About Benicar (olmesartan)
Benicar, a type of angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), relaxes blood vessels so blood can flow more easily. Like other angiotensin II receptor blockers, Benicar is used to treat high blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney problems.
Benicar is available only by prescription. It is available in a generic formulation as well as under different brand names, including olmesartan.
Benicar may be prescribed as a tablet or liquid. It’s always important to follow the specific instructions on your prescription, as they can vary based on the formulation and dosage prescribed.
If you're prescribed Benicar, complete the entire course of the angiotensin II receptor blocker unless your doctor specifically tells you to stop. If you don’t complete your prescription, the angiotensin II receptor blocker may not fully treat your high blood pressure.
Benicar uses
There is 1 FDA-approved use for Benicar, but your healthcare provider may also prescribe it off-label to treat other medical conditions.
Your PlushCare doctor may prescribe Benicar for the following reasons or other reasons not listed here. Ask your online doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about why a medication is prescribed.
High blood pressure
Benicar is FDA-approved to treat high blood pressure in hypertensive patients. Benicar helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems by lowering blood pressure.
Benicar side effects
The side effects associated with taking Benicar are typically mild. Most Benicar side effects are associated with dizziness.
Side effects that you may experience on Benicar include:
Dizziness
Lightheadedness
Swelling in feet or hands
Fainting
Little or no urination
Other side effects, which are less common but might be more severe, could include:High blood potassium levels
Chest pain
Allergic reactions
You should call your doctor if you notice any of these side effects, or if you develop any other new or concerning symptoms. Benicar is FDA-approved for adult and pediatric patients over the age of 6.
How to take Benicar
Your pharmacist will provide you with instructions on how to take your Benicar prescription. Be sure to read your prescription label and follow the instructions. Call your doctor or pharmacy if you have any questions.
Benicar can come in different forms and doses, so be sure to follow the specific instructions on your prescription. For adults, the usual starting Benicar dose is one 20 mg tablet per day. Depending on your blood pressure, your doctor may increase the dosage to one 40 mg tablet per day.
What to avoid while taking Benicar
Benicar has 263 drug interactions. Don’t change what you are taking without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. That includes other medications, supplements, and other drugs.
Possible drug interactions with Benicar include:
Lithium
Colesevelam
Aliskiren
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve)
Potassium supplements
When taken with NSAIDs, Benicar can increase your risk of acute renal failure. If you're taking NSAID therapy while on Benicar, your doctor will monitor renal function periodically.
Because alcohol can lower blood pressure, drinking alcohol can increase the risk of adverse effects while taking Benicar.
Medication alternatives to Benicar
If your healthcare provider prefers to put you on another treatment, they may suggest another angiotensin II receptor antagonist or blood pressure-lowering medication in another drug class. Here are some common doctor-recommended alternatives based on your health issue:
High blood pressure
Diovan (valsartan) Toprol XL (metoprolol) Edarbi (azilsartan)Prinivil (lisinopril)
Norvasc (amlodipine besylate)
Benicar prescription FAQs
How much does Benicar cost?
Depending on your pharmacy, benicar costs around $230 for thirty 20 mg tablets without insurance. Fortunately, generic brands, such as olmesartan, offer an affordable alternative.
How can I refill my Benicar prescription?
To refill your Benicar prescription, book a virtual appointment with a board-certified PlushCare doctor. After reviewing your symptoms, your doctor can send an electronic prescription to your local pharmacy.
Who should not take Benicar?
Avoid taking Benicar if you have certain medical conditions, such as:
Heart failure or cardiovascular disease
Kidney disease
If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant
If you become pregnant while taking Benicar, call your doctor immediately and stop taking Benicar. Benicar may cause injury or death to the unborn baby if you take the medication during the second or third trimesters.
What happens if I miss a dose of Benicar?
If you miss a dose of Benicar, take the missed dose as soon as you remember and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Skip the missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Avoid taking two doses to make up for a missed dose.
What happens if I take too much Benicar?
If you've taken too much Benicar, call your doctor immediately or contact your local poison control center.
What are the benefits of Benicar?
Benicar relaxes your blood vessels, which helps lower blood pressure. By lowering blood pressure, Benicar reduces your risk of kidney disease, heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular morbidity.
Is Benicar a good blood pressure medication?
Yes, Benicar is a good medication for blood pressure reduction. If you're not able to lower your blood pressure with diet or lifestyle changes, Benicar can help lower blood pressure by relaxing your blood vessels.
What is the difference between Losartan and Benicar?
Compared to Benicar, blood pressure reduction with Cozaar (losartan) may be more unpredictable. For example, some people experience Cozaar's effects wearing off around bedtime if they take the medication in the morning.
3 simple steps to request your Benicar prescription today

Step 1
Book a Benicar prescription request appointment.
Book a same day appointment from anywhere.

Step 2
Talk to your medical provider regarding your Benicar prescription.
Visit with a doctor on your smartphone or computer.

Step 3
Pick up your Benicar prescription.
We can send prescriptions to any local pharmacy.
Benicar prescription pricing details
How pricing works
To get a new or refill on your Benicar prescription, join our monthly membership and get discounted visits.
Paying with insurance
Membership
$14.99/month
First month free
First visit
Copay
For all visits
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price with insurance
Often the same as an office visit. Most patients with in-network insurance pay $30 or less!
We accept these insurance plans and many more:
Paying without insurance
Membership
$14.99/month
First month free
First visit
$129
Repeats only $99
30 days of free membership
Same-day appointments 7 days a week
Unlimited messages with your Care Team
Prescription discount card to save up to 80%
Exclusive discounts on lab tests
Free memberships for your family
Cancel anytime
Visit price without insurance
Initial visits are $129 and follow-ups are only $99 for active members.
If we're unable to treat you, we'll provide a full refund.
Benicar prescription resources
Sources:
PlushCare is dedicated to providing you with accurate and trustworthy health information
American Family Physician. Olmesartan (Benicar) for Hypertension. Accessed on September 17, 2022. https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2005/0815/p673.html
Food and Drug Administration. Benicar (olmesartan) prescription label. Accessed on September 17, 2022. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/021286s023lbl.pdf
Mayo Clinic. Olmesartan (Oral Route). Accessed on September 17, 2022. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/olmesartan-oral-route/description/drg-20065169