Benicar With Ibuprofen Interaction

Answer

There is an interaction between Benicar (olmesartan) and Advil (ibuprofen) and it is typically classified as a 'moderate' one. These drugs can sometimes be used together, but if another pain reliever option is available to you, such as Tylenol (acetaminophen), that is generally preferred.

Specifically, this combination of drugs can have two negative effects:

• They can decrease kidney function
• Benicar might now lower blood pressure as well

Interaction Details

Advil contains ibuprofen, an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug). There are two things to be concerned about in regard to its use with Benicar (olmesartan), an ARB (angiotensin II receptor blocker).

First, not only have NSAIDs, like ibuprofen, been linked to increased blood pressure if used chronically, they can reduce the blood-pressure-lowering effects of Benicar.

One study, which evaluated the use of another NSAID (indomethacin), that that it significantly reduced the blood pressure-lowering effect of two different ARBs, losartan, and valsartan.

Additionally, when NSAIDs like ibuprofen are used in combination with an ARB, like Benicar, this may cause a decline in kidney function based on the theory that NSAIDs cause a decrease in prostaglandins is at least partly responsible. This potential side effect is particularly risky in those using Benicar to treat heart failure due to the risk of fluid accumulation/edema from decreased kidney function.

How To Manage The Interaction

Alternative pain relievers, like Tylenol, should be considered as it has not been linked to increased blood pressure or a decrease in kidney function with short-term use.

However, if both you and your doctor decide ibuprofen is your best choice, it should be taken for a short amount of time as the interaction is of most concern with chronic dosing of NSAIDs. You should also be sure to monitor your blood pressure while taking the combination.

Final Words

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