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Olmesartan
Drug ClassARB
Year Approved2002
Conditions TreatedHypertension
AvailabilityPrescription
About Olmesartan
An angiotensin receptor blocker marketed as Benicar. Olmesartan treats high blood pressure by blocking angiotensin II receptors. In 2013, the FDA warned that olmesartan can cause sprue like enteropathy, a severe diarrhea condition mimicking celiac disease that can develop months or years after starting the drug. This rare side effect resolved after discontinuation. Despite this warning, olmesartan remains an effective blood pressure medication. It is often combined with hydrochlorothiazide as Benicar HCT.