Losartan

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Ciplazar, Cozaar, Hytenza, Zartan

Popular combinations:

Cozaar Comp, Hytenza Co, Zartan Co

Drug group:

Vasodilator and antihypertensive drug

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Losartan is a vasodilator drug used in the treatment of:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Heart failure
• Kidney disease associated with diabetes and hypertension

How does it work?

• Losartan is an angiotensin II blocker (a type of vasodilator drug)
• Blocking the action of angiotensin II (a naturally occurring substance that constricts blood vessels), causes the blood vessel walls to relax, which reduces blood pressure

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Adults: 50–150mg taken once daily
• People over 75 years or people sensitive to the drug’s effects may start on 25mg

How quickly will it start to work?

[Blood pressure] within 1–2 weeks but maximum effect in after 3–6 weeks

[Other conditions] within an hour

How long will the effects last?

12–24 hours       
                     

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop the drug without consulting your doctor.     
                           

Is it safe for prolonged use?

No special problems, but you will need regular checks on blood potassium levels.

What are the possible side effects?

Side effects of losartan are usually mild.

The following have been reported:

• More common: dizziness, headache, diarrhoea
• Less common: cough, muscle/joint/back pain
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: wheezing, swelling of the lips/tongue

Unlike ACE inhibitors, losartan does not cause a persistent dry cough.

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: stenosis of the kidney arteries, liver/kidney problems, previous angioedema, galactose intolerance
• Other medicines: other anti-hypertensives, potassium supplements, potassium-sparing diuretics, ciclosporin, lithium, Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Safety not established, not prescribed
• Children: Not prescribed
• Over 60: Reduced dose may be necessary over 75 years
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, the drug can cause dizziness
• Alcohol: Avoid, further blood-pressure-lowering effects