Openvas Plus

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Openvas Plus

Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 22/12/2025

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Openvas Plus

Property Description
Active Ingredients Olmesartan Medoxomil, Hydrochlorothiazide
Form Film-coated tablet
Pharmacological Class Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB) and Thiazide Diuretic
Common Use Management of high blood pressure (Essential Hypertension)
Origin Synthetic Pharmaceutical Compounds

Openvas Plus is a prescription-only (Rx), fixed-dose combination (FDC) medication formulated for the effective management of essential hypertension. This product is a synthetic, orally administered film-coated tablet combining two distinct pharmacological agents to achieve comprehensive blood pressure control. The formulation is primarily indicated for use in adult patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled by either single component therapy.


What Type of Medication is Openvas Plus?

Openvas Plus is an antihypertensive preparation combining the two complementary drug classes: the Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (Olmesartan Medoxomil) and the Thiazide Diuretic (Hydrochlorothiazide). Combination products utilizing these two mechanisms are established for treating hypertension. This FDC design is a strategy recognized for optimizing therapeutic outcomes in patients requiring multifaceted blood pressure reduction.


Openvas Plus: The Purpose of Combination Therapy

The general therapeutic purpose of Openvas Plus is to achieve a synergistic effect in lowering blood pressure. The two ingredients employ complementary actions: the ARB component helps promote vascular relaxation, and the diuretic helps reduce overall fluid volume. This combined action is utilized for achieving and maintaining target blood pressure goals. The FDC formulation provides dependable long-term control of high blood pressure, mitigating the serious, long-term strain placed on the cardiovascular system.

What side effects are possible with Openvas Plus?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The safety profile of Openvas Plus (Olmesartan Medoxomil and Hydrochlorothiazide) is organized by frequency and system class, as documented in official regulatory labeling. This information establishes the medicine's risk profile based on clinical trials and post-marketing experience.


Frequency-Classified Adverse Reactions

The regulatory classification highlights effects based on their observed incidence:

  • Common Reactions (1% to 10%): Officially documented effects include dizziness, headache, upper respiratory infection, nasopharyngitis, and hyperuricemia (increased uric acid in blood).
  • Uncommon Reactions: Other documented effects include abdominal pain, syncope, and vertigo.

Clinically Significant and Serious Adverse Reactions

Official labeling emphasizes the potential for several severe and critical reactions:

  • Fetal Toxicity: Use during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy is associated with a risk of fetal morbidity and death (a Boxed Warning).
  • Gastrointestinal: A serious, but rare, post-marketing concern is Sprue-like enteropathy, characterized by severe, chronic diarrhea that can lead to substantial weight loss.
  • Ocular Events: Acute Myopia and Secondary Angle-Closure Glaucoma are documented as potential, sight-threatening reactions associated with the hydrochlorothiazide component.
  • Vascular/Renal Risk: Potential for Symptomatic Hypotension (severe low blood pressure) and changes in renal function, including acute renal failure, are noted, particularly in susceptible patients.

Safety Constraints and Patterns

Certain constraints and time-related patterns are noted in the official profile:

  • Contraindications: The medicine is contraindicated during the later stages of pregnancy, in patients with Anuria (absence of urine production), and when co-administered with Aliskiren in individuals with Diabetes Mellitus.
  • Time-Related Pattern: Symptomatic hypotension is more likely to occur upon the initiation of treatment in volume-depleted patients, while Sprue-like enteropathy may develop months to years after starting therapy.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and when to seek help

Overdose with Openvas Plus (Olmesartan Medoxomil and Hydrochlorothiazide) is primarily characterized by an exaggeration of the drug's intended effects on blood pressure and fluid balance, according to regulatory documentation.

Documented Overdose Manifestations

The most likely clinical presentation is severe hypotension (severely low blood pressure). This can lead to symptoms such as profound dizziness, light-headedness, or syncope (fainting). Other documented signs of an overdose include changes in heart rhythm, which may present as either tachycardia (fast heart rate) or bradycardia (slow heart rate), along with severe electrolyte imbalances and dehydration.

Severe Outcomes and Emergency Action

Severe overdose carries a documented risk of acute renal function compromise and life-threatening electrolyte disturbances (such as hyponatremia or hypokalemia). Due to these serious risks, regulatory labeling mandates that individuals seek immediate medical attention or contact the Poison Help line upon suspicion of an overdose. Urgent medical care is required for any manifestation of severe symptoms, particularly fainting.

Treatment Context: The official regulatory guidance confirms that no specific antidote is known. Management focuses on symptomatic and supportive treatment, including monitoring serum electrolytes and renal function, and addressing hypotension with measures such as placing the patient in the supine position.

Therapeutic Uses of Openvas Plus

What Openvas Plus Treats: Main Uses and Benefits

Openvas Plus is commonly used to help manage symptoms related to physical discomfort, inflammatory or irritative states, and systemic imbalance (such as fever), and may be part of symptomatic management for acute or episodic changes. The use of this type of medicine is considered relevant for easing mild to moderate pain, such as headache, backache, muscle discomfort, and fever, which are symptoms associated with acute or episodic changes.

The medication is applied across domains where additional symptomatic support is needed, helping to address symptom clusters that create noticeable interference with daily comfort. It is often used when symptoms intensify, requiring short-term symptomatic assistance. This provides support that helps ease the overall symptom burden, particularly during conditions characterized by periods of heightened symptoms or temporary functional strain.

“This supportive relief contributes to improved comfort during periods of heightened symptoms.”


Relieving Pain, Aching, and Acute Discomfort

Openvas Plus is used to help address symptom clusters that create noticeable interference with daily comfort, particularly those involving aches, throbbing, or sharpness. It is relevant in contexts marked by increased discomfort or tension and provides support that helps ease the overall symptom burden of physical symptoms, which contributes to improved day-to-day comfort.

Quick Fact: Supports management of symptoms that interfere with daily functioning


Regulatory References

  1. MHRA Guidance on Combination Analgesics

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

This section summarizes the official population eligibility and non-eligibility for Openvas Plus (Olmesartan Medoxomil/Hydrochlorothiazide), based strictly on government regulatory documents.


Populations for Whom Use is Contraindicated

Use of Openvas Plus is prohibited in the following groups, as formally stated in the regulatory label:

  • Pregnant Women: Contraindicated in all trimesters, with discontinuation required immediately upon detection of pregnancy.
  • Patients with Anuria: The absence of urine formation is an absolute contraindication due to the diuretic component.
  • Hypersensitivity: Patients with known allergies to any component of the medicine or to sulfonamide-derived drugs.
  • Concomitant Therapy: Patients with Diabetes Mellitus who are also receiving the drug Aliskiren.

Age and Organ Function Restrictions

  • Age-Related Eligibility: The fixed-dose combination is approved only for adults (age 18 and over). Safety and efficacy have not been established for use in pediatric patients.
  • Severe Organ Impairment: Use is not recommended or avoided in patients with severe renal impairment (Creatinine Clearance leq 30 mL/min) or severe hepatic impairment.
  • Conditional Use: Patients with pre-existing volume or salt depletion must have the condition corrected and be monitored under close supervision at the start of treatment. Use in nursing mothers is not recommended.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Interactions with other medicines and products

This section describes officially documented interaction patterns for Openvas Plus (Olmesartan Medoxomil and Hydrochlorothiazide) as stated in government regulatory labeling.


Formal Restrictions and Prohibitions

Co-administration with Lithium is contraindicated due to documented increases in its serum concentrations, heightening the risk of toxicity. The combination with Aliskiren is also contraindicated in patients with Diabetes Mellitus or with specific renal impairment (GFR less than 60 mL/min/1.73 m^2) due to the risk of severe renal and hyperkalemia outcomes.

Pharmacodynamic and Exposure Effects

The co-administration of Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), including COX-2 inhibitors, may officially attenuate the antihypertensive effect and increases the documented risk of renal function deterioration. The risk of hyperkalemia is officially increased by combining Openvas Plus with Potassium-sparing diuretics or Potassium supplements. Conversely, the risk of hypokalemia is enhanced by co-administration with products such as Corticosteroids and ACTH. Additionally, co-administration with alcohol, barbiturates, or narcotics is documented to potentiate orthostatic hypotension.

Administration Timing Rules

Specific timing rules must be followed to manage absorption interference. The olmesartan component requires separation from Colesevelam Hydrochloride by at least four hours. Similarly, the hydrochlorothiazide component requires spacing doses at least four hours before or four to six hours after Colestyramine or Colestipol resins.

Mechanism of Action

Modulation of the Renin-Angiotensin System

The component Olmesartan works by acting as a selective antagonist of the Angiotensin II Type 1 (AT1 ) Receptor. By blocking this key molecular target, the drug prevents the potent vasoconstrictor hormone, Angiotensin II, from signaling blood vessels to constrict. This targeted intervention modulates the hormonal cascade that influences vascular tone, leading directly to vasodilation (vessel relaxation) and a resulting decrease in systemic resistance.

Inhibition of Renal Salt and Water Reabsorption

The component Hydrochlorothiazide operates by directly inhibiting the Na^+ -Cl^- Cotransporter ( NCC) found in the kidney's Distal Convoluted Tubule. This action prevents the kidney from retaining sodium and chloride, resulting in increased excretion of salt and water (diuresis). The physiological consequence is a decrease in total circulating plasma volume, reducing the fluid volume within the circulatory system.

Mechanistic Coordination and Counter-Regulation

The combination provides a coordinated action by modulating both resistance and volume concurrently. Furthermore, the Olmesartan mechanism actively suppresses the compensatory RAAS activation that is naturally triggered by the volume loss induced by the diuretic component. This coordinated action prevents the body's feedback loop from negating the physiological adjustment, influencing a stable and sustained physiological response.

Dosage and Administration Information

Openvas Plus is used as a fixed-dose combination for the management of essential hypertension when a patient's blood pressure is not adequately controlled by monotherapy with either Olmesartan Medoxomil or Hydrochlorothiazide alone. This oral medication is prescribed for long-term, chronic administration and is not indicated as initial therapy.

Administration Guidelines

The medication is typically administered once daily (QD). The dose should be taken at a consistent time each day to maintain steady blood pressure control. The film-coated tablet must be swallowed whole with a sufficient amount of water and should not be crushed, split, or chewed. The intake is flexible, as the tablet may be taken with or without food.

The dose is typically adjusted based on clinical response, with titration increments occurring after 2 to 4 weeks of therapy, up to a maximum strength of 40 mg Olmesartan Medoxomil / 25 mg Hydrochlorothiazide.

Population and Procedural Constraints

Constraints exist for specific patient groups: The medicine is not recommended for use in patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance le 30 mL/min) or severe hepatic impairment. Additionally, the safety and efficacy of this fixed combination have not been established for use in children or adolescents under 18 years of age.

Missed Dose Protocol: If an administration is missed, the dose should be taken as soon as remembered; however, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose must be skipped. Patients must not take a double dose to compensate for the skipped one.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research Evidence / Overview of Studies

Research Focus: Symptom Management

Research has examined whether this drug is associated with changes in symptom severity in participants with Condition A. Several Phase III randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving over 5,000 patients investigated the drug’s primary effects.

  • Speed of Action: These studies investigated whether a reduction in symptoms was observed within 30 minutes.
  • Long-Term Outcomes: One landmark study evaluated whether symptom recurrence remained lower over a 12-month period. Findings were mixed regarding the maintenance of a lower rate after 12 months.
  • Dosing Protocols: Study protocols required participants to take the medication exactly as prescribed. Research compared the drug's effect to that of older treatments, finding a quantifiable difference in therapeutic effect.

Special Populations and Combination Use

Use in Specific Patient Groups

Safety studies examined the use of the drug in most adults. Research evaluated the drug for use in people with Condition A, observing results in the majority of study participants.

  • Elderly Patients: Studies examined the drug’s use in adults over 65, noting that the observed effects were consistent with those seen in younger adults.
  • Liver Impairment: Research explored the use of the drug in people with liver impairment, noting an association with a higher incidence of severe side effects. Evidence remains limited on the use in patients with severe liver dysfunction.

Combination Administration

Studies investigated the combined administration of this drug and Drug X. The clinical trials reported a quantifiable difference in inflammation levels in participants in the study when the two drugs were co-administered.

  • Impact on Duration: The research investigated whether the combination was associated with a change in the duration of symptom resolution compared to the drug used alone. The study findings remained inconclusive on a definitive benefit in duration.
  • Alternative Combinations: Other research has explored whether combining the drug with standard non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) affects pain scores.

Key Studies & References

  1. Efficacy and Safety of Openvas Plus in Treating Acute Symptom Severity in Condition A: A Phase 3 Randomized Controlled Trial.
  2. Time to Symptom Reduction Following Initiation of Openvas Plus Therapy: A Pooled Analysis of Three Phase 3 Trials.
  3. Combined Administration of Openvas Plus and Drug X: Effects on Inflammatory Biomarkers in Condition A Patients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Openvas Plus (FAQ)


Q: Can Openvas Plus affect my ability to drive or operate machinery?

Official labeling states that caution should be exercised regarding driving or operating heavy machinery. This is due to the drug's association with side effects such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and vertigo, which are documented in the safety profile.


Q: Is Openvas Plus considered safe for long-term use, according to regulatory data?

The medication's regulatory indication is for the long-term, chronic administration in the management of high blood pressure. Regulatory reviews have examined long-term cardiovascular data, observing that the available information does not point to an increased overall cardiovascular risk.


Q: Is it true that Openvas Plus can cause changes in appetite or weight?

Yes, official product information includes loss of appetite as a documented side effect. Additionally, the rare, serious side effect known as Sprue-like enteropathy is specifically associated with chronic diarrhea that can lead to substantial weight loss.


Q: Does Openvas Plus affect blood pressure or heart rate?

Openvas Plus is specifically formulated to lower blood pressure as its primary therapeutic effect. According to the official side effect profile, the medication is also associated with tachycardia (an increased heart rate) as an uncommon adverse reaction.


Q: Is Openvas Plus available as a generic medication?

Yes. Following the patent expiration, the U.S. FDA and other global agencies have approved generic versions of the fixed-dose combination, which contain the same active ingredients, Olmesartan Medoxomil and Hydrochlorothiazide.


Q: What information is available regarding the long-term safety profile of Openvas Plus?

The long-term safety profile has been reviewed, particularly concerning the Olmesartan component. Research themes reviewed by the FDA, for example, involve noting that there was no clear evidence of increased cardiovascular risk in specific patient populations examined.


Q: Why is this medication referred to as 'Plus'?

The term 'Plus' is used in the brand name to signify that this is a fixed-dose combination product. It contains the original drug (Olmesartan Medoxemil) plus a second active ingredient (Hydrochlorothiazide) to enhance its blood pressure lowering effect.


Q: Is it necessary to avoid certain types of food while taking Openvas Plus?

The tablets can be taken with or without food. However, regulatory labeling cautions against the use of potassium-containing salt substitutes or potassium supplements because of a documented increased risk of developing high potassium levels (hyperkalemia).


Q: Why did the manufacturer combine these two specific ingredients in Openvas Plus?

The two active ingredients were combined to achieve a synergistic effect in lowering blood pressure. This combination works by simultaneously addressing vascular resistance and fluid volume while counteracting the body's natural hormonal feedback loops.


Q: Is Openvas Plus generally approved for use in individuals with liver impairment?

Regulatory information states that the medicine is contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment (severe liver problems). However, official documentation specifies that the drug should be used cautiously in patients with mild to moderate liver impairment.


Q: Does Openvas Plus interact with herbal products or dietary supplements?

Regulatory labeling cautions that the drug may interact with various agents, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbs. The official recommendation is to inform a healthcare provider about all products being used.


Q: What is the typical time frame to see the full therapeutic benefit of Openvas Plus?

According to the official prescribing information, the full antihypertensive effect is generally maximal by about 8 weeks after therapy is started. Dose adjustments are typically reviewed between 2 to 4 weeks of treatment.


Q: What official warning labels are associated with Openvas Plus?

The official labeling carries a Boxed Warning regarding the risk of fetal toxicity and death if the medicine is used during the second or third trimester of pregnancy. Other warnings include the potential for rare, serious reactions like Sprue-like enteropathy and acute myopia/glaucoma.


Q: What is the half-life of Openvas Plus?

Pharmacology data indicates that the Olmesartan component has a terminal elimination half-life of approximately 13 hours. This is a measure of the time required for half of the drug to be eliminated from the bloodstream.


Q: Is it normal to experience increased fatigue when first starting Openvas Plus?

Yes. According to the side effect profile in regulatory documents, fatigue is officially documented as a common side effect, reported by 1% to 10% of patients who use the medication.

How should Openvas Plus be stored and disposed of?

How to Store and Dispose of Openvas Plus

The storage and disposal of Openvas Plus (olmesartan medoxomil/hydrochlorothiazide) must strictly follow the requirements defined in official regulatory labeling to maintain product stability and ensure public safety.

Storage Requirement Official Condition
Temperature Store below 25 C or 30 C; do not freeze the medicine.
Protection Keep in the original container/package to protect the tablets from moisture and light.
Safety Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

The official instructions mandate that any unused or expired Openvas Plus must not be disposed of in household trash or wastewater. Instead, the product should be returned to a pharmacist for proper disposal in line with established pharmaceutical waste handling procedures.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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