Benicar (olmesartan) is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist used to lower blood pressure and help kidneys to get rid of extra fluid. It works by preventing the blood vessels from narrowing therefore improving the blood flow. Benicar can cause serious damage to an unborn baby if taken during the two last trimesters of pregnancy. You need to use a reliable method of birth control. If you think you may have become pregnant stop taking Benicar and consult your health care provider right away. Drinking alcohol is not recommended as it may cause a drop of blood pressure and worsen some of the side effects. Your doctor will most probably want to check your blood pressure regularly to make sure this drug is working well for you.

Even if you feel much better keep taking Benicar as high blood pressure often doesn’t display any symptoms. If you have kidney or liver disease, dehydration, congestive heart failure your may require a dose adjustment or an alternative way of treating your condition should be found. Benicar has to be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor with some food or without. Some of the side effects you can experience while taking Benicar include back pain, joint pain, stomach pain, diarrhea, increased sweating, weakness, dizziness, headache, skin rash or mild itching.