LOSARTAN - ORAL

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (low-SAR-tan)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Cozaar

GENERIC NAME(S): losartan potassium

Medically reviewed by Matt Sommers, PharmD. Last updated on September 01, 2023.

Uses

USES: Losartan is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and to help protect the kidneys from damage due to diabetes. It is also used to lower the risk of strokes in patients with high blood pressure and an enlarged heart. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. Losartan belongs to a class of drugs called angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). It works by relaxing blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily.

How to use LOSARTAN - ORAL

HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking losartan and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily with or without food. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. If you are using the liquid form of this medication, shake the bottle well before each dose. Carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens (for example, your blood pressure readings increase).

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness or lightheadedness may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: fainting, symptoms of a high potassium blood level (such as muscle weakness, slow/irregular heartbeat). Although losartan may be used to prevent kidney problems or treat people who have kidney problems, it may also rarely cause serious kidney problems or make them worse. Your doctor will check your kidney function while you are taking losartan. Tell your doctor right away if you have any signs of kidney problems such as a change in the amount of urine. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before taking losartan, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease, severe loss of body water and minerals (dehydration). This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana. This medication may increase your potassium levels. Before using potassium supplements or salt substitutes that contain potassium, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products). This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy due to the risk for harm to an unborn baby. Consult your doctor for more details. (See also Warning section.) It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: See also Precautions section. Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval. Some products that may interact with this drug include: aliskiren, lithium, drugs that may increase the level of potassium in the blood (such as ACE inhibitors including benazepril/lisinopril, birth control pills containing drospirenone). Some products have ingredients that could raise your blood pressure or worsen your heart failure. Tell your pharmacist what products you are using, and ask how to use them safely (especially cough-and-cold products, diet aids, or NSAIDs such as ibuprofen/naproxen).

Overdose

OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe dizziness, fainting.

Images

COZAAR 25 MG TABLET

color: white
shape: oblong
imprint: 951

COZAAR 50 MG TABLET

color: white
shape: oblong
imprint: 952

COZAAR 50 MG TABLET

color: white
shape: oblong
imprint: 952

COZAAR 100 MG TABLET

color: white
shape: other
imprint: 960

COZAAR 100 MG TABLET

color: white
shape: other
imprint: 960

LOSARTAN POTASSIUM 25 MG TAB

color: light green
shape: round
imprint: 54 277

LOSARTAN POTASSIUM 50 MG TAB

color: light green
shape: round
imprint: 54 125

LOSARTAN POTASSIUM 100 MG TAB

color: light green
shape: round
imprint: 54 357

LOSARTAN POTASSIUM 25 MG TAB

color: light green
shape: oblong
imprint: 93, 7364

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Faq for LOSARTAN - ORAL

What is Losartan and how does it work

Losartan is an oral medication that belongs to a group of drugs called angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). It helps relax blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more smoothly, thereby reducing high blood pressure.

What is Losartan used for

Losartan is primarily used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) in adults and children above six years. It can also be prescribed to treat certain kidney problems in people with type 2 diabetes.

How should I take Losartan

Losartan is usually taken once a day with or without food, as directed by your doctor. It is important to take it regularly to get the most benefit from it.

What are the common side effects of Losartan

Common side effects of Losartan may include dizziness, headache, tiredness, cough, stomach pain, and diarrhea. If any of these side effects persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult your doctor.

Can I take Losartan if I am pregnant

Losartan should not be used during pregnancy as it may harm an unborn baby. If you become pregnant while taking Losartan, inform your doctor immediately.

Can Losartan interact with other medications

Yes, Losartan can interact with certain medications, including other blood pressure drugs, diuretics, potassium supplements, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It is crucial to inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking before starting Losartan.

How long does it take for Losartan to start working

The full effects of Losartan may not be seen until after several weeks of regular use. It is important to continue taking it as prescribed by your doctor, even if you feel well.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Losartan

Moderate consumption of alcohol is generally considered safe when taking Losartan, but it is best to consult your doctor regarding your specific situation.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Losartan

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

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Warning

WARNING: This drug can cause serious (possibly fatal) harm to an unborn baby if used during pregnancy. Therefore, it is important to prevent pregnancy while taking this medication. Consult your doctor for more details and to discuss the use of reliable forms of birth control while taking this medication. If you are planning pregnancy, become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor right away.

Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.