Class: Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonist
Dosage Forms. Tablet: 5 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg
Common FDA Label Indication, Dosing, and Titration.
1. Hypertension: Adults, 20 mg po daily, may titrate to 40 mg po daily; Children 6-16 y weighing 20-34 kg, 10 mg po daily, may titrate to 20 mg po daily; Children 6-16 y weighing >35 kg, 20 mg po daily, may titrate to 40 mg po daily
Off-Label Uses. None
MOA. Olmesartan is a selective, reversible, competitive antagonist of the angiotensin II receptor (AT1).
Drug Characteristics: Olmesartan
Medication Safety Issues: Olmesartan
Drug Interactions: Olmesartan
Adverse Reactions: Olmesartan
Efficacy Monitoring Parameters. Decreased BP.
Toxicity Monitoring Parameters. Report signs/symptoms of hypotension and tachycardia. Baseline and periodic sodium, potassium, total bicarbonate, BUN, SCr, and urinalysis prior to initiating therapy.
Key Patient Counseling Points. Avoid pregnancy. Use potassium supplements or salt substitutes only under medical supervision. May cause dizziness that may worsen if dehydrated. Seek care if angioedema, excessive fluid loss, hyperkalemia, reduction in urination, or jaundice occurs.
Clinical Pearls. Angiotensin II receptor antagonists can cause injury or death to the developing fetus; therapy should be stopped as soon as possible when pregnancy is detected. Sitting/standing systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rate should be checked periodically while on olmesartan therapy.