Olmesar Ch 20 Tablet

OLMESAR CH 20 TABLET

OLMESAR CH 20 TABLET by MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS PVT LTD is a combination medicine prescribed for the treatment of high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. It works by relaxing blood vessels and helping the body to remove excess water and electrolytes. This action lowers fluid overload and blood pressure, thereby improving blood flow and reducing the risk of heart attack, stroke, or kidney problems.

Composition

• Active Ingredients: Each tablet contains Olmesartan Medoxomil (20 mg) and Chlorthalidone (12.5 mg).
  • Olmesartan Medoxomil is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) that relaxes blood vessels.
  • Chlorthalidone is a thiazide-like diuretic ("water pill") that increases the excretion of sodium and water from the body.

Uses

• Treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure).
• It is often used when a single medicine is not effective in controlling blood pressure.

Dosage and Administration

• Typically, one tablet is taken once daily, with or without food.
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush, chew, or break it.
• It is advisable to take it at the same time each day for consistent effects.
• The first dose might be suggested before bedtime due to potential dizziness.

Side Effects

• Common Side Effects: Headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, upset stomach, diarrhea, increased blood uric acid (hyperuricemia), low potassium levels (hypokalaemia), low sodium levels (hyponatraemia), and low chloride levels (hypochloremia).
• Serious Side Effects: Skin rash or itchiness, painful joints, fast heartbeat, shortness of breath, chest tightness, aching/tender/weak muscles, swelling of hands/feet/ankles, and symptoms indicating high potassium levels (nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness, changes in heart rhythm).

Precautions

• Contraindications: Do not take if allergic to its components, if blood pressure is very low (below 90 mm Hg), or if you have severe kidney disease, liver disease, or certain heart problems (cardiogenic shock, aortic stenosis). It is also contraindicated in the latter half of pregnancy.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Unsafe during pregnancy due to definite risk to the developing baby. Consult a doctor if breastfeeding, as it may pass into breast milk.
• Interactions: Avoid alcohol as it may worsen blood pressure-lowering effects and dizziness. Caution is advised with other blood pressure-lowering medicines, potassium supplements, NSAIDs, and lithium. Inform your doctor about all medications and pre-existing conditions (e.g., diabetes, gout, kidney or liver problems).
• General Warnings: May cause dehydration; drink plenty of fluids. Dizziness may occur, so rise slowly from sitting or lying positions. Do not stop the medication abruptly.

Storage

• Store below 30°C.
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

OLMESAR CH 20 TABLET is a combination medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It contains two active ingredients: Olmesartan medoxomil and Chlorthalidone.

Here are some frequently asked questions about OLMESAR CH 20 TABLET:

What is Olmesar CH 20 Tablet used for?

Olmesar CH 20 Tablet is primarily used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). It is often prescribed when a single medication is not sufficient to control blood pressure or as an initial therapy for patients who may need multiple medications. Lowering blood pressure helps reduce the risk of serious conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney problems.

How does Olmesar CH 20 Tablet work?

This medicine works through the combined action of its two components:

• Olmesartan medoxomil is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB). It works by blocking the hormone angiotensin II, which causes blood vessels to narrow. By blocking this hormone, olmesartan relaxes and widens blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more smoothly and the heart to pump more efficiently.
• Chlorthalidone is a diuretic, also known as a "water pill." It increases the amount of urine passed out from the kidneys, which helps remove extra water and certain electrolytes from the body. This action reduces fluid overload and helps lower blood pressure.

What is the usual dosage of Olmesar CH 20 Tablet?

The dosage of Olmesar CH 20 Tablet is determined by your doctor based on your medical condition. For adults, the initial dose is typically one tablet once daily. If blood pressure is not adequately controlled by olmesartan alone, a starting dose of Olmesartan 20 mg/Hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg once daily may be prescribed. The dose can be adjusted after 2 to 4 weeks, with a maximum of Olmesartan 40 mg/Hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg per day. It should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and can be taken with or without food.

What are the possible side effects of Olmesar CH 20 Tablet?

Common side effects may include headache, nausea, dizziness, stomach upset, diarrhea, and fatigue. This medicine may also cause increased urination as it removes excess water from the body. More serious side effects, though rare, can include unexplained muscle pain or weakness, eye pain or vision problems, signs of kidney problems (little or no urination, swelling in feet or ankles), or symptoms of electrolyte imbalance (such as low sodium or potassium levels, confusion, muscle cramps, or irregular heartbeats). If any side effects persist or worsen, it's important to consult your doctor.

Is Olmesar CH 20 Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Olmesar CH 20 Tablet is generally considered unsafe during pregnancy, particularly in the later stages, as it can cause harm or death to the developing fetus. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, you should stop taking it immediately and contact your doctor.

For breastfeeding mothers, Olmesar CH 20 Tablet is not recommended. Chlorthalidone, one of its components, is known to pass into breast milk, and its effect on the baby is not fully known.

Can it be taken with other medications?

Olmesar CH 20 Tablet can interact with various medications. It's crucial to inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.

• Aliskiren: Co-administration with aliskiren (especially in diabetic or kidney-impaired patients) is not recommended as it may increase the risk of kidney damage and other side effects.
• Potassium Supplements/Potassium-Sparing Diuretics: Taking these with Olmesar CH 20 Tablet can increase potassium levels in the blood (hyperkalemia), which can be dangerous.
• NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): Medicines like ibuprofen or naproxen may reduce the blood pressure-lowering effect and increase the risk of kidney problems.
• Lithium: Olmesar CH 20 Tablet can increase lithium levels, potentially leading to toxicity.
• Other Blood Pressure Medications: Combining with certain other blood pressure medications (e.g., ACE inhibitors like ramipril, enalapril, lisinopril) can increase the risk of low blood pressure, kidney problems, and high potassium levels.

What precautions should be taken?

• Kidney and Liver Conditions: Use with caution if you have kidney or liver problems, as dosage adjustments may be necessary, and the medication could worsen these conditions.
• Dehydration: This medicine can cause dehydration, especially with severe diarrhea or vomiting, which can lead to low blood pressure and electrolyte imbalances. Maintain proper fluid intake.
• Diabetes: Olmesar CH 20 Tablet should be used with caution in diabetic patients, as it may affect blood sugar levels.
• Low Blood Pressure: It should not be given to individuals with very low blood pressure.
• Surgery: Inform your doctor if you are taking this medicine before any surgery, as it might need to be stopped temporarily.
• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol, as it can further lower blood pressure and increase side effects like dizziness.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: Be aware that the medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue, so avoid activities requiring alertness until you know how it affects you.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of Olmesar CH 20 Tablet, 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, as this can lead to excessively low blood pressure.

How should it be stored?

Store Olmesar CH 20 Tablet in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children. Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Can I stop taking Olmesar CH 20 Tablet if my blood pressure is controlled?

No, it is important to continue taking Olmesar CH 20 Tablet as prescribed by your doctor, even if your blood pressure is under control. High blood pressure is a chronic condition that is controlled, not cured, by medication. Suddenly stopping the medication can cause your blood pressure to rise again, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Your doctor will gradually lower your dose if discontinuation is necessary.