Pregnancy
Do not use Benicar HCT during pregnancy.
Olmesartan can cause serious harm or death to an unborn baby.
If you become pregnant while taking Benicar HCT, contact your healthcare provider right away.
Allergic Reactions
Do not take Benicar HCT if you are allergic to olmesartan, hydrochlorothiazide, or any ingredient in the medication.
Seek emergency medical attention if you develop:
- Hives
- Severe rash
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Trouble breathing or swallowing
Kidney Problems
Tell your healthcare provider if you have kidney disease.
Benicar HCT can affect kidney function, especially if you are dehydrated or take other medications that affect the kidneys.
Your healthcare provider may check your kidney function during treatment.
Liver Problems
Tell your healthcare provider if you have liver disease.
Changes in fluid or electrolyte levels may be harder for people with liver problems to tolerate.
Diabetes
Hydrochlorothiazide may affect blood sugar levels.
If you have diabetes, you may need to check your blood sugar more often or have your diabetes medications adjusted.
Breastfeeding
Tell your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding.
Hydrochlorothiazide can pass into breast milk, and it is not known whether olmesartan passes into human milk.
Your healthcare provider will help decide whether Benicar HCT is appropriate for you.
Low Blood Pressure and Dizziness
Benicar HCT can lower your blood pressure too much, especially when you first start treatment, after a dose increase, or if you become dehydrated.
Symptoms may include:
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Weakness
- Fainting
Stand up slowly from a sitting or lying position.
Dehydration and Electrolyte Changes
Hydrochlorothiazide increases urination and can sometimes cause dehydration or changes in electrolyte levels.
Contact your healthcare provider if you develop:
- Severe thirst
- Dry mouth
- Weakness
- Muscle cramps
- Confusion
- Reduced urination
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
Do not force yourself to drink excessive amounts of fluid unless your healthcare provider tells you to.
Alcohol
Alcohol may increase dizziness and low blood pressure caused by Benicar HCT.
Limit or avoid alcohol until you know how the medication affects you.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Benicar HCT may cause dizziness or lightheadedness.
Avoid driving, operating machinery, or doing anything that requires alertness until you know how the medication affects you.
Drug Interactions
Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription medications, over-the-counter products, vitamins, supplements, and herbal products you take.
Benicar HCT may interact with:
- Other blood pressure medications
- NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen
- Lithium
- Diuretics
- Potassium supplements
- Certain cholesterol-lowering medicines
- Other medications that affect kidney function or electrolyte levels
Some combinations may increase the risk of low blood pressure, kidney problems, or abnormal electrolyte levels.
Vision Problems
Hydrochlorothiazide can rarely cause sudden eye problems, including increased pressure in the eye.
Seek medical attention if you develop sudden eye pain or a sudden decrease in vision.
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
Contact your healthcare provider if you develop severe dizziness, fainting, reduced urination, unusual weakness, significant swelling, or concerning changes in blood pressure.
Seek emergency medical attention for trouble breathing, chest pain, severe allergic reactions, or sudden vision changes.
REVIEWS