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Benicar Side Effects

Generic name: olmesartan

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 26, 2023.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Benicar Side Effects associated with olmesartan. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Benicar.

Applies to olmesartan: oral tablet.

Important warnings This medicine can cause some serious health issues

Oral route (tablet)

Discontinue olmesartan medoxomil as soon as possible once pregnancy is detected since drugs that act directly on the renin-angiotensin system can case injury and death in a developing fetus.

Serious side effects of Benicar

Along with its needed effects, olmesartan (the active ingredient contained in Benicar) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking olmesartan:

Less common

  • blood in the urine
  • body aches or pain
  • chills
  • cough or cough producing mucus
  • difficulty with breathing
  • ear congestion
  • fever
  • headache
  • loss of voice
  • runny or stuffy nose
  • sneezing
  • sore throat
  • tightness in the chest
  • unusual tiredness or weakness

Rare

  • bladder pain
  • bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet
  • chest pain
  • cloudy urine
  • difficult, burning, or painful urination
  • fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse
  • frequent urge to urinate
  • joint pain, stiffness, or swelling
  • lower back, side, or stomach pain
  • swelling of the feet or lower legs

Incidence not known

  • confusion
  • dark-colored urine
  • diarrhea (severe) with weight loss
  • dizziness
  • hives or itching
  • large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs
  • muscle cramps or spasms
  • muscle pain or stiffness
  • nausea or vomiting
  • weakness or heaviness of the legs

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur while taking olmesartan:

Symptoms of overdose

Other side effects of Benicar

Some side effects of olmesartan may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Less common

  • back pain
  • diarrhea
  • dry mouth
  • flushed, dry skin
  • fruit-like breath odor
  • general feeling of discomfort or illness
  • increased hunger
  • increased thirst
  • increased urination
  • loss of appetite
  • muscle aches
  • pain or tenderness around the eyes and cheekbones
  • shivering
  • tender, swollen glands in the neck
  • trouble sleeping
  • trouble swallowing
  • unexplained weight loss

Rare

  • acid or sour stomach
  • belching
  • difficulty with moving
  • feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings
  • heartburn
  • indigestion
  • rapid weight gain
  • rash
  • sensation of spinning
  • tingling of the hands or feet
  • unusual weight gain or loss

Incidence not known

  • hair loss or thinning of the hair
  • lack or loss of strength
  • redness of the skin
  • welts

For healthcare professionals

Applies to olmesartan: oral tablet.

General

The most common side effect in adults was dizziness.[Ref]

Nervous system

Respiratory

Other

Gastrointestinal

Musculoskeletal

Metabolic

Hepatic

Genitourinary

Psychiatric

Dermatologic

Immunologic

Renal

Cardiovascular

Hematologic

References

1. (2002) "Product Information. Benicar (olmesartan)." Sankyo Pharma

2. Cerner Multum, Inc. "UK Summary of Product Characteristics."

3. Cerner Multum, Inc. "Australian Product Information."

Further information

Benicar side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.