Difference between Olmesartan and Olmesartan Medoxomil
Olmesartan and olmesartan medoxomil are both medications used to treat hypertension, or high blood pressure. While they have the same active ingredient, olmesartan, they differ in their formulations and how they are metabolized in the body. Understanding these differences can help patients and healthcare providers make informed decisions about their treatment options.
Olmesartan: An Overview
Olmesartan is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). It works by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a hormone that causes blood vessels to narrow, thereby reducing blood pressure. Olmesartan is available in various formulations, including immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules.
Olmesartan Medoxomil: An Overview
Olmesartan medoxomil is a prodrug, which means it is an inactive form of the drug that is converted into the active form, olmesartan, in the body. It is also an ARB and works in the same way as olmesartan. The main difference is that olmesartan medoxomil is taken once daily, while olmesartan may require more frequent dosing.
Formulation and Absorption
One of the primary differences between olmesartan and olmesartan medoxomil is their formulation. Olmesartan is available in immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules, which allow for once-daily dosing. On the other hand, olmesartan medoxomil is available only in an extended-release formulation, which also allows for once-daily dosing.
The extended-release formulations of both medications are designed to release the active ingredient slowly over time, ensuring a steady level of olmesartan in the bloodstream. However, the extended-release capsules of olmesartan medoxomil may have a slightly slower release rate compared to the extended-release capsules of olmesartan.
Metabolism and Elimination
Another difference between olmesartan and olmesartan medoxomil lies in their metabolism and elimination. Olmesartan is metabolized primarily in the liver and excreted in the urine and feces. In contrast, olmesartan medoxomil is metabolized in the liver and excreted in the urine.
The metabolism of olmesartan medoxomil into olmesartan may result in a slower onset of action compared to olmesartan. However, both medications have similar efficacy in lowering blood pressure.
Conclusion
In summary, the main difference between olmesartan and olmesartan medoxomil lies in their formulations and metabolism. Olmesartan is available in immediate-release and extended-release formulations, while olmesartan medoxomil is available only in an extended-release formulation. Despite these differences, both medications are effective in treating hypertension. Patients and healthcare providers should consider these factors when selecting the most appropriate treatment option for their individual needs.
