Olmesartan-induced Enteropathy: A Rare Side Effect of a Common Medication

Mustafa Sher1, Michael Murray2, Lloyd McGuire3

  • 1Neurological Surgery, Griffith University, Southport, AUS.

Cureus
|January 24, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Olmesartan, a hypertension medication, can cause sprue-like enteropathy, a rare gastrointestinal condition. Discontinuing olmesartan resolved the patient's symptoms, highlighting the importance of medication review.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Pharmacology
  • Internal Medicine

Background:

  • Ischemic heart disease and stroke are leading global causes of mortality.
  • Hypertension is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.
  • Olmesartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), is prescribed for hypertension management.

Observation:

  • A 72-year-old patient presented with chronic diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss.
  • Intestinal biopsy revealed villous atrophy, indicative of malabsorption.
  • The patient was taking olmesartan for hypertension.

Findings:

  • The patient's gastrointestinal symptoms resolved after olmesartan was discontinued.
  • This suggests a causal link between olmesartan use and sprue-like enteropathy.
  • Villous atrophy normalized, confirming the diagnosis.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of detailed medication histories in diagnosing unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms.
  • Physicians should consider olmesartan-induced enteropathy in patients with similar presentations.
  • Regular medication review is crucial for patient safety and effective treatment.

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