Uses

Losartan(Cozaar) is an angiotension receptor blocker. It decreases the body’s production of angiotension 2, a hormone that can lead to increases in blood pressure. It also causes the adrenal gland to secrete aldosterone. It is commonly used to treat hypertension.

How to Use

Take this medication by mouth with water, it can be taken with or without food.

Take it exactly as directed, do not take it more than directed.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is already almost time for your next dose, take only that next dose. Do not double up on any dose.

Important Information

Notify your doctor if you notice a fast heart rate or other heartbeat changes.

Notify your doctor if you believe your may become pregnant while taking this medication. If you become pregnant, there is potential for adverse events to occur to the fetus.

Check your blood pressure and meet with your doctor regularly while on this medication.

Do not operate heavy machinery, drive a car, or engage in other activity that requires fine motor skills until you are sure of how this medication affects you.

Avoid alcohol consumption, alcohol can increase chances of dizziness or drowsiness occurring.

Consult with your doctor before taking medication to self treat coughs and colds while taking this medication.

Be sure that your prescribing doctor is aware if you have any of the the following conditions before taking this medication

Kidney disease, liver disease, heart failure, allergic reaction history, pregnancy, breastfeeding, trying to become pregnant.

Side effects that should be immediately reported to your healthcare provider

Allergic reactions(hives,  itching, swelling of the face or mouth), trouble breathing, tightening of throat,  rash, decreased urine output, heart beat changes or chest pain, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, feet or hands, dizziness, confusion, falls, lightheadedness, dizziness.

Other Side Effects

Nausea, cramps, sinus congestion, headache, libido changes, cough.

Adult Dose

Hypertension

50 mg by mouth once daily as a starting dose. The dose is then adjusted according to the patient’s response to between 25-100 mg per day which can be taken in one dose or two divided doses.

Heart Failure

12.5 mg by mouth once daily as a starting dose. The dose is then adjusted after 7 days by intervals of 12.5mg based on patient response.

Diabetic Nephropathy

50 mg by mouth once daily as a starting dose. The dose is then increased based on patient response.

Sources

1. Cozaar ® oral tablets, losartan potassium oral tablets[package insert]. Whitehouse Station, NJ: Merck & Co.,Inc;  2005.

2. Pitt B, Segal R, Martinez FA, et al: Randomised trial of losartan versus captopril in patients over 65 with heart failure (evaluation of losartan in the elderly study, ELITE). Lancet 1997; 349:747-752.