Tag: Sprue like enteropathy

While severe, chronic diarrhea is a rare side effect of olmesartan, medical authorities have identified a specific intestinal condition called sprue-like enteropathy that can develop months to years after starting the drug. This can cause significant weight loss, chronic diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal symptoms. Prompt medical evaluation is critical for diagnosis and management.

In 2012, approximately 1.9 million patients in the U.S. received a prescription for olmesartan-containing products [1.4.1]. While effective for high blood pressure, a key question for users is: **does olmesartan cause diarrhea?** The answer is yes, including a rare, severe form.

In 2013, the FDA issued a warning about a rare but serious intestinal condition linked to olmesartan, leading many to question, "Is olmesartan a bad blood pressure medicine?". This inquiry is more complex than a simple yes-or-no answer, involving a careful examination of its unique risks alongside its proven efficacy in managing hypertension.

First identified approximately a decade after its market introduction, a serious and rare intestinal condition known as sprue-like enteropathy is a key long-term side effect of olmesartan. This angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), prescribed for high blood pressure, necessitates ongoing medical supervision to monitor for this delayed but potentially debilitating complication.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) places black box warnings on medications to highlight serious or life-threatening risks. Olmesartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used to treat high blood pressure, carries two black box warnings: one for fetal toxicity and another for a severe gastrointestinal condition called sprue-like enteropathy.

In July 2013, the FDA issued a safety communication warning that the blood pressure drug olmesartan, also known by the brand name Benicar, could cause a severe gastrointestinal illness. This warning, which followed extensive adverse event reports and mounting clinical evidence, is the primary reason why was olmesartan discontinued.