Brand name:
Losartan Potassium
Pronounced: Lo-sa-ahr
Generic name: Losartan potassium
Why is Losartan Potassium prescribed?
Losartan Potassium is used in the treatment of high blood pressure. It is effective
when used alone or with other high blood pressure medications, such
as diuretics that help the body get rid of water.
Losartan Potassium is also used to slow the progress of kidney disease caused
by type 2 diabetes (the type of diabetes that doesn't require insulin
shots). It is the first of a new class of blood pressure medications
called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. Losartan Potassium works, in part,
by preventing the hormone angiotensin II from constricting the blood
vessels, which tends to raise blood pressure.
Most important fact about Losartan Potassium
You must take Losartan Potassium regularly for it to be effective. Since blood
pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get
the full benefit of Losartan Potassium, and you must continue taking it even if
you are feeling well. Losartan Potassium does not cure high blood pressure; it
merely keeps it under control.
How should you take Losartan Potassium?
Losartan Potassium can be taken with or without food.
Take it at the same time each day. For example, if you take the medication
every morning before or after breakfast, you will establish a regular
routine and be less likely to forget your dose.
Why should Losartan Potassium not be prescribed?
Do not take Losartan Potassium when you are pregnant. Avoid it if you have ever
h
ad an allergic reaction to it.
Special warnings about Losartan Potassium
Losartan Potassium can cause low blood pressure, especially if you are also taking
a diuretic. You may feel light-headed or faint, especially during the
first few days of therapy. If these symptoms occur, contact your doctor.
Your dosage may need to be adjusted or discontinued. Be sure you know
how you react to Losartan Potassium before you drive or operate machinery.
Excessive sweating, dehydration, severe diarrhea, or vomiting could
make you lose too much water, causing a severe drop in blood pressure.
Call your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.
Be sure to tell your doctor about any medical conditions you have,
especially liver or kidney disease and congestive heart failure. In
very rare cases, Losartan Potassium has triggered fatal kidney problems in people
with heart failure.
Losartan Potassium tends to increase the level of potassium in the blood. Check
with your doctor before taking potassium supplements or using a salt
substitute.
Possible food and drug interactions when
taking Losartan Potassium
If Losartan Potassium is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either
could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important
to check with your doctor before taking Losartan Potassium with the following:
Diuretics that leave potassium in the body, such as Aldactone,
triamterene, and amiloride
Indomethacin (Indocin)
Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
Troleandomycin (Tao)
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Drugs such as Losartan Potassium can cause injury or even death to the unborn
child when used in the second or third trimester of pregnancy. Stop
taking Losartan Potassium as soon as you know you are pregnant. If you are pregnant
or plan to become pregnant, tell your doctor before taking Losartan Potassium.
Losartan Potassium may appear in breast milk and could affect the nursing infant.
If Losartan Potassium is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you
to stop breastfeeding while you are taking Losartan Potassium.
Recommended dosage for Losartan Potassium
ADULTS
Overdosage
If you miss a dose Losartan Potassium (Cozaar, Losartan)
Take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose,
skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule.
Storage instructions Losartan Potassium (Cozaar, Losartan)
Store at room temperature. Keep in a tightly closed container, away
from light.
Losartan Potassium (Cozaar, Losartan) side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue taking Losartan Potassium.
* Side effects may include:
Cough, dizziness, upper respiratory infection
Other side effects, such as weakness and chest pain, have been reported
by people taking Losartan Potassium for diabetic kidney disease. Severe allergic
reactions, including swelling of the face and throat, are also a possibility.
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you
suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Information
concerning Losartan Potassium overdosage is limited. However, hypotension (low
blood pressure) and abnormally rapid or slow heartbeat may be signs
of an overdose.
If you miss a dose Losartan Potassium (Cozaar, Losartan)
Take Losartan Potassium as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next
dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule.
Storage instructions Losartan Potassium
Store at room temperature. Keep in a tightly closed container, away
from light.
Losartan Potassium (Cozaar, Losartan) side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue taking Losartan Potassium.
* Side effects may include:
Cough, dizziness, upper respiratory infection
Other side effects, such as weakness and chest pain, have been reported
by people taking Losartan Potassium for diabetic kidney disease. Severe allergic
reactions, including swelling of the face and throat, are also a possibility.
