Olkem 20 Mg Tablet (15 Tab)

OLKEM 20 MG TABLET

OLKEM 20 MG TABLET, manufactured by Alkem Laboratories Ltd., is a medication primarily used for managing hypertension, also known as high blood pressure.

• Name: Olkem 20 Tablet (Brand Name)
• Composition: Each tablet contains 20 mg of Olmesartan Medoxomil as the active ingredient. Olmesartan Medoxomil is a prodrug that converts to olmesartan in the body.
• Uses: Olkem 20 Tablet is prescribed for:
  • Treating hypertension (high blood pressure) in adults and children aged 6 years and above. Lowering blood pressure helps prevent future heart attacks and strokes.
  • Preserving kidney function in patients with diabetes. It works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more smoothly and reducing the strain on the heart.
• Dosage and Administration: The typical starting adult dose is 20 mg once daily, which may be increased to a maximum of 40 mg once daily based on blood pressure response. It can be taken with or without food, preferably at the same time each day for consistent effectiveness. It is crucial not to stop the medication suddenly.
• Side Effects: Common side effects include dizziness, headache, nausea, diarrhea, indigestion, stomach pain, cough, flu-like symptoms, and sore throat. Serious side effects are rare but can include severe light-headedness or fainting due to reduced blood pressure, and allergic reactions.
• Precautions:
  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: It is unsafe during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy and generally not recommended for breastfeeding mothers.
  • Kidney and Liver Conditions: Use with caution in patients with kidney or liver disease, with regular monitoring of kidney function and potassium levels.
  • Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it may cause excessive drowsiness and further lower blood pressure.
  • Other Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, especially other antihypertensive drugs or NSAIDs, as interactions can occur. It may cause dizziness, so caution is advised when driving or operating machinery.
• Storage: Store below 30°C, protected from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep out of sight and reach of children.

Here are the frequently asked questions about OLKEM 20 MG Tablet:

What is OLKEM 20 MG Tablet used for?

OLKEM 20 MG Tablet is primarily used to treat high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. By lowering blood pressure, it helps reduce the risk of serious complications such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney problems. It can also help preserve kidney function in patients with diabetes.

How does OLKEM 20 MG Tablet work?

OLKEM 20 MG Tablet contains Olmesartan medoxomil, which is a type of medicine called 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 hormone, Olkem 20 MG Tablet helps relax and widen the blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more smoothly and effectively, thereby lowering blood pressure.

What is the usual dosage for OLKEM 20 MG Tablet?

For adults, the typical starting dose of OLKEM 20 MG Tablet is 20 mg taken once daily. Your doctor may adjust the dose, potentially increasing it to a maximum of 40 mg once daily, depending on your blood pressure response. It can be taken with or without food, but it is recommended to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent medication levels.

What are the possible side effects of OLKEM 20 MG Tablet?

Common side effects may include dizziness, headache, nausea, indigestion, diarrhea, stomach pain, and sore throat. Other reported side effects include cough, flu-like symptoms, runny nose, back pain, bronchitis, joint pain, and a feeling of spinning (vertigo). Most of these side effects are usually temporary and resolve as your body adjusts to the medication. If any side effects persist or worsen, you should consult your doctor.

Is OLKEM 20 MG Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

No, OLKEM 20 MG Tablet is generally not considered safe during pregnancy, especially after the first three months, as it can cause serious harm to the unborn baby. If you become pregnant while taking this medicine, you should stop immediately and consult your doctor. It is also not recommended for use in breastfeeding women.

Can OLKEM 20 MG Tablet be taken with other medications?

OLKEM 20 MG Tablet can interact with several other medications. It's crucial to inform your doctor about all prescription and non-prescription drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking.

• Other blood pressure-lowering medicines: Taking it with medications like aliskiren or ACE inhibitors (e.g., enalapril, lisinopril) can increase the risk of low blood pressure or kidney problems.
• NSAIDs: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or aspirin can reduce the blood pressure-lowering effects of OLKEM 20 MG Tablet and may increase the risk of kidney problems.
• Potassium supplements: Concomitant use with potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., amiloride, spironolactone) can lead to increased potassium levels in the blood.
• Lithium: It may also interact with anti-maniac agents like lithium.

What precautions should be taken while taking OLKEM 20 MG Tablet?

It is important to inform your doctor if you have kidney problems, liver disease, heart conditions, or diabetes before starting this medicine. Your doctor may conduct regular tests to monitor your kidney function, blood pressure, and potassium levels. Alcohol consumption should be avoided as it can enhance the blood pressure-lowering effects and cause dizziness. Since this medicine can cause dizziness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.

What happens if a dose of OLKEM 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 the missed one.

How should OLKEM 20 MG Tablet be stored?

OLKEM 20 MG Tablet should be stored in a cool, dry place, protected from moisture and heat. The ideal storage temperature is below 30°C. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children and pets. Always check the expiry date and do not use the medicine if it has expired.