Benicar and Cramps: What Users Say

• Kis...
• March 24, 2017

For High Blood Pressure "I took Benicar for 12 years or more and went through the leg cramps, etc., but it worked well on my BP. I would get kidney infections occasionally but didn't know why. One day a few years ago, I came down with painful gout. My new doctor took me off Benicar right away. She said it contributed to my gout flare-ups because it affected my kidneys. I was so angry because I didn't know and hadn't read up on it. Have your kidneys checked regularly while taking this med. Now, through diet and another BP med, I do well with the gout, however, I wish I hadn't taken Benicar so long and had it affect my kidneys. Be careful!"

• Anonymous
• November 14, 2012

For High Blood Pressure "I have been taking Benicar for four years with no noticeable side effects; keeps my blood pressure at 115/75 easily. I had experienced negative effects such as leg cramps and severe dizziness with other medicines prior to taking Benicar. I still monitor other aspects of my life that affect blood pressure - adequate exercise, proper diet, etc., but am happy this medicine is available to 'close the gap.'"

• lit...
• August 4, 2013

For High Blood Pressure "I have been taking Benicar 20 mg for 2 1/2 years. The doctor switched me from lisinopril and hydrochlorothiazide after prostate surgery. My blood pressure has remained in the 120/75 range the whole time. The only side effects I have noticed are a change in my sex drive and leg cramps. The lack of sex drive could be from the surgery, or the fact that I am almost 72 years young."

• Anonymous
• July 5, 2009

For High Blood Pressure "My doctor put me on Benicar HCT about 7 years ago. I was the type of person who hated to take medication so I didn't take it consistently. I think that is why I finally realized every time I would take a pill, I would wake up during the night with severe leg cramps. I told my doctor about it, and he changed my prescription to plain Benicar. After that, I take it regularly and have no side effects or problems at all, and it keeps my blood pressure level at 110/70."

• LBa...
• July 30, 2011

For High Blood Pressure "I started Benicar two weeks ago for extremely high blood pressure 220/105. After two weeks, my blood pressure is now down to 140/80. I do feel much better. More energy. The only complaint I have is the muscle/leg cramps and aches I get every night. Nothing helps. I am on 40 mg of Benicar once a day. I will call my doctor and see if there is any solution for the muscle aches. Otherwise, I am very happy with the results."

• blu...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• July 31, 2016

For High Blood Pressure "Had an active lifestyle, was able to do a 40-50 min treadmill workout (run/walk) and was able to participate in outdoor soccer. Lost gf, grandmother died, horrible boss in new job in 3 months = 189/125 diagnosed accidentally. First 20 mg (85% effective), then 40 mg worked. Blood pressure: normal, weight gain 30 pounds added. Other impacts: cramps while playing soccer. Enhanced sensation of muscle fatigue (post hitting ball) or muscle in body. Next day feel effects. Stopped running/bike ride, rowing ok. Flaky rash on elbows, dime size, now double (use moisturizer/Nivea aftershave on it, works). Weight gain, depression 3 hours after taking meds, lazy. Potassium sports drink helped muscle recovery, feel good (doctor says don't take potassium)."

• Tny...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• April 1, 2015

For High Blood Pressure "I am taking Benicar HCT 40/25. I have no sex drive, and really bad leg cramps. If I stretch, I immediately get a charley horse."

• Kim...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• May 11, 2018

For High Blood Pressure "It helped control my blood pressure, but the side effects were terrible: leg spasms and cramps."