Bizoran (Amlodipine / Olmesartan Medoxomil)

Indications

Bizoran is indicated for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure), either alone or with other agents, to lower blood pressure. It is used as initial therapy in patients likely to need multiple antihypertensive agents to achieve their blood pressure goals.

Pharmacology

Bizoran is a combination drug targeting two different pathways:

1. Amlodipine (Calcium Channel Blocker): Inhibits calcium ion influx into vascular smooth muscle, acting as a peripheral arterial vasodilator. This directly reduces peripheral vascular resistance and blood pressure.

2. Olmesartan Medoxomil (Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker, ): Selectively blocks the binding of Angiotensin II to the receptor. This action blocks the vasoconstrictor and aldosterone-secreting effects of Angiotensin II, a potent hormone in the Renin-Angiotensin System.

Dosage & Administration

• Initial Therapy: Initiate with 5/20 mg (5 mg Amlodipine / 20 mg Olmesartan Medoxomil) once daily for 1 to 2 weeks.

• Titration: Titrate as needed up to a maximum of 10/40 mg once daily.

• Elderly Patients ( years): Due to decreased clearance of Amlodipine, the recommended starting dose of Amlodipine is . Since the lowest combination dose is , initial therapy with this combination is not recommended in patients years old.

Contraindications

• Cannot be co-administered with Aliskiren in patients with diabetes.

Side Effects

The most common side effects include:

• Peripheral edema (swelling)

• Headache

• Flushing

• Dizziness

• It can also cause intestinal problems known as sprue-like enteropathy.

Precautions & Warnings

Use with caution due to the risk of:

• Hypotension in volume- or salt-depleted patients.

• Increased frequency or severity of angina or acute in patients with severe obstructive coronary artery disease.

• Vasodilation in patients with severe aortic stenosis.

Pregnancy & Lactation

• Pregnancy Category D: Should not be used in the and trimesters as it can cause fetal death. Discontinue as soon as pregnancy is detected.

• Lactation: Nursing should be discontinued if the drug is essential to the mother, due to the potential for adverse effects on the infant.

Special Populations

• Hepatic Impairment: Initial therapy is not recommended.

• Renal Impairment & Pediatric Use: Safety and effectiveness have not been established.

Therapeutic Class: Combined antihypertensive preparations.

Storage: Do not store above 30∘C.