What Are the Benefits of Benicar?

Olmesartan (sold under the name Benicar) is a type of medication that is prescribed to lower a patient's blood pressure. By targeting a portion of the blood pressure system, it reduces constriction and lowers the incidence of hypertension. Benicar is available by prescription only, and you should consult your doctor when taking advice about any blood pressure medication.

Lowering Blood Pressure

• According to MedlinePlus, the main mechanism of Benicar stops the protein angiotensin II from binding to certain receptors that cause the blood vessels to constrict. Because the blood vessels cannot constrict, it causes the blood to stop secreting aldosterone, a hormone that further increases blood pressure. With high blood pressure often a precursor to many potential ailments, lowering that pressure with Benicar may help to prevent those ailments. The Mayo Clinic states that one of these ailments is damaged blood vessels in the heart, kidneys and brain, which could result in heart failure, kidney failure or a stroke. Lower blood pressure also puts less strain on the body as a whole and may lead to decreased stress levels.

Prevent Hypertension Complications

• Indirectly, lowering blood pressure can prevent many hypertension-related complications. The Mayo Clinic says that certain problems that a lower blood pressure may prevent include coronary artery disease, renal disease, peripheral arterial disease and stroke. The American Heart Association states that a blood pressure medication like Benicar, when combined with exercise and a healthy diet, may lead to a lower incidence of these future issues.

Available for Allergic Patients

• The Mayo Clinic classifies Benicar as an angiotensis II receptor antagonist. Some patients are allergic to other blood pressure medications, such as Adalat, Nifedical and Procardia, which are classified as dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers. If a patient is allergic to the dihydropyridine calcium blockers, he can take Benicar, as the medication has a different method of lowering blood pressure.

Available for Combination

• Benicar is available in a stronger formula called Benicar HCT, which can be taken when one medication is not enough. Benicar HCT combines the mechanism of Benicar with a second medicine called hydrochlorothiazide. The American Heart Association states that this medicine targets another part of the blood pressure system that involves excess sodium (salt) and water. The makers of Benicar state that by taking this combined Benicar HCT, a patient may experience more positive results because of the increased strength.