Olsar A 40 Mg Tablet (10 Tab)

OLSAR A 40 MG TABLET

OLSAR A 40 MG TABLET, manufactured by Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd., is a combination medication designed for the effective management of high blood pressure (hypertension).

Composition Each tablet contains:

• Olmesartan Medoxomil: 40 mg (an Angiotensin Receptor Blocker - ARB)
• Amlodipine: 5 mg (a Calcium Channel Blocker - CCB)

Uses OLSAR A 40 MG TABLET is primarily prescribed for:

• Management of high blood pressure in adults, particularly when blood pressure is not adequately controlled by either amlodipine or olmesartan alone.
• Reducing the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes associated with hypertension.
• It also contributes to preserving kidney function in patients with diabetes by controlling blood pressure.

Dosage and Administration

• Take OLSAR A 40 MG TABLET as directed by your physician, usually once daily.
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush, chew, or break it.
• It can be taken with or without food.
• For optimal effectiveness, it is crucial to take the medicine at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels.
• Your doctor will determine the correct dose and duration based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
• Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor.

Side Effects Common Side Effects:

• Swelling in ankles or feet (peripheral oedema)
• Dizziness, headache, fatigue/tiredness, sleepiness
• Nausea, abdominal pain, indigestion, diarrhea, constipation, upset stomach
• Sore throat, runny nose, cough
• Muscle spasms, taste change

Serious Side Effects (seek immediate medical attention if experienced):

• Severe allergic reactions (skin rash with itching, swelling of the face, mouth, and/or larynx)
• Signs of very low blood pressure (severe dizziness or light-headedness, fainting)
• Severe, persistent diarrhea with substantial weight loss
• Yellowing of the whites of the eyes (jaundice), dark urine, and itching of the skin
• Painful joints, fast heartbeat, shortness of breath, or tightness in the chest
• Aching, tender, or weak muscles not caused by exercise
• Symptoms of high potassium levels (nausea, diarrhea, muscle weakness, changes in heart rhythm)

Precautions

• Contraindications: Do not use if you are allergic to any components, are more than 3 months pregnant, have severe liver disease, low blood pressure (hypotension), cardiogenic shock, or aortic stenosis.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: OLSAR A 40 MG TABLET is contraindicated during pregnancy and generally not recommended during breastfeeding. Consult your doctor.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor if you have kidney problems, diabetes (especially if taking Aliskiren), heart disease (e.g., congestive heart failure, severe coronary artery disease), or high potassium levels.
• Drug Interactions:
  • Avoid concurrent use with Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, and other Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) blockers (e.g., aliskiren, enalapril) due to increased risks of side effects.
  • Caution is advised with lithium, CYP3A inhibitors (e.g., erythromycin), statins (e.g., simvastatin), antacids, bile acid sequestrants, anti-viral agents, antifungal agents, immunosuppressants, anticoagulants, other calcium channel blockers, and skeletal muscle relaxants.
  • Taking with potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., triamterene) or benazepril may increase potassium levels.
• Food Interactions: Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice as they can increase amlodipine levels, leading to an unpredictable drop in blood pressure. Avoid potassium-containing salt substitutes or supplements and potassium-rich foods.
• Driving and Alcohol: This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you. Alcohol consumption is unsafe with this medicine.
• Children and Elderly: Not recommended for children under 18 years of age. Use with caution in elderly patients (aged 65 years or older).
• Regular monitoring of kidney function, blood pressure, and electrolyte levels (e.g., potassium) is recommended during treatment.

Storage

• Store below 30°C (or below 25°C) in a cool and dry place, protected from moisture and heat.
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children and pets.

OLSAR A 40 MG TABLET (10 TAB): Frequently Asked Questions

What is OLSAR A 40 MG TABLET used for?

OLSAR A 40 MG TABLET is primarily used to treat high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. It is typically prescribed to adults whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled by either amlodipine or olmesartan alone. Lowering blood pressure helps reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.

How does OLSAR A 40 MG TABLET work?

This medicine is a combination of two active ingredients: Olmesartan Medoxomil and Amlodipine. Olmesartan Medoxomil is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) that works by blocking a hormone called angiotensin II, which normally causes blood vessels to narrow. By blocking its action, blood vessels relax and widen, leading to a reduction in blood pressure. Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker (CCB) that relaxes heart muscles and blood vessels by limiting calcium movement into their cells. This dual action helps to lower blood pressure more effectively and makes it easier for the heart to pump blood throughout the body.

What is the usual dosage for OLSAR A 40 MG TABLET?

OLSAR A 40 MG TABLET is usually taken once daily. The exact dosage and duration of treatment will be determined by your doctor based on your specific health condition and how your body responds to the medicine. It can be taken with or without food, but it is important to take it at approximately the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels. Do not exceed the dose advised by your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of OLSAR A 40 MG TABLET?

Common side effects can include dizziness, headache, fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, cough, joint pain, sleepiness, upset stomach, and swelling in the ankles or feet (edema). More serious, though less common, side effects can include severe allergic reactions (such as skin rash with itching and swelling of the face, mouth, and/or larynx), severe dizziness or light-headedness, fainting, severe persistent diarrhea with substantial weight loss, yellowing of the whites of the eyes, dark urine, itching of the skin, or symptoms of high potassium levels (like nausea, diarrhea, muscle weakness, and changes in heart rhythm). If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, you should consult your doctor immediately.

Is OLSAR A 40 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Pregnancy: OLSAR A 40 MG TABLET is not recommended during early pregnancy and must not be taken if you are more than 3 months pregnant, as it may cause serious harm to the unborn baby. If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, it is crucial to consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Breastfeeding: It is important to consult your doctor before starting OLSAR A 40 MG TABLET if you are breastfeeding, as it is generally not recommended and could affect your baby.

Can OLSAR A 40 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

OLSAR A 40 MG TABLET can interact with several other medications. For example, taking it with potassium-boosting agents (like potassium supplements or certain diuretics) can increase the risk of high potassium levels. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) may reduce its blood pressure-lowering effect and increase the risk of kidney problems. Concomitant use with other renin-angiotensin system (RAS) inhibitors (such as aliskiren or ACE inhibitors) is generally not recommended due to increased risks of low blood pressure, high potassium, and kidney impairment. If you are taking bile acid sequestrants (like colesevelam), it's advisable to take OLSAR A at least 4 hours before them to ensure proper absorption. Inform your doctor about all other medicines, supplements, or herbal preparations you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.

What precautions should be taken while taking OLSAR A 40 MG TABLET?

Before taking this medicine, inform your doctor if you have any liver, kidney, or heart problems, diabetes, low blood volume, or electrolyte imbalances. Your doctor may regularly monitor your kidney function, blood pressure, and potassium levels during treatment. Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as this can lead to an unpredictable decrease in blood pressure. Limiting alcohol intake is also advised, as it can further lower blood pressure or interfere with the medicine's effectiveness. Since this medication can cause dizziness or sleepiness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. It's also recommended to rise slowly from a sitting or lying position to prevent dizziness. Do not stop taking OLSAR A 40 MG TABLET suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to a rise in blood pressure.

What happens if a dose of OLSAR A 40 MG TABLET is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one. Missing a dose may lead to a temporary rise in blood pressure.

How should OLSAR A 40 MG TABLET be stored?

OLSAR A 40 MG TABLET should be stored in a cool and dry place, protected from moisture and heat. Keep it out of sight and reach of children. Typically, it should be stored below 25°C or 30°C.