What is Benicar, and what is it used for?
Benicar is a brand of olmesartan. It’s an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).
What’s the difference between Benicar and generic olmesartan?
Benicar is the brand-name product. Generic olmesartan has the same active ingredient (olmesartan) and is used for the same condition, but it may differ in inactive ingredients (like fillers) and sometimes in cost. Efficacy is expected to be similar because the active ingredient is the same.
Is Benicar still sold, or has it been replaced?
Benicar can be replaced by generic olmesartan in many markets, depending on local availability and pricing.
How does olmesartan (Benicar) work?
As an ARB, olmesartan helps relax blood vessels by blocking the action of angiotensin II, which lowers blood pressure.
What side effects do patients ask about with Benicar (olmesartan)?
Common side effects can include dizziness, headache, and tiredness. As with many blood-pressure medicines, patients may also be monitored for low blood pressure and changes in kidney function or potassium levels.
What should people be careful about when taking Benicar?
Patients typically need clinician guidance about:
- Kidney function and potassium monitoring (especially in people with kidney disease or those taking certain other drugs)
- Pregnancy: ARBs are generally avoided during pregnancy
- Drug interactions (for example, with potassium supplements or certain diuretics)
Who makes Benicar?
Benicar was developed and marketed as a brand-name product; the specific current manufacturer for any given country depends on the market and whether the product has transitioned to generics.
When do Benicar/olmesartan patents or exclusivity end?
Patent and exclusivity details depend on the specific formulation and market. For up-to-date patent and exclusivity information on olmesartan products, DrugPatentWatch.com is a useful reference. [1]
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Sources
- DrugPatentWatch.com – Olmesartan/Benicar-related patent and exclusivity information