Key facts about Benicar HCT
What is Benicar HCT?
Benicar HCT is the brand name for olmesartan/hydrochlorothiazide and is available as an oral tablet.
What dosages is Benicar HCT available in?
Benicar HCT is available as a 20 mg/12.5 mg, 40 mg/12.5 mg and
40 mg/25 mg oral tablet.
What is Benicar HCT used for?
Benicar HCT is combination medication that is used to treat high blood pressure in adults.
How does Benicar HCT work?
Benicar HCT is a combination of two medications that lower blood pressure.
Olmesartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). Angiotensin II is a hormone that acts on multiple areas in the body. By blocking angiotensin II in the blood vessels, this medication tells the blood vessels to relax, which helps to lower blood pressure. Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic (water pill). It works in your kidneys to remove extra water and certain electrolytes (like sodium and potassium). This helps lower blood pressure.
How do I take Benicar HCT?
Benicar HCT is typically taken by mouth once daily.
Is it safe for me to take Benicar HCT?
Benicar HCT is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you.
Benicar HCT Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Benicar HCT include:
- Dizziness
- Upper respiratory infection
- High uric acid levels
- Nausea
Benicar HCT Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Benicar HCT. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Dangerously low blood pressure: dizziness, lightheadedness, pale skin, feeling faint
- Serious kidney problems: urinating less often than usual, swelling in your feet, ankles, or hands, unexplained weight gain
- High blood potassium levels: nausea, muscle weakness, abnormal heartbeat
- Severe allergic reaction: swelling of your lips, tongue, throat, or face, trouble breathing, rash
Severe diarrhea
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Benicar HCT
The following medications may interact with Benicar HCT:
- Lithium – Risk of lithium toxicity
- Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) – Reduced diuretic, natriuretic
- and antihypotensive effects – increased risk of renal toxicity
- Dual inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system – Increased risk of renal impairment, hypotension, and hyperkalemia
- Colesevelam hydrochloride – Consider administering olmesartan at least 4 hours before colesevelam hydrochloride dose
- Antidiabetic drugs – Dosage adjustment may be required
- Cholestyramine and Colestipol – Reduced absorption of thiazides
Who makes Benicar HCT?
Cosette Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Is Benicar HCT safe in pregnancy?
Benicar HCT may cause harm to your unborn baby. You should discontinue this medication immediately if you become pregnant.













