I was on 20mg of Benicar. It really helped lower my blood pressure but made my heart race. Doc then gave me Verelan and I have been totally miserable. I'm experiencing several side effects, swelling in my ankles (so bad sometimes I can't wear my shoes), increased urination (makes it difficult to get a good nights sleep), and some female problems too. My blood pressure is still running around 150/90. Not nearly as well as the monopril (120/80). I also tried diuretics but they too make my heart race.