What Is Amlodipine and Olmesartan Used For? (Cont.)

How Does Amlodipine and Olmesartan Work?

Amlodipine (one of the components of amlodipine and olmesartan) is part of a class of drugs called calcium channel blockers. Amlodipine helps to slow down the rate at which calcium moves into your heart and blood vessel walls. This, in turn, helps to relax the blood vessels, which improves blood flow and lowers blood pressure. It also makes it easier for the heart to pump blood.
 
The other component of amlodipine and olmesartan (olmesartan) belongs to a group of medications called angiotensin II receptor blockers (often referred to as "ARBs"). Angiotensin II is a very potent vasoconstrictor (which means that it causes blood vessels to narrow, which, in turn, increases blood pressure). Olmesartan works by blocking angiotensin II receptors, preventing angiotensin II from having an effect on the blood vessels. This helps the blood vessels relax, which lowers blood pressure.
 

Amlodipine and Olmesartan Use in Children

Amlodipine has not been studied in children younger than six years old. Olmesartan has not been studied in children or adolescents under 18 years of age. The combination medication (amlodipine and olmesartan) has not been studied in any children or adolescents. Be sure to talk with your healthcare provider about the potential benefits and risks of using amlodipine and olmesartan in children.
 

Off-Label Amlodipine and Olmesartan Uses

On occasion, your healthcare provider may recommend amlodipine and olmesartan for something other than the uses discussed in this article. At this time, there are no universally accepted off-label amlodipine and olmesartan uses.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;