OXAMI H 40mg/25mg Tablets/Film-coated

What is OXAMI H 40mg/25mg

OXAMI H 40mg/25mg is a prescription medication composed of two active ingredients: Olmesartan medoxomil (40mg) and Hydrochlorothiazide (25mg). It is available as film-coated tablets and is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). This combination therapy is aimed at patients who need more intensive blood pressure control than monotherapy can provide.

• Olmesartan medoxomil belongs to a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). It helps relax blood vessels and lowers blood pressure by blocking the effects of angiotensin II, a substance in the body that causes blood vessels to constrict.
• Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic (water pill) that helps reduce excess fluid in the body by increasing urine output, thus reducing blood volume and pressure.
• The combined effect of these two agents results in more effective blood pressure reduction, lowering the risk of cardiovascular complications such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney problems.
• This medication is typically prescribed when blood pressure cannot be adequately controlled with either olmesartan or hydrochlorothiazide alone.

How to use OXAMI H 40mg/25mg

For optimal effectiveness and safety, follow these guidelines when taking OXAMI H 40mg/25mg:

• Take one tablet once daily, preferably at the same time each day to maintain consistent medication levels.
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush, split, or chew the tablet.
• The tablet can be taken with or without food.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.
• Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your healthcare provider, even if you feel well, as high blood pressure often has no symptoms.
• Regularly monitor your blood pressure and report any unusual symptoms or side effects to your healthcare provider promptly.

Mode of Action OXAMI H 40mg/25mg

OXAMI H 40mg/25mg lowers blood pressure through the complementary actions of its two components:

• Olmesartan medoxomil selectively blocks angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptors located in vascular smooth muscle. This blockade prevents angiotensin II from causing vasoconstriction and aldosterone secretion, leading to blood vessel dilation and reduced sodium and water retention.
• By preventing vasoconstriction, olmesartan reduces peripheral resistance, thereby lowering blood pressure.
• Hydrochlorothiazide acts on the distal convoluted tubules in the kidneys, inhibiting sodium and chloride reabsorption. This promotes increased urine output, reducing plasma volume and decreasing cardiac output.
• The diuretic effect also helps mitigate fluid retention and swelling, common problems in hypertension.
• Combined, these mechanisms lead to an additive antihypertensive effect, improving blood pressure control more effectively than either drug alone.

OXAMI H 40mg/25mg Interactions OXAMI H 40mg/25mg

OXAMI H 40mg/25mg can interact with several medications and substances, which can alter its efficacy or increase the risk of side effects:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): May reduce the antihypertensive effect and increase risk of kidney damage.
• Potassium supplements and potassium-sparing diuretics: Increase risk of hyperkalemia (high potassium levels), which can be dangerous.
• Other antihypertensive agents: May potentiate blood pressure lowering, increasing risk of hypotension.
• Lithium: May increase lithium toxicity; frequent monitoring is required.
• Drugs that affect electrolyte balance, such as corticosteroids and amphotericin B, may exacerbate potassium loss or imbalances.
• Cholestyramine and colestipol: Can reduce absorption of hydrochlorothiazide.
• Diabetic medications: Hydrochlorothiazide may impair glucose tolerance, necessitating monitoring of blood sugar.

Dosage of OXAMI H 40mg/25mg

The dosage of OXAMI H 40mg/25mg should be individualized based on patient response and clinical condition:

• The usual starting dose is one tablet once daily.
• Dosage adjustments may be necessary depending on blood pressure response, renal function, and tolerability.
• Maximum antihypertensive effect may take 2 to 4 weeks after starting therapy.
• Do not exceed the prescribed dose; higher doses increase risk of side effects without proven benefit.
• Patients with impaired kidney or liver function require careful dose adjustment or alternative therapy.
• Regular follow-up visits are essential to monitor blood pressure, kidney function, and electrolyte levels.

Possible side effects of OXAMI H 40mg/25mg

While OXAMI H 40mg/25mg is generally well tolerated, patients may experience side effects, which range from mild to severe:

• Common side effects: Dizziness, headache, fatigue, nausea, and gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Electrolyte disturbances: Hypokalemia (low potassium), hyponatremia (low sodium), or hyperkalemia (high potassium) manifesting as weakness, cramps, or arrhythmias.
• Hypotension: Excessive lowering of blood pressure can cause fainting or dizziness, particularly when standing.
• Renal impairment: Rare cases of worsening kidney function, especially in patients with pre-existing kidney disease.
• Allergic reactions: Rash, itching, or angioedema (swelling of face, lips, or throat) require immediate medical attention.
• Other possible effects: Increased uric acid levels, potentially leading to gout flare-ups.

OXAMI H 40mg/25mg Contraindications OXAMI H 40mg/25mg

OXAMI H 40mg/25mg should not be used in patients with the following conditions:

• Hypersensitivity to olmesartan, hydrochlorothiazide, other sulfonamide-derived drugs, or any component of the formulation.
• Severe renal impairment or anuria (failure to produce urine).
• Severe hepatic impairment or cholestasis.
• Pregnancy, particularly in the second and third trimesters, due to risk of fetal harm.
• Patients with refractory hypokalemia or hypercalcemia.
• Known hypersensitivity to thiazide diuretics.

Storage of OXAMI H 40mg/25mg

Proper storage ensures the medication maintains its potency and safety:

• Store tablets in their original blister packaging at room temperature, ideally between 15°C and 30°C (59°F - 86°F).
• Keep away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
• Do not store in bathrooms or humid areas.
• Keep out of reach and sight of children.
• Do not use the medication beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging.
• Dispose of unused or expired tablets according to local regulations or pharmacy guidance.