Blood pressure refers to the force exerted on blood veins by the blood. It is a common condition in America- affecting a third of the population. The blood pressure is determined by the systolic and diastolic rate (optimum pressure during heart contraction and minimum pressure in blood vessels during cardiac contraction respectively). Normal blood pressure is 120/80. Anything above this rate is called hypertension.

If untreated, high blood pressure puts patients at risk of stroke, kidney failure, blindness, and heart attacks. To avert the condition, there are various drugs administered- one of them is Benicar. The drug is one of the most common in an array of hypertension drugs.

Olmesartanmedoxomil is the chemical name of the drug. The drug is hydrolyzed to olmesartan during absorption which is a selective AT1 subtype angiotensin II receptor antagonist.

Benicar Prescription Assistance Programs

The federal and state governments understand the threat paused by high blood pressure. Therefore, they provide sensitization to have regular checkups and stick to physician prescriptions. There are Benicar prescription assistance programs that help senior citizens, uninsured, and those who cannot afford the medication.

There are also several non-government organizations that have taken up the initiative to offer free Benicar or low-cost medication. If the costs are above your financial ability you can search for Benicar coupons to get subsidized medication.

Benicar has little to no side effects, thus, making it one of the most suitable hypertension prescriptions.

Prescription, precaution, and dosage

You should seek the assistance of a professional before using Benicar. The physician will direct you on the right dosage. The recommended initial dosage is 20mg in a day but it varies from one person to another. The drug can be administered with other drugs as advised by your doctor.

However, it is not advisable to use Benicar during pregnancy. Nursing mothers should also refrain from using the drug because it may affect the newborn. Children below the age of 1 year should seek other high blood pressure treatments. In case of severe side effects, you should seek the advice of a physician. Though rare, there are cases of overdose. The most common symptoms of overdose are low blood pressure and increased heartbeat. It is advisable to report such cases to a doctor for appropriate advice.

Side effects

As noted earlier, Benicar has little to no side effects. The following are some mild effects of the drug.

1. Stomach discomfort
2. Lightheadedness
3. Chest pains
4. Back pains
5. Skin rashes and acne

In rare cases, there are severe cases like sprue-like enteropathy which entails dehydration, excessive diarrhea, and malnutrition. In case of such reactions, you should visit a physician for a different prescription.

Benicar is one of the best drugs in managing hypertension. However, there are people who cannot afford the drug. As the government seeks to attain the goal of universal health care, it is easier to get Benicar coupons to subsidize the cost. Do not procrastinate because untreated high blood pressure has fatal health consequences.