I've already asked a few but would like to know if anyone else has or is using benicar. My LLD wants me to start using it, she follows ILADS not Marshall. I'm not sure how this is supposed to help. Is anyone taking this? What is it doing/ has done for you.
Its tier 3 for my insurance making it quite expensive compared to other rx's I'm taking. Good and bad stories are appreciated.
[ 04-29-2009, 09:18 PM: Message edited by: bwillis ]
Posted by bv (Member # 9578) on :
I take it as a blood pressure med. Had no idea it was useful versus LD.
Posted by dguy (Member # 8979) on :
benicar reduces inflammation without turning down the immune system response, thus it can make the herx process more tolerable
Posted by seibertneurolyme (Member # 6416) on :
Hubby takes this because it is a very strong vasodilator and improves bloodflow to the brain. Has helped some with headaches and also tremors.
He only takes 5 mg 2 times per day -- this is a very low dose, but he can't take a higher dose due to side effects.
His blood pressure was normal to begin with, but the med has lowered it almost too much -- usually 110/62. Other side effects are orthostatic hypotension type dizzyness.
So far hubby's LLMD has given us samples because they don't think insurance will approve the med.
Bea Seibert
Posted by JRWagner (Member # 3229) on :
Actually Benicar is not a vasodilator. It works by stopping vasoconstriction...very different mechanisms. Norvasc, a Channel Blocker, IS a vasodilator.
BTW...the Marshall Protocol is as bogus as the doctor and his research institute!!! Do not waste your money. Been there, done that.
Peace, Love and Wellness, JRW
Posted by jmb (Member # 18338) on :
A year back when all hell broke loose, I watched the blood pressure increase over a couple months or so. So Benicar made sense to me, the doc and the insurance folk.
It has been three months or so. And I like it. I have not had a head-spitter headache - a hallmark Lyme-related problem - since I started the Benicar.