Benicar HCT is a medication used to treat high blood pressure. Benicar HCT is a combination medication that contains olmesartan and hydrochlorothiazide. Olmesartan relaxes your blood vessels allowing blood to flow more easily while hydrochlorothiazide causes you to produce more urine which helps your body to remove excess salt and water.

Make sure to always read the patient information and instructions before using this medication. Always follow your doctor’s directions.

• Benicar HCT may be taken with or without food.
• As Benicar HCT may cause you to urinate more frequently, it should not be taken close to bedtime.
• Drink lots of non-caffeinated liquids while taking this medication.
• Continue taking this medication even when you feel well.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• About your drug and other allergies.
• If you take any other prescription or over-the-counter medications.
• Your medical history particularly of gout, kidney disease, liver disease, lupus, skin cancer or dehydration.
• If you are unable to pass urine.
• If you are breast-feeding.
• If you are on a low-salt diet.

You should also know:

• Benicar HCT should not be taken during pregnancy.
• You should avoid driving or other activities which require alertness until they can be done safely.
• This medication may affect certain laboratory tests. Tell all testing personnel that you take this medication.
• You should drink plenty of liquids while taking this medication to prevent dehydration.

Common side effects of Benicar HCT include but are not limited to:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness.

Get medical help if you have any of the following side effects of Benicar HCT:

• Symptoms of dehydration including extreme thirst, very dry mouth, confusion, muscle cramps, weakness or a fast, slow or irregular heartbeat.
• Fainting.
• Severe or persistent diarrhea.
• Eye pain or a decrease in vision.
• High potassium blood level symptoms including muscle weakness or a slow or irregular heartbeat,.
• Signs of kidney problems including changes in your amount of urine.
• Symptoms of an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, hives or swelling in your face, lips or throat.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Benicar HCT?

If you miss a dose of Benicar HCT, you should take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip your missed dose.

What else is Benicar HCT called?

Benicar HCT is also known as Olmetec Plus and Hipersar Plus internationally. Olmetec Plus and Hipersar Plus are the same brand name medications with different names internationally and are not generic alternative medications. Generic Benicar HCT is called Olmesartan HCTZ.