I've been taking Benicar for approximately 1 year. Prior to taking the medication My blood pressure was running around 150/78 while at the doctor's office. One time at work it did peak at 180/100 (very stressful day) nurse told me to go see my doctor. Started with lotensin and had very bad side effects first week-rapid heart beat / frequent papations. Changed to Benicar 20mg.- bp didn't seem to drop (at doctor's ran 160/80) -got to be so nervous when they started to check I think that caused the high readings. Dr.. upped the Benicar to 40mg.- week later she wanted to add another bp medication - I bought a home monitor (auto inflate) an began to take my own-it runs at times 89/58 pulse at 60. Most time is 95/65. In September while at work I had a very bad dizzy spell / difficulty walking (felt like I was 10 feet tall!)-couldn't stand movement of any kind-nurse took my BP and it was 180/100! Went to the dr-Bp was down and was put on antibiotics for possible inner ear infection. That was 3 months ago -still having balance problems. BP at home still running in 90/60 or less. Dr wants me to continue the Benicar. Had carpal tunnel surgery 3 weeks ago and my bp at the hospital prior to surgery was 120/70 (I was extremely nervous you would think it would be have been higher))-in recovery it was 100/70 or less and the nurse commented that my bp stays pretty consistent. ( I could see my bp by the monitor I was attached to). I think my dosage needs to be lowered-but dr doesn't agree. BP under 90/60 cant be good. Any suggestions or input appreciated! I was very apprehensive to begin taking the pills-but doctor told me the risks associated with HBP and scared me into them. Now I'm nervous about trying to get off-told once your one that's it -your one for rest of your life. (By the way I have lost about 35 pounds since starting the Benicar)