From the Guidelines
I do not recommend taking olmesartan 80 mg as this exceeds the recommended dose. According to the study 1, the recommended dose for olmesartan (Benicar) is 20 mg daily, with a goal dose of 20-40 mg daily. Taking 80 mg could increase your risk of side effects such as hypotension (low blood pressure), dizziness, fainting, and kidney problems without providing additional blood pressure-lowering benefits.
Some key points to consider:
- The maximum recommended daily dose of olmesartan is 40 mg once daily, as indicated in the study 1.
- Taking more than the recommended dose may not provide additional benefits and could increase the risk of adverse effects.
- If your current olmesartan dose isn't adequately controlling your blood pressure, speak with your healthcare provider about alternative options, such as adding a second blood pressure medication or switching to a different medication altogether.
It's essential to follow the recommended dosage and consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen. The study 1 emphasizes the importance of using goal doses at the higher end of the dose range when possible, but it's crucial to prioritize the recommended dose range to minimize potential risks. Always consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medication, especially if you're considering exceeding the recommended dose.
From the FDA Drug Label
The antihypertensive effects of olmesartan medoxomil have been demonstrated in seven placebo-controlled studies at doses ranging from 2.5 mg to 80 mg for 6 to 12 weeks, each showing statistically significant reductions in peak and trough blood pressure. Olmesartan medoxomil doses greater than 40 mg had little additional effect Repeated administration of up to 80 mg olmesartan medoxomil had minimal influence on aldosterone levels and no effect on serum potassium. Olmesartan shows linear pharmacokinetics following single oral doses of up to 320 mg and multiple oral doses of up to 80 mg
Yes, you can take olmesartan 80 mg, as it has been studied in clinical trials and shown to be effective in reducing blood pressure with minimal additional effect at doses greater than 40 mg 2. However, it is essential to follow the prescribed dosage and consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your specific condition.
From the Research
Olmesartan 80 mg Dosage
- The dosage of olmesartan 80 mg is within the range of doses that have been studied for the treatment of arterial hypertension 3, 4.
- Olmesartan has demonstrated its dose-dependent inhibitory effect on Ang I-induced blood pressure responses between 10 and 80 mg in Phase II studies 3.
- A daily oral dose of 20 mg olmesartan is considered to be the optimal dose, but doses up to 80 mg have been shown to be safe and effective 3, 4.
Safety and Tolerability
- Olmesartan has been shown to be safe and well tolerated with an adverse event profile similar to the placebo 3, 5.
- The most common adverse events reported with olmesartan include gastrointestinal disorders, nervous system disorders, and infections/infestations 5.
- Olmesartan medoxomil-based therapy was well tolerated in patients with stage 1 hypertension and demonstrated a placebo-like safety and tolerability profile 5.
Efficacy
- Olmesartan has been shown to be effective in lowering blood pressure and enabling patients to achieve blood pressure goals without an adverse effect on tolerability 3, 4, 5.
- The combination of olmesartan with other antihypertensive agents, such as hydrochlorothiazide, has been shown to be effective in achieving blood pressure goals 4, 6, 7.
- Olmesartan has been shown to have a comparable or more effective action in lowering blood pressure when compared to other angiotensin receptor blockers 7.