Olkem Am 40 Mg Tablet (15 Tab)

OLKEM AM 40 MG TABLET

Olkem AM 40 MG Tablet is a combination medication prescribed for the management of high blood pressure. Manufactured by Alkem Laboratories Ltd., it is designed to provide comprehensive blood pressure control for adults whose condition is not adequately managed by either of its individual components alone.

Composition

Each tablet contains:

• Olmesartan Medoxomil: 40 mg (an Angiotensin Receptor Blocker - ARB)
• Amlodipine: 5 mg (a Calcium Channel Blocker - CCB)

Uses

Olkem AM 40 MG Tablet is primarily used for:

• The management of hypertension (high blood pressure) in adults.
• Reducing the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes associated with hypertension.

Dosage and Administration

• Take Olkem AM 40 MG Tablet exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush, chew, or break it.
• It can be taken with or without food, preferably at a fixed time each day to ensure consistent blood pressure control.
• Your doctor may suggest taking the first dose before bedtime due to potential dizziness.
• Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor, as it can cause blood pressure to rise.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Peripheral oedema (swelling of ankles or feet)
• Dizziness
• Fatigue or tiredness
• Headache
• Nausea, abdominal pain, or upset stomach
• Cough, sore throat, runny nose
• Muscle spasms, joint pain (arthralgia)

Serious side effects, though less common, require immediate medical attention:

• Severe allergic reactions (e.g., skin rash with itching, swelling of face, mouth, or larynx)
• Signs of hypotension (severe dizziness, light-headedness, fainting)
• Severe, persistent diarrhea with substantial weight loss
• Yellowing of the whites of the eyes, dark urine, and itching of the skin (indicating liver issues)
• Symptoms of high potassium levels (nausea, diarrhea, muscle weakness, change in heart rhythm)

Precautions

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Olkem AM 40 MG Tablet is generally not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the developing baby and is probably unsafe during breastfeeding.
• Allergies: Do not take if you have known hypersensitivity to amlodipine, olmesartan, or any other components of the tablet.
• Medical Conditions: Use with caution if you have severe liver disease, kidney problems, diabetes (especially if taking Aliskiren), low blood pressure, cardiogenic shock, or aortic stenosis. Regular monitoring of kidney function, blood pressure, and electrolytes may be advised.
• Alcohol: Limit alcohol consumption, as it may enhance the blood pressure-lowowering effect and increase the risk of side effects.
• Driving and Machinery: This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen), other RAS blockers (e.g., aliskiren, enalapril), lithium, and potassium supplements, as interactions can occur.
• Food Interactions: Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as it can unpredictably decrease blood pressure. Avoid potassium-rich foods and potassium-containing salt substitutes without consulting your doctor.
• Children and Elderly: Not recommended for use in children and adolescents under 18 years. Use with caution in elderly patients, as they may be more susceptible to side effects.

Storage

• Store below 30°C in a cool and dry place.
• Protect from moisture and light.
• Keep out of the sight and reach of children and pets.

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about OLKEM AM 40 MG TABLET:

What is OLKEM AM 40 MG TABLET used for?

OLKEM AM 40 MG TABLET is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults. It is prescribed for patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled by either amlodipine or olmesartan alone. By lowering blood pressure, it helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.

How does OLKEM AM 40 MG TABLET work?

This medicine is a combination of two active ingredients: Amlodipine (a calcium channel blocker) and Olmesartan (an angiotensin II receptor blocker, or ARB). Amlodipine works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more smoothly. Olmesartan blocks the action of angiotensin II, a hormone that narrows blood vessels, thereby causing them to relax. Together, they effectively reduce high blood pressure and make it easier for the heart to pump blood throughout the body.

What is the usual dosage of OLKEM AM 40 MG TABLET?

The dosage of OLKEM AM 40 MG TABLET should be taken exactly as directed by your doctor. It can be taken with or without food, but it is recommended to take it at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level in your blood. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet; swallow it whole with a glass of water. The dose may vary based on your condition, response to the medicine, age, and other medical factors.

What are the possible side effects of OLKEM AM 40 MG TABLET?

Common side effects include peripheral edema (swelling in ankles or feet), dizziness, headache, fatigue, nausea, muscle spasms, vertigo, abdominal pain, cough, and joint pain. If any of these side effects persist or worsen, you should consult your doctor. Serious side effects can include severe allergic reactions, very low blood pressure (hypotension), persistent diarrhea with substantial weight loss, and signs of liver problems (yellowing of eyes, dark urine).

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

OLKEM AM 40 MG TABLET is generally contraindicated during pregnancy, especially after the first three months, as it can cause serious harm to the developing baby. If you are pregnant or planning to conceive, discuss this with your doctor before starting this medication. It is also not recommended during breastfeeding, as components of the medicine may pass into breast milk, and its effect on infants is not well-known. Your doctor may suggest a safer alternative if you are breastfeeding.

Can it be taken with other medications?

OLKEM AM 40 MG TABLET can interact with certain medications. It is crucial to inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal preparations you are currently taking. For instance, Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen may reduce its blood pressure-lowering effect and increase the risk of kidney problems. Taking it with other Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) blockers (e.g., aliskiren, enalapril) or lithium can also lead to adverse effects like low blood pressure, high potassium levels, or increased lithium toxicity.

What precautions should be taken?

Before taking OLKEM AM 40 MG TABLET, inform your doctor if you have diabetes, severe liver disease, kidney problems, heart conditions (like severe coronary artery disease, heart failure, or aortic stenosis), or high potassium levels. Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as it can increase the levels of amlodipine in your blood, leading to an unpredictable decrease in blood pressure. This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Alcohol consumption is generally discouraged as it can further lower blood pressure. Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor, as this can cause your blood pressure to rise.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of OLKEM AM 40 MG TABLET, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosage schedule. Do not take a double dose to compensate for the missed one. Missing doses can lead to a rise in blood pressure.

How should it be stored?

OLKEM AM 40 MG TABLET should be stored in a cool and dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children and pets. Store it below 30°C.