US Brand Name: Cozaar (Losartan)

Pharmacologic category: Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs)

Other medications in this category include: {Valsartan} (Diovan), {Olmesartan} (Benicar), {Irbesartan} (Avapro), {Telmisartan} (Micardis), {Candesartan} (Atacand), and {Eprosartan} (Teveten).

Diseases Treated, Dosing, and Treatment Duration:

{Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)}: 25-100 mg/day in 1-2 divided doses. Adjust dose based on response after 3-6 weeks of treatment.
{Diabetic Nephropathy}: 50-100 mg/day in 1-2 divided doses. Adjust dose based on response after 3-6 weeks of treatment.
{Left Ventricular Hypertrophy}: 50-100 mg/day in 1-2 divided doses. Adjust dose based on response after 3-6 weeks of treatment.
{Heart Failure}: 25-50 mg/day in 1-2 divided doses. Adjust dose based on response after 3-6 weeks of treatment.
{Chronic Kidney Disease}: 25-100 mg/day in 1-2 divided doses. Adjust dose based on response after 3-6 weeks of treatment.
{Proteinuria}: 50-100 mg/day in 1-2 divided doses. Adjust dose based on response after 3-6 weeks of treatment.
{Stroke Prevention}: 50 mg/day initially, can increase to 100 mg/day based on response.

Dosage Forms and Strengths:

Tablets: 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg.

Administration Instructions:

It can be taken with or without food, preferably at the same time each day. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water.

Adverse Reactions and Side Effects:

{Dizziness} (6-14%): Feeling lightheaded or unsteady, particularly when standing up. {Fatigue} (3-8%): Feeling tired or lacking energy. {Hypotension} (3-7%): Abnormally low blood pressure. {Nasal congestion} (2-4%): Stuffy nose or difficulty breathing through the nose. {Back pain} (1-4%): Pain or discomfort in the back area. {Diarrhea} (1-4%): Loose or watery stools. {Hyperkalemia} (1-2%): Elevated levels of potassium in the blood. {Cough} (1-2%): Persistent dry cough.

Contraindications:

It is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to Losartan or any of its components.

Drug-to-Drug Interactions:

{Lithium} (Lithobid): Increased risk of lithium toxicity when used with Losartan. {Potassium-sparing diuretics} (e.g., {Spironolactone} (Aldactone), {Triamterene} (Dyrenium), {Amiloride}): Increased risk of {hyperkalemia}. {Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)} (e.g., {Ibuprofen} (Advil, Motrin), {Naproxen} (Aleve)): Reduced antihypertensive effects and increased risk of renal dysfunction. {Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors} (e.g., {Lisinopril} (Prinivil, Zestril), {Ramipril} (Altace), {Enalapril} (Vasotec)): Concurrent use with Losartan may increase the risk of {hyperkalemia}, {hypotension}, and renal dysfunction.

Is this medication safe to take when pregnant?

No, Losartan is not safe to take during pregnancy. It belongs to the FDA pregnancy category D, which means it may cause harm to the developing fetus. If you become pregnant while taking Losartan, contact your healthcare provider immediately to discuss alternative treatments.

Is this medication safe to take when breastfeeding?

The safety of Losartan use during breastfeeding is not well-established. Small amounts of the drug may be present in breast milk, and there is potential for adverse effects on the nursing infant. It is recommended to consult your healthcare provider to discuss the risks and benefits of using Losartan while breastfeeding.

Estimate price of a 30-day supply of the medication:

The price of a 30-day supply of Losartan can vary depending on the dosage, pharmacy, and region. Assuming the patient does not have insurance and is utilizing a GoodRx coupon, the estimated cost for a 30-day supply of Losartan can range from $10 to $20. It is important to compare prices from different pharmacies to find the best deal.

Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice.