Indications
Azor is a combination medication used to treat high blood pressure. It contains two active ingredients, amlodipine, and Olmesartan medoxomil. Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker that works by relaxing the muscles of the heart and blood vessels, while Olmesartan medoxomil is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist that works by blocking the actions of certain chemicals in the body that cause blood vessels to narrow.
The combination of amlodipine and Olmesartan work together to lower blood pressure. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. Azor is available in tablet form and was first approved by the FDA in 2007.
Uses and Dosage
Azor (Amlodipine/Olmesartan) is available in tablet form to be taken orally, with or without food, as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. If you take drugs to lower your cholesterol, known as bile acid-binding resins such as cholestyramine, colesevelam, colestipol, take Azor (Amlodipine/Olmesartan) at least four hours before taking any of these medications.
To make the most of the benefits of Azor, take it regularly at the same time each day. Even if you feel well, continue taking the medication. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. It may take up to two weeks before you experience the complete benefits of this medication.
The typical dosing for Azor (Amlodipine/Olmesartan) involves taking one tablet containing 5 mg of amlodipine and 20 mg of Olmesartan by mouth once per day, as a starting dose. Your healthcare provider will adjust your dose according to how well it regulates your blood pressure and if you experience any adverse effects. The maximum dose of Azor is one tablet containing 10 mg of amlodipine and 40 mg of Olmesartan once per day.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Azor (Amlodipine/Olmesartan):
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling)
- Hair loss
- Lightheadedness
- Skin rash or itching
- Swelling hands/ankles/feet
Serious Side Effects of Azor (Amlodipine/Olmesartan):
- Arm or leg weakness
- Blurred vision
- Confusion
- Eye pain or swelling
- Fainting
- Fast heartbeat
- Fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeats
- Feeling unsteady
- Fluttering in your chest
- High fever, profuse sweating, or tremors
- Loss of coordination
- Seeing halos around lights
- Severe headache
- Severe or persistent diarrhea
- Shortness of breath
- Slurred speech
- Sudden dizziness, lightheartedness, or passing out
- Sudden vision loss
- Swelling hands/ankles/feet
- Trouble walking
- Tunnel vision
- Unusual change in the amount of urine
- Very stiff muscles
Form and Strength
Azor (Amlodipine/Olmesartan) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Azor: Tablet
- 5/20 mg
- 10/20 mg
- 10/40 mg
Amlodipine/Olmesartan: Tablet
- 5/20 mg
- 10/20 mg
- 10/40 mg
Caution
- There is a boxed warning that Azor may cause fetal toxicity, and it should be discontinued as soon as possible if pregnancy is detected.
- Azor may cause symptomatic hypotension, especially in patients with volume depletion or on a salt-restricted diet.
- Patients with renal impairment may experience worsened renal function while taking Azor.
- Azor may cause hepatic impairment and liver function should be monitored in patients with impaired hepatic function.
- Azor may cause hyperkalemia (elevated levels of potassium in the blood) which should be monitored in patients with pre-existing hyperkalemia.
- Azor may cause angioedema (rapid swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat) which can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.
- Azor may cause hypersensitivity, which can include symptoms such as rash, itching, and swelling.
- Azor may cause or worsen renal impairment in patients with underlying kidney disease.
- Azor may cause or worsen hepatic impairment in patients with underlying liver disease.
- Azor may cause hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, which can result in serious or life-threatening respiratory or cardiovascular effects.
- Azor may interact with other medications such as diuretics, potassium supplements, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How is hypertension treated?
Treatment for hypertension typically involves lifestyle changes, such as exercise and dietary changes, as well as medication to help lower blood pressure. Certain medications, such as Azor, work by relaxing the blood vessels and reducing the amount of water and salt in the body to lower blood pressure.
How long does it take for Azor (amlodipine / Olmesartan) to start working?
It typically takes about 2 weeks to see the full blood pressure-lowering effect from Azor. But even if you don't see a change in your blood pressure after taking it every day for 2 weeks, you should keep taking the medication and contact your provider.
What should I avoid while taking Azor?
You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking Azor, as it can increase the risk of side effects. You should also avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery, until you know how Azor affects you.
Can Azor be taken during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Azor should not be taken during pregnancy, especially during the second and third trimesters, as it may harm the developing fetus.
Resources
- https://www.rxlist.com/azor-side-effects-drug-center.htm
- https://www.goodrx.com/azor/what-is
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/022100s033lbl.pdf
- https://www.drugs.com/azor.html
- https://reference.medscape.com/drug/azor-amlodipine-olmesartan-342470
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-149214/amlodipine-olmesartan-oral/details
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