Omnitan H

OMNITAN H by MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD.

OMNITAN H is a combination medication used primarily for managing high blood pressure.

Composition

OMNITAN H contains two active ingredients: Losartan Potassium (50 mg) and Hydrochlorothiazide (12.5 mg). Losartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that works by relaxing and widening blood vessels. Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic (water pill) that increases the excretion of water and salt from the body through urine.

Uses

OMNITAN H is prescribed for the treatment of:

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): It effectively lowers blood pressure, especially when a single medication is insufficient.
• Prevention of Stroke and Heart Attack: By controlling blood pressure, it reduces the risk of cardiovascular events, particularly in patients with left ventricular hypertrophy.
• Management of Edema: It helps in controlling fluid retention and swelling caused by heart, kidney, or liver diseases.
• Kidney Protection: It aids in protecting kidneys from damage in patients with diabetes and high blood pressure.

Dosage and Administration

Typically, OMNITAN H is taken once daily, with or without food, as advised by a doctor. It should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and not crushed or chewed. It is often recommended to take it in the morning to avoid frequent urination at night due to the diuretic component. Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without consulting a doctor.

Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Dizziness, lightheadedness, or weakness.
• Headache, nausea, diarrhea, or stomach pain.
• Cough or nasal congestion.
• Increased potassium levels in the blood.

Serious, though rare, side effects can include severe allergic reactions, significant kidney problems, or very low blood pressure (fainting).

Precautions

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: OMNITAN H is contraindicated during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, as it can harm the unborn baby. It is also advised against during breastfeeding.
• Allergies: Do not take if allergic to Losartan, Hydrochlorothiazide, or sulfonamide medicines.
• Medical Conditions: Use with caution in patients with kidney problems, liver disorders, diabetes, gout, or electrolyte imbalances.
• Interactions: Avoid concomitant use with alcohol (may increase dizziness), potassium supplements, or certain painkillers (NSAIDs) without medical advice.
• Driving: May cause dizziness; exercise caution while driving or operating machinery.

Storage

Store this medicine below 30°C in its original container to protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of reach of children.

Here are frequently asked questions about OMNITAN H by MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD.:

What is OMNITAN H used for?

OMNITAN H is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), especially when a single medication isn't enough to control it. It also helps reduce the risk of stroke in patients with high blood pressure and an enlarged heart (left ventricular hypertrophy). In some cases, it may also be used to manage swelling (edema) due to heart, kidney, or liver diseases and to protect the kidneys from damage caused by diabetes.

How does OMNITAN H work?

OMNITAN H is a combination medication containing Losartan and Hydrochlorothiazide. Losartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, which allows blood to flow more easily. Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic (or "water pill") that helps the body remove excess salt and water by increasing urine production, thereby lowering blood pressure and reducing fluid retention.

What is the usual dosage for OMNITAN H?

The typical dosage for OMNITAN H is once daily. It can be taken with or without food and should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. It's crucial to follow your doctor's specific instructions regarding the dosage and duration of treatment, and never adjust your dose without consulting your healthcare provider.

What are the possible side effects of OMNITAN H?

Common side effects of OMNITAN H include dizziness, headache, fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, cough, and nasal congestion. It may also lead to increased potassium levels in the blood. More severe, though rare, side effects can include severe allergic reactions, kidney problems (like changes in urination or swelling of feet/ankles), or significantly low blood pressure (fainting, extreme dizziness). If any side effects persist or worsen, you should contact your doctor.

Is OMNITAN H safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

OMNITAN H is not recommended for use during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, as it can cause fetal abnormalities and harm the unborn baby. If you become pregnant while on this medication, stop taking it and inform your doctor immediately. It is also advised not to use OMNITAN H while breastfeeding, as its components may pass into breast milk and potentially affect the baby.

Can OMNITAN H be taken with other medications?

OMNITAN H can interact with several medications. It's important to inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal preparations you are taking. Interactions can occur with blood thinners (e.g., warfarin), anti-cancer medicines, cholesterol-lowering medicines (e.g., cholestyramine), antidepressants (e.g., lithium), potassium supplements, other anti-hypertensives (e.g., furosemide, aliskiren), painkillers (e.g., NSAIDs), anti-bacterial medicines (e.g., Trimethoprim), corticosteroids, insulin, and oral antidiabetic medications. For individuals with diabetes, aliskiren should not be taken with OMNITAN H.

What precautions should be taken while taking OMNITAN H?

Several precautions should be observed when taking OMNITAN H. Avoid alcohol consumption, as it can increase the risk of low blood pressure. Do not use potassium supplements or consume potassium-rich foods (like bananas and oranges) unless advised by your doctor, as this can lead to high potassium levels. Exercise caution if you have kidney disease, liver disease, electrolyte imbalances, diabetes, gout, or a history of angioedema. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, kidney function, and electrolyte levels is recommended. Do not stop taking the medicine abruptly, as it may lead to a sudden increase in blood pressure.

What happens if a dose of OMNITAN H is missed?

If you miss a dose of OMNITAN H, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's 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 compensate for the missed one.

How should OMNITAN H be stored?

OMNITAN H should be stored below 30°C. Keep the medicine in its original container to protect it from light and moisture. It should be kept out of the sight and reach of children.