Description

The combination of Olmesartan and Amlodipine is an oral medication that combines two different types of drugs used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). It is available as a single tablet, which helps to simplify treatment and improve patient adherence.

Indication

This drug is indicated for the treatment of essential hypertension. The combination is particularly useful for patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled by either Olmesartan or Amlodipine alone.

Mechanism of Action

This medication works through a dual mechanism to lower blood pressure:

1. Olmesartan: This is an Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB). It selectively blocks the binding of angiotensin II to the AT1 receptor in vascular smooth muscle, which prevents the vasoconstrictive (narrowing of blood vessels) effects of angiotensin II. This leads to vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) and a reduction in blood pressure.
2. Amlodipine: This is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker (CCB). It inhibits the influx of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle. By reducing the calcium concentration in smooth muscle cells, it causes peripheral arterial vasodilation, which lowers blood pressure. Amlodipine’s effect on heart rate is minimal at therapeutic doses.

The combination of these two mechanisms provides a more effective and complementary approach to lowering blood pressure than either drug alone.