Article: Olmesartan

Image:Olmesartan.png
Olmesartan
Systematic (IUPAC) name
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Identifiers
CAS number	144689-63-4
ATC code	C09CA08
PubChem	130881
DrugBank	APRD00223
Chemical data
Formula	C29H30N6O6
Mol. weight	558.585 g/mol
Pharmacokinetic data
Bioavailability	Rapid and complete absorption
Metabolism	Hepatic (cannot be removed by hemodialysis)
Half life	13 hours
Excretion	Primarily fecal, small amount in urine
Therapeutic considerations
Pregnancy cat.	C (D if used in second or third trimester)
Legal status	℞ Prescription only
Routes	Oral

Olmesartan (Benicar®) belongs to the class of medicines called angiotensin II receptor antagonists to treat high blood pressure. It is marketed by Sankyo Pharma, Inc. Olmesartan works by blocking the action of angiotension II. As a result of this blockage, olmesartan restricts vasoconstriction and the secretion of aldosterone. This lowers blood pressure by producing vasodilation, and decreasing peripheral resistance.

Administration

Olmesartan is available in 5, 20, and 40 mg tablets. A normal dose for an adult (including the elderly and mild renal or hepatic impairment) is 20 mg/day in one dosage. This may be increased after two weeks to 40 mg/day if further blood pressure reduction is needed.

Side effects

Side effects include:

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Diarrhea
• Upper respiratory tract infection