Olmat 40

OLMAT 40 by MICRO LABS LTD

Name:

• Brand Name: Olmat 40
• Common Name: Olmesartan (as Olmesartan Medoxomil)

Composition: Olmat 40 contains 40 mg of Olmesartan medoxomil as its active ingredient. Olmesartan medoxomil is a prodrug that is hydrolyzed to olmesartan during absorption from the gastrointestinal tract.

Uses: Olmat 40 is primarily prescribed for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure). By lowering blood pressure, it helps to reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes. This medicine is also effective in preserving kidney function in patients with diabetes.

Dosage and Administration: The typical dosage of Olmat 40 is once daily. It can be taken with or without food. Your doctor might suggest taking the first dose before bedtime, as it can cause dizziness. It is crucial to take the medicine at the same time each day to achieve maximum benefit. Do not chew, crush, or break the tablet.

Side Effects: Common side effects may include:

• Dizziness, headache
• Nausea, upset stomach, diarrhea
• Cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, flu-like symptoms
• Fatigue, unusual tiredness and weakness
• Muscle pain, joint pain or inflammation
• Indigestion

More serious, though infrequent, adverse effects can include allergic reactions (such as swelling of the face, mouth, and/or larynx), severe light-headedness, or fainting. Blood in urine and chest pain have also been reported.

Precautions:

• Pregnancy: Olmat 40 is contraindicated during pregnancy, particularly in the second and third trimesters, due to the definite risk of harm to the developing baby.
• Breastfeeding: It is probably unsafe to use Olmat 40 during breastfeeding, and a doctor should be consulted.
• Alcohol: Alcohol consumption with Olmat 40 may cause excessive drowsiness or enhance its blood pressure-lowering effect; it is advisable to limit or avoid alcohol.
• Kidney and Liver Disease: Use with caution in patients with kidney or severe liver disease, as monitoring of kidney/liver function may be necessary.
• Hypotension: Patients who are volume or salt-depleted may experience symptomatic low blood pressure (hypotension) upon initiation of treatment.
• Hyperkalemia: Monitor serum potassium levels, especially in patients with renal insufficiency, diabetes, or those concurrently using potassium-sparing diuretics or potassium supplements.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: This medicine may cause dizziness, sleepiness, or affect vision; caution should be exercised when driving or operating machinery.
• Children: Use in children under one year of age is not recommended. For children over 6 years, dosage is individualized.
• Drug Interactions: Concomitant use with other renin-angiotensin system inhibitors (e.g., ACE inhibitors, aliskiren) should be avoided in certain patient populations (e.g., diabetics taking aliskiren). Bile acid sequestrants may reduce the absorption of olmesartan; take Olmat 40 at least 4 hours before colesevelam.
• Abrupt Discontinuation: Do not stop taking Olmat 40 suddenly without consulting a doctor, as this can lead to a rise in blood pressure and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Storage: Store Olmat 40 at room temperature, protected from moisture and heat, and away from direct sunlight. Keep out of sight and reach of children. The recommended storage temperature is between 10ºC to 25ºC or below 30ºC.

Here are some frequently asked questions about OLMAT 40:

What is OLMAT 40 used for?

OLMAT 40 is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It also helps in preventing serious complications such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney problems, especially in patients with diabetes.

How does OLMAT 40 work?

OLMAT 40 contains Olmesartan medoxomil, which is an Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB). It works by blocking the action of a hormone called angiotensin II, which normally causes blood vessels to narrow. By blocking this, OLMAT 40 allows blood vessels to relax and widen, leading to lower blood pressure and improved blood flow throughout the body.

What is the usual dosage of OLMAT 40?

The usual starting dose for adults is 20 mg once daily, taken orally. Your doctor may increase the dose to 40 mg once daily if a further reduction in blood pressure is needed after two weeks. The specific dosage will be determined by your doctor based on your health condition and response to the medication.

What are the possible side effects of OLMAT 40?

Common side effects can include dizziness, headache, fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, cough, and joint pain. Other reported side effects include stomach pain, sore throat, back pain, chills, and nasal congestion. Most side effects are temporary and resolve over time. If any side effects persist or worsen, consult your doctor.

Is OLMAT 40 safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

OLMAT 40 is generally not recommended during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy due to potential risks to the unborn baby and should not be taken when more than 3 months pregnant. If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, it is crucial to consult your doctor before taking this medicine. For breastfeeding mothers, it is important to consult your doctor, as it is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women.

Can OLMAT 40 be taken with other medications?

Caution is advised when taking OLMAT 40 with certain other medications. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce its blood pressure-lowering effect and increase the risk of kidney issues. Concomitant use with other renin-angiotensin system inhibitors (like ACE inhibitors or aliskiren) can increase the risk of low blood pressure, high potassium levels, and kidney impairment. Potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics may also increase the risk of high potassium levels. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.

What precautions should be taken while on OLMAT 40?

It is advisable to limit alcohol intake as it can increase blood pressure and interfere with the medicine's effectiveness. Caution is needed if you have kidney or liver problems, low blood volume, or certain heart conditions. Your doctor may recommend regular monitoring of kidney function, blood pressure, and potassium levels. Avoid abrupt discontinuation of the medicine, as this can cause blood pressure to rise. Also, avoid potassium-rich foods and over-the-counter potassium supplements without consulting your doctor.

What happens if a dose of OLMAT 40 is missed?

If you miss a dose of OLMAT 40, 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 a missed one.

How should OLMAT 40 be stored?

OLMAT 40 tablets should be stored at room temperature, typically below 30°C, and protected from moisture and heat. Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children and pets.