Brand name Cozaar
Used in the following combined preparation Cozaar-Comp
QUICK REFERENCE
Drug group Vasodilator and antihypertensive drug
Overdose danger rating Medium
Dependence rating Low
Prescription needed Yes
Available as generic Yes
GENERAL INFORMATION
Losartan is a member of the group of vasodilator drugs called angiotensin II blockers. Used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure), the drug works by blocking the action of angiotensin II (a naturally occurring substance that constricts blood vessels). This action causes the blood vessel walls to relax, thereby easing blood pressure. Losartan may also be used for the treatment of heart failure and for kidney disease associated with diabetes and hypertension. Unlike ACE inhibitors, losartan does not cause a persistent dry cough.
Adverse effects, which include diarrhoea, dizziness, and headache, do not commonly occur.
INFORMATION FOR USERS
Your drug prescription is tailored for you. Do not alter dosage without checking with your doctor.
How taken/used Tablets, liquid.
Frequency and timing of doses Once daily.
Adult dosage range 50–150mg. People over 75 years, and other groups that are especially sensitive to the drug’s effects, may start on 25mg.
Onset of effect Blood pressure 1–2 weeks, with maximum effect in 3–6 weeks from start of treatment. Other conditions Within an hour.
Duration of action 12–24 hours.
Diet advice None.
Storage Keep in original container at room temperature out of the reach of children.
Missed dose Take as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due within 8 hours, take a single dose now and skip the next.
Stopping the drug Do not stop the drug without consulting your doctor. Stopping the drug may lead to worsening of the underlying condition.
Exceeding the dose An occasional unintentional extra dose is unlikely to cause problems. Large overdoses may cause dizziness and fainting. Notify your doctor.
POSSIBLE ADVERSE EFFECTS
Side effects of losartan are usually mild. The most common are dizziness, headache, and diarrhoea. A cough and muscle, joint, or back pain may also occur; if so, discuss with your doctor. If wheezing or swelling of the lips or tongue occur, stop taking the drug and contact your doctor immediately.
INTERACTIONS
Vasodilators, diuretics, and other hypertensives These drugs may increase the blood-pressure-lowering effect of losartan.
Potassium supplements, potassium-sparing diuretics, and ciclosporin Losartan increases the effect of these drugs, leading to raised levels of potassium in the blood.
Lithium Losartan may increase the levels and toxicity of lithium.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) Certain NSAIDs may reduce the blood-pressure-lowering effect of losartan and may also increase the risk of kidney problems when taken with losartan.
SPECIAL PRECAUTIONS
Be sure to tell your doctor if:
· You have stenosis of the kidney arteries.
· You have liver or kidney problems.
· You have experienced angioedema.
· You have galactose intolerance.
· You are taking other medicines.
Pregnancy Not prescribed. There is evidence of harm to the developing fetus.
Breast-feeding Not prescribed. Safety not established.
Infants and children Not prescribed. Safety not established.
Over 60 Reduced dose may be necessary over 75 years.
Driving and hazardous work Do not undertake such activities until you have learned how losartan affects you because the drug can cause dizziness.
Alcohol Avoid. Alcohol may increase the blood-pressure-lowering and adverse effects of losartan.
PROLONGED USE
No special problems.
Monitoring Periodic checks on blood potassium levels may be performed.