Olvance Am 40 Mg Tablet (10 Tab)

OLVANCE AM 40 MG TABLET

OLVANCE AM 40 MG TABLET is a combination medication primarily used for the management of high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults. It is manufactured by Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. and is commonly referred to as Olvance-AM 40 Tablet.

Composition

Each tablet contains two active ingredients:

• Amlodipine (5 mg): A calcium channel blocker that works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, reducing the resistance against which the heart has to pump.
• Olmesartan Medoxomil (40 mg): An angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that prevents the hormone angiotensin II from binding to receptors in blood vessels, leading to relaxation and widening of blood vessels.

This dual approach provides a more comprehensive strategy for blood pressure management, particularly when blood pressure is not adequately controlled by either component alone.

Uses

OLVANCE AM 40 MG TABLET is prescribed for:

• Managing high blood pressure (hypertension) in adult patients whose blood pressure is not sufficiently controlled by either amlodipine or olmesartan alone.
• Reducing the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes associated with hypertension.

Dosage and Administration

The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, without crushing, chewing, or breaking it. It can be taken with or without food. It is important to take the medicine at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels in the body and for better blood pressure control. The daily dose and duration of treatment are determined by a physician based on individual factors, and the prescribed dosage should not be exceeded. Do not stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects

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

Serious Side Effects

• Severe allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling of face/mouth/larynx)
• Severe dizziness or fainting (hypotension)
• Severe, persistent diarrhea with substantial weight loss
• Yellowing of the whites of the eyes, dark urine, itching of the skin (indicating liver problems)
• High potassium levels (symptoms include nausea, diarrhea, muscle weakness, changes in heart rhythm)
• Rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, chest pain
• Aching, tender, or weak muscles (not caused by exercise)

Precautions

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Contraindicated during pregnancy, especially after the first three months, and generally not recommended for breastfeeding mothers due to potential risks to the baby.
• Liver and Kidney Conditions: Use with caution in patients with liver or kidney disease; severe liver diseases are a contraindication. Regular monitoring of kidney function, blood pressure, and electrolytes may be required.
• Heart Conditions: Caution is advised for patients with congestive heart failure, severe coronary artery disease, aortic stenosis, or severe low blood pressure.
• Diabetes: If taking Aliskiren for diabetes, avoid using this medicine due to increased risk of kidney problems.
• Allergy: Do not take if allergic to amlodipine, olmesartan, or any other components of the tablet.
• Grapefruit Interaction: Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice as it can increase amlodipine levels and lead to an unpredictable decrease in blood pressure.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption as it may enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect and cause dizziness.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, including NSAIDs, other RAS blockers (like aliskiren or enalapril), lithium, and potassium supplements, as interactions can occur.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: May cause dizziness or fatigue, so caution is advised.
• Children and Elderly: Not recommended for children and adolescents under 18. Caution is advised in elderly patients (over 65 or 70 years) who may be more susceptible to side effects.

Storage

Store the medicine below 30°C or at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep out of sight and reach of children.

What is OLVANCE AM 40 MG TABLET used for?

OLVANCE AM 40 MG TABLET is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults. It is prescribed for individuals whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled by either amlodipine or olmesartan alone. By lowering blood pressure, it helps reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney problems.

How does OLVANCE AM 40 MG TABLET work?

This medicine is a combination of two active ingredients: Amlodipine (a calcium channel blocker) and Olmesartan Medoxomil (an angiotensin II receptor blocker, or ARB). Amlodipine works by limiting the movement of calcium into the cells of the heart and blood vessels, which relaxes and widens the blood vessels. Olmesartan Medoxomil blocks the action of angiotensin II, a substance that causes blood vessels to narrow. Together, they relax and widen blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood and thus lowering blood pressure.

What is the usual dosage for OLVANCE AM 40 MG TABLET?

The daily dose of OLVANCE AM 40 MG TABLET should be taken exactly as directed by your doctor. The dosage may vary based on individual factors like the severity of your condition and your response to the medicine. It's crucial to stick to the prescribed dosage and not increase it without consulting your doctor. Generally, it's a once-daily tablet that can be taken with or without food, preferably at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels.

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

Common side effects include dizziness, fatigue, nausea, muscle spasms, headache, peripheral edema (swelling of ankles or feet due to fluid buildup), vertigo, abdominal pain, cough, and joint pain. More serious, but less common, side effects can include severe allergic reactions, signs of hypotension (severe dizziness or fainting), severe, persistent diarrhea with substantial weight loss, or yellowing of the skin or eyes. If you experience any persistent or severe side effects, consult your doctor.

Is OLVANCE AM 40 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

OLVANCE AM 40 MG TABLET is contraindicated during pregnancy, especially after the first trimester (more than 3 months pregnant), as it can cause serious harm to the baby. It is also not recommended for use while breastfeeding, as components of the medicine pass into breastmilk, and its effect on infants is not known. Your doctor may advise discontinuing the medicine or stopping breastfeeding.

Can OLVANCE AM 40 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

OLVANCE AM 40 MG TABLET can interact with several other medications. For instance, Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen may weaken its blood pressure-lowering effect and increase the risk of kidney problems. Taking it with Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS) blockers (e.g., aliskiren, enalapril) can increase risks of low blood pressure, fainting, high potassium levels, and kidney function changes. It can also increase lithium levels and toxicity. Always inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, or herbal preparations you are currently taking to avoid possible interactions.

What precautions should be taken while using OLVANCE AM 40 MG TABLET?

Before taking this medicine, inform your doctor if you have severe liver disease, diabetes, kidney issues, high potassium levels, or severe coronary artery disease. Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice as it can increase the levels of amlodipine and lead to an unpredictable decrease in blood pressure. Alcohol consumption should also be avoided as it can enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect and cause dizziness. This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue, so use caution when driving or operating machinery. Your doctor may monitor your kidney function, blood pressure, and electrolyte levels regularly.

What happens if a dose of OLVANCE AM 40 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 a missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects.

How should OLVANCE AM 40 MG TABLET be stored?

OLVANCE AM 40 MG TABLET should be stored at room temperature, protected from moisture and heat. Keep it out of the reach and sight of children and pets.