and increased urination. Other reported side effects can include hyperuricemia (increased uric acid levels), upper respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, chest pain, back pain, swelling (edema) of hands, feet, or ankles, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and cough. If you experience serious side effects such as severe allergic reactions, persistent severe diarrhea with weight loss, or changes in vision, seek immediate medical attention.

Is OLMEZEST H 20 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

OLMEZEST H 20 MG TABLET is generally not recommended during pregnancy as there is clear evidence of risk to the developing baby. It is considered unsafe for use during pregnancy and should be discontinued if pregnancy occurs or is planned. Similarly, its safety during breastfeeding has not been established, and it is generally advised to avoid this medicine while breastfeeding or to stop nursing.

Can OLMEZEST H 20 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

You should inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking. Caution is advised when taking OLMEZEST H 20 MG TABLET with other blood pressure-lowering medications (especially aliskiren and ACE-inhibitors), certain diuretics, potassium supplements, heparin, antidiabetic drugs, corticosteroids, ACTH, and lithium, as interactions can occur. Alcohol consumption should be avoided as it can further lower blood pressure and increase the risk of dizziness.

What precautions should be taken while using OLMEZEST H 20 MG TABLET?

Regular monitoring of serum electrolytes is important to detect potential imbalances. Use with caution in patients with severe kidney disease (it's not recommended if creatinine clearance is below 30 ml/min) or mild to moderate liver impairment, as well as in individuals with diabetes or heart conditions. Protect your skin from sun exposure, as long-term use may increase the risk of certain skin and lip cancers. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience dizziness or tiredness.

What happens if a dose of OLMEZEST H 20 MG TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this can lead to low blood pressure.

How should OLMEZEST H 20 MG TABLET be stored?

OLMEZEST H 20 MG TABLET should be stored in a cool place, away from excessive light and moisture, and typically below 30°C.