Olkem Am 20 Mg Tablet (15 Tab)

OLKEM AM 20 MG Tablet

OLKEM AM 20 MG Tablet is a combination medication primarily prescribed for the effective management of high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. It is manufactured by Alkem Laboratories Ltd.. This medication is often recommended for patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled by either of its active ingredients alone. By lowering high blood pressure, OLKEM AM 20 MG Tablet helps to reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney problems.

Composition Each tablet contains:

• Olmesartan Medoxomil: 20 mg
• Amlodipine (as Amlodipine Besylate): 5 mg

Olmesartan Medoxomil is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that works by blocking a hormone which causes blood vessels to narrow, thus relaxing them. Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker (CCB) that relaxes and widens blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood throughout the body.

Uses

• Treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure).
• Reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke.
• Helps prevent kidney damage associated with high blood pressure.

Dosage and Administration OLKEM AM 20 MG Tablet is typically taken orally once daily. It can be consumed with or without food, but it is recommended to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood pressure control. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and not crushed, chewed, or broken. Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor, even if you feel well. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage based on your condition and response to treatment. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, in which case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Side Effects Common side effects may include:

• Dizziness, headache, fatigue, sleepiness
• Ankle or feet swelling (peripheral edema)
• Nausea, upset stomach, diarrhea, constipation
• Flushing (a sense of warmth in the face, ears, neck, and trunk)
• Palpitations

Serious side effects, though less common, can include severe allergic reactions (e.g., skin rash with itching and swelling of the face), severe dizziness or light-headedness, fainting, yellowing of the eyes or dark urine, and symptoms indicating high potassium levels (e.g., muscle weakness, changes in heart rhythm). If any severe or persistent side effects occur, consult your doctor immediately.

Precautions

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: OLKEM AM 20 MG Tablet is not recommended during pregnancy, particularly in the second and third trimesters, as it can harm the developing baby. It is also generally not advised during breastfeeding.
• Alcohol: Caution is advised with alcohol consumption as it may enhance dizziness and lower blood pressure.
• Liver/Kidney Conditions: Patients with liver or kidney problems should use this medication with caution, and dosage adjustments may be necessary. Regular monitoring of kidney function and blood pressure is recommended.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: This medication can cause dizziness or sleepiness; therefore, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as interactions can occur with diuretics, potassium supplements, NSAIDs, certain antibiotics, and grapefruit juice. Avoid potassium-containing salt substitutes.
• Contraindications: Do not use if you have very low blood pressure (hypotension), cardiogenic shock, or are allergic to any of its components.

Storage Store OLKEM AM 20 MG Tablet in a cool, dry place, protected from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.

Here are frequently asked questions about OLKEM AM 20 MG TABLET:

What is OLKEM AM 20 MG TABLET used for?

OLKEM AM 20 MG TABLET is primarily used to manage high blood pressure (hypertension). By effectively lowering blood pressure, it helps reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney problems.

How does OLKEM AM 20 MG TABLET work?

This medicine contains two active ingredients: Olmesartan Medoxomil (20mg) and Amlodipine (5mg). Olmesartan Medoxomil is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that works by blocking a hormone that causes blood vessels to narrow, thus relaxing them. Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker that also relaxes and widens blood vessels. Together, these actions allow blood to flow more smoothly, reduce the heart's workload, and effectively lower blood pressure.

What is the usual dosage for OLKEM AM 20 MG TABLET?

The typical dosage is one tablet once a day, taken orally with a glass of water. It can be taken with or without food, but it is recommended to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood pressure control. Your doctor will determine the exact dosage based on your medical condition and how you respond to the treatment.

What are the possible side effects of OLKEM AM 20 MG TABLET?

Common side effects include dizziness, headache, fatigue, nausea, and swelling of the feet, ankles, or hands (edema). Some people may also experience sleepiness. If these side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor. More serious, though rare, side effects can include very low blood pressure, painful joints, fast heartbeat, and changes in heart rhythm or muscle weakness indicating high potassium levels.

Is OLKEM AM 20 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

OLKEM AM 20 MG TABLET is generally not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, as it may harm the unborn baby. If you become pregnant while taking this medicine, stop immediately and consult your doctor for a safer alternative. It is also not recommended during breastfeeding, as components of the medicine may pass into breast milk and potentially affect the infant.

Can OLKEM AM 20 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

OLKEM AM 20 MG TABLET can interact with certain medications. Inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal preparations you are currently taking. Particular caution is advised with diuretics (water pills), potassium supplements, potassium-sparing diuretics, and Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, as these can increase the risk of side effects or reduce the effectiveness of OLKEM AM.

What precautions should be taken while taking OLKEM AM 20 MG TABLET?

You should avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice as it can increase the levels of amlodipine in your blood, potentially leading to an unpredictable decrease in blood pressure. Alcohol consumption should be limited or avoided, as it can enhance dizziness and further lower blood pressure. If you have liver or kidney problems, or certain heart conditions, your doctor may need to adjust the dosage or monitor you more closely. This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor, as this can cause your blood pressure to rise.

What happens if a dose of OLKEM AM 20 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 dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should OLKEM AM 20 MG TABLET be stored?

Store the tablets in a cool, dry place, typically below 30 degrees Celsius, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep the medicine out of sight and reach of children and pets.