Warnings


What may interact with Benicar HCT?


-barbiturates like phenobarbital
-corticosteroids like prednisone
-diuretics, especially triamterene, spironolactone or amiloride
-lithium
-medicines for diabetes
-medicines for high blood pressure
-NSAIDs like ibuprofen
-potassium salts or potassium supplements
-prescription pain medicines
-skeletal muscle relaxants like tubocurarine
-some cholesterol lowering medications like cholestyramine or colestipol

What should I tell my health care provider before I take Benicar HCT?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

-asthma
-decreased urine
-diabetes
-if you are on a special diet, such as a low salt diet
-immune system problems, like lupus
-kidney disease
-liver disease
-an unusual reaction to olmesartan, hydrochlorothiazide, sulfa drugs, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
-pregnant or trying to get pregnant
-breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using Benicar HCT?

Check your blood pressure regularly while you are taking this medicine. Ask your doctor or health care professional what your blood pressure should be and when you should contact him or her. When you check your blood pressure, write down the measurements to show your doctor or health care professional. If you are taking this medicine for a long time, you must visit your health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Make sure you schedule appointments on a regular basis.
You must not get dehydrated. Ask your doctor or health care professional how much fluid you need to drink a day. Check with him or her if you get an attack of severe diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, or if you sweat a lot. The loss of too much body fluid can make it dangerous for you to take this medicine.
Women should inform their doctor if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child, particularly in the second or third trimester. Talk to your health care professional or pharmacist for more information.
You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this drug affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol can make you more drowsy and dizzy. Avoid alcoholic drinks.
This medicine may increase blood sugar. Ask your healthcare provider if changes in diet or medicines are needed if you have diabetes.
Avoid salt substitutes unless you are told otherwise by your doctor or health care professional.
Do not treat yourself for coughs, colds, or pain while you are taking this medicine without asking your doctor or health care professional for advice. Some ingredients may increase your blood pressure.
Talk to your health care professional about your risk of skin cancer. You may be more at risk for skin cancer if you take this medicine.
This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Throw away any unused drug after the expiration date.