Compare benicar and losartan?

Are you tired of your hypertension putting a damper on your day-to-day life? Want to know what the best medication for high blood pressure is? Look no further! Today, we bring you the ultimate showdown between two heavyweight contenders – Benicar and Losartan. In this article, we will compare these drugs from head to toe (or rather top to bottom) and find out which one emerges as the victor.

Introduction

High blood pressure or hypertension is a common yet potentially harmful medical condition that affects millions worldwide. There are several medications available in the market aimed at controlling blood pressure levels effectively. Among them, two drugs have gained significant popularity among doctors and patients alike – Olmesartan Medoxomil (Benicar) and Losartan Potassium (Losartan).

While both of them belong to the same drug class called Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), they have different chemical compositions, ways of action, side effects, etc. So let’s delve into deeper insights about each of them.

Round 1: Chemical Composition

As mentioned before both Benicar and Losartan belong to ARB class but their molecular structures differ. While Olmesartan medoxomil forms an ester after reacting with hydroxide ion in our body ,Losartin potassium, belongs to a class called tetrazole-containing agents which undergo biotransformation in vivo(inside living organisms). The mechanism through which they confer antihypertensive effect might also involves different signaling pathways albeit working mainly towards reducing vasoconstriction caused by angiotensin II.receptor antagonist do not interfere with receptors directly?

Round 2: Indication

Both medications are hypotensors used in essential arterial hypertension only.Therefore ,it is important to verify contraindications before any use,to avoid potential unwanted consequences.

Round 3: Dosages-

Both Benicar and Losartan come in various doses. The correct dosage of each drug depends on the age, medical history, current health condition and individual response of the patient.In general,Benicar is usually prescribed once daily with or without food,and has a maximum dose of 40mg per day whilst losartan may be (though not required) taken alongside meals depending on how fast it kicks against angiotensin II.

Below is a table outlining different forms,dosage range for both medication(Benicar left hand side.Losartan right-hand side)

Form Dosage Range
Benicar(hydrochlorothiazide-free) 5 mg – 40 mg
BenicarHCT(Hydrochlorothiazide-comb.) 20/12.5-40/25mg
losartan 25 mg-100mg

The decision upon which one ,will ultimately depends upon various factors,but most importantly,the Blood pressure achieved after medications could also influence further choice about suitable therapy.Administration intervals such as once daily or twice have been studied more widely for olmesartan than those containing hydrochlrothizade .However,frequency should always be interpreted by following physician’s advice

Round 4: Mechanism Of Action

Angiotensin II,a highly powerful endogenous peptide takes an important role in maintaining blood pressure levels via regulation of vascular system.When released,it binds onto its receptors and triggers vasoconstriction.However,this effect seems less pronounced under Olmesertan influence.This teratment does not simply act as angiotension receptor antagonist but can attenuate inflammation especially via tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-a).On the other hand,Losartan main action lies in blocking binding of angiotension II to its receptors and thus preventing blood vessels from constriction.

Round 5: Side Effects

No medication comes risk-free. Both Benicar and Losartan have shown some potential side effects.Some adverse reaction are mild while others will be severe enough to warrant a switch or cessation of treatment altogether.Here is the list:

Benicar Side Effects:

  • Dizziness.
  • Fatigue
  • Joint pain
  • Diarrhea.

Benicar has also been linked with several reported cases of celiac disease – An autoimmune disorder caused due to gluten intolerance.However,the link between these two remains unclear

Losartan Side Effets:

It appears that olmesertan medoxomil may carry fewer side effect than losartin potassium based on studies available.However,it does not mean that losartin should necessarily be avoided .A doctor should always consider patient’s individual situation when deciding upon the most suitable medication for patient.Below are common side effets associated with losartin

  • Headache.
  • Cough.
  • Back pain
  • Abdominal Pain/Cramps

Round 6:Efficacy

Both Olmesertan mdedoximil,best known as benecial,and losarin(Sold under various brand name) can term themselves as effective.Clinical trials prove their ability in bringing down systolic blood pressure levels.Moreover,a couple of earlier trial indicates that ‘olmesartan,’at equivalent dosage,could bring greater drug effect size in achieving significant BP reduction compared with other members within tis class-In certain patients,however ,sometimes adjustment might still be needed(it mostly depends on an individuals’ response)

While both medications offer blood pressure control effectively, it is important to note how the specific medication affects each patient. So if you’re wondering which one is better, there’s no clear winner. It depends upon a variety of factors as mentioned earlier.

Round 7: Cost

One major differentiating factor between these two medications is the cost.Due to patent expiration, they are now widely available in generics pharmaceutical shells ,meaning prices have been driven down consistently.For renal patients however,Losartan may still prove more costly .

Final Verdict

To summarize Benicar and Losartan are both competent hypertension drugs with unique features.However,it ultimately boils down specific health conditions and response to medication.The decision should solely be made after careful consideration of consulting doctor who will take individual history,test results,family medical history into account.Happy Medicating!

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