About Benicar and Benicar HCT

Benicar is a type of high blood pressure medicine called an angiotensin receptor blocker or ARB. It blocks the action of a substance in the body called angiotensin II that increases blood pressure.

Ask Your Doctor

Print a customized list of questions to ask your doctor about high blood pressure and Benicar/Benicar HCT.

  • Benicar is indicated for the treatment of high blood pressure. It can be used alone or with other drugs that treat high blood pressure.
  • Benicar HCT is one pill that combines two different types of drugs that treat high blood pressure. One component is Benicar. The other component is in a class called thiazide diuretics, and works by helping your body get rid of excess water. The two classes of drugs work together to reduce blood pressure.

Why would my doctor switch me to Benicar HCT?

If you are taking Benicar, and your blood pressure has not gone down as much as it should, your doctor may prescribe Benicar HCT.

BENICAR and BENICAR HCT are indicated for the treatment of high blood pressure. They may be used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents. BENICAR HCT is not indicated for initial therapy.

Who should not take Benicar/Benicar HCT?

If you are pregnant, you should not take either Benicar or Benicar HCT.

USE IN PREGNANCY

When used in pregnancy during the second and third trimesters, drugs that act directly on the renin-angiotensin system can cause injury and even death to the developing fetus. When pregnancy is detected, BENICAR or BENICAR HCT should be discontinued as soon as possible. See WARNINGS, Fetal/Neonatal Morbidity and Mortality in the product information.

Did You Know?

Finding it difficult to remember to take your medicine?

If you associate taking your medicines with another activity you always do — like brushing your teeth — you'll be more likely to remember to take your medicines when you should. But remember, always take your medicines as directed by your doctor.

Source: Mass.gov. GIC Health Articles. Available at: http://www.mass.gov/gic/healthartdrugcompliance.htm. Accessed May 28, 2008.

DCSIMG