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Losartan |
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What is Losartan and why is it prescribed? Losartan is used in the treatment of high blood pressure. Losartan is effective when used alone or with other high blood pressure medications, such as diuretics that help the body get rid of water. Losartan is also used to slow the progress of kidney disease caused by type 2 diabetes. It is the first of a new class of blood pressure medications called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. Losartan works, in part, by preventing the hormone angiotensin II from constricting the blood vessels, which tends to raise blood pressure. You must take Losartan regularly for it to be effective. Losartan does not cure high blood pressure but it keeps it under control. How should you take Losartan? Follow your doctors directions for taking Losartan. Losartan can be taken with or without food. Take it at the same time each day. If you miss a dose 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. Store Losartan at room temperature. Keep in a tightly closed container, away from light. Are there any Losartan side effects? Losartan side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Losartan side effects may include cough, dizziness, and upper respiratory infection. Less common and rare Losartan side effects may include allergic reactions, back and leg pain, diarrhea, indigestion, insomnia, muscle cramps or pain, nasal congestion, rash, sinus problems, and swelling of face, lips, throat, and tongue. Other side effects, such as weakness and chest pain, have been reported by people taking Losartan for diabetic kidney disease. Severe allergic reactions, including swelling of the face and throat, are also a possibility. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Losartan? If Losartan is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. It is especially important to check with your doctor before taking Losartan with diuretics that leave potassium in the body (such as Aldactone, triamterene, and amiloride), Indomethacin (Indocin), Ketoconazole (Nizoral), or Troleandomycin (Tao). Are there any special warnings about Losartan? Losartan 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 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 has triggered fatal kidney problems in people with heart failure. Losartan tends to increase the level of potassium in the blood. Check with your doctor before taking potassium supplements or using a salt substitute. |
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