Sevikar HCT (amlodipine, olmesartan, hydrochlorothiazide) is a hypertension treatment that utilizes three different active ingredients. It is typically used when two medications are not sufficiently controlling hypertension. Usually taken just once per day, Sevikar HCT is much more convenient than taking multiple single medications.

This product contains:

• Amlodipine is a a calcium channel blocker that relaxes muscles in the heart and those that tighten and narrow blood vessels.
• Olmesartan is an angiotensin-2 receptor antagonist that blocks the naturally-occurring angiotensin II. Angiotensin II further encourages blood vessels to narrow and tighten; olmesartan does the opposite.
• Hydrochlorothiazide (HCT) is a diuretic which works by encouraging the kidneys to get rid of unneeded water and salt from the body, passed out in urine.

Together the above medications are a potent hypertension treatment; it is rare that a patient will need to add additional blood pressure reducing medications. Maximum benefit is usually experienced after about two weeks of treatment.

Sevikar HCT is also available as regular Sevikar, which contains just amlodipine and olmesartan, for those who need a somewhat less potent medication.

One can also buy olmesartan, amlodipine, or hydrochlorothiazide individually.

Taking Sevikar HCT

Sevikar HCT comes in tablets, which should be swallowed whole. Food is optional, though taking with a glass of fluid is preferred. For best results the medication should be taken at the same time each day, which keeps levels of the drug consistent.

Patients are usually started on lower doses, which may be increased if effects are insignificant. Other medications, other medical conditions, and personable variables like age and weight might also influence dosage.

In most patients:

• Start with 5/20/12.5 mg of amlodipine/olmesartan/HCT.
• After one or two weeks, dosage may be increased to 10/40/12.5 mg of amlodipine/olmesartan/HCT.
• Do not exceed 10/40/12.5 mg of amlodipine/olmesartan/HCT.

It will take about two weeks of treatment for full effects, either from the start of treatment or following dosage adjustments, to be reliably measurable. Dosage adjustments should not be made prior to a week, preferably two weeks, after starting treatment.

Treatment may continue for as long as needed, which may be for the remainder of life.

Individuals who are prescribed Sevikar HCT are usually advised to make lifestyle changes in addition to taking the medication. Lifestyle changes are the only way to end dependency on medication to keep blood pressure low and prevent risk of complications, including stroke, heart attack, and other cardiovascular events. A doctor may advise exercise, dietary changes, stopping smoking, controlling cholesterol, and so forth. While these are difficult and often unpleasant for a while, they are typically preferable to the alternative.

Hypertension often doesn't produce any symptoms until a severe event happens; it's important to continue taking the medication even if feeling fine.

Should treatment with Sevikar HCT end, dosage should be gradually reduced. Abruptly ending treatment can cause blood pressure to become very elevated, putting patients at risk of a medical emergency.

Warnings & Side Effects

Individuals with certain preexisting conditions may not be good candidates for Sevikar HCT. Patients should be sure to speak with a doctor about the risks and warning signs if there is a history of:

• Kidney or liver disease
• Heart or coronary artery disease
• Congestive heart failure
• Angina
• Heart attack

Used as directed, side effects from Sevikar HCT are relatively rare. Most commonly reported are:

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Flushing
• Hair loss
• Mild rash or itching

Because Sevikar HCT does lower blood pressure, many side effects are related to a drop in blood pressure, even if the drop doesn't bring a patient into normal or low ranges. These symptoms, including dizziness and drowsiness, often stop occurring after a week or two of treatment. If they persist or become severe enough to be disruptive, consult a doctor.

More rarely serious side effects develop, which call for medical attention:

• Passing out
• Pounding or fluttering heartbeat
• Rapid weight gain
• Edema in hands or feet
• Urinating less than usual
• Jaundice

Very rarely Sevikar HCT can cause a breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, which can ultimately lead to kidney failure. Patients should be alert for muscle tenderness, pain, or weakness, particularly if unexplained and accompanied by fever and dark-colored urine. If this happens, seek medical attention.