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Losartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) commonly prescribed for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure) and for the protection of the kidneys in patients with type 2 diabetes and hypertension. It works by selectively blocking the action of angiotensin II, a hormone that causes blood vessels to constrict, which leads to vasodilation, reduced blood pressure, and decreased workload on the heart.
Clinical studies have demonstrated that losartan is effective in reducing both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, leading to significant improvements in cardiovascular health. It has
been shown to lower blood pressure effectively, with consistent control throughout the day, helping to reduce the risk of complications associated with untreated hypertension such as stroke and myocardial infarction.
Additionally, losartan has been found to offer renal protective benefits, particularly in patients with type 2 diabetes and hypertension, by slowing the progression of kidney disease. This effect is attributed to its ability to reduce intraglomerular pressure.
While losartan is generally well tolerated, common side effects can include dizziness, headache, fatigue, and hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels). Serious side effects are rare but may include angioedema (swelling of deeper layers of the skin) and hypotension (abnormally low blood pressure). Regular monitoring of blood pressure and renal function is crucial, especially during the initial stages of therapy or upon dose adjustments.
Overall, losartan is an effective antihypertensive medication that not only lowers blood pressure but also provides renal protection, improving overall health outcomes for patients with hypertension and related conditions. Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers are essential for assessing treatment efficacy, managing side effects, and ensuring optimal blood pressure control.
Losartan is commonly prescribed for the treatment of hypertension and for the protection of the kidneys in patients with diabetes. The typical starting dosage for adults is 50 mg taken orally once daily. Depending on the individual's blood pressure response and tolerability, the dose may be adjusted, with a maximum dosage often reaching 100 mg per day.
Losartan can be taken with or without food, offering flexibility for patients regarding meal timing. It is important to take the medication at the same time each day to maintain stable levels in the bloodstream. Patients should swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water and should not crush or chew them.
If you miss a dose of losartan and remember it within a few hours of the scheduled time, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular dosing schedule; do not take two doses at the same time to make up for the missed one.
To ensure the best therapeutic outcome, it is essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosage and to attend regular follow-up appointments for monitoring blood pressure and renal function. If you have any questions or concerns about missed doses or how to take losartan, consult your healthcare provider for further guidance.
Always use this medication exactly as your clinician has told you. Check with our clinical team or your GP or pharmacist if you are not sure.
Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Just because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the side effects associated with losartan, categorized into common, less common, rare, and important considerations:
1. Fatigue: Patients may experience a general sense of tiredness or a lack of energy while taking losarton.
2. Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Some individuals may feel dizzy, especially when moving from a sitting or lying position to standing (orthostatic hypotension).
3. Headache:: Mild to moderate headaches are frequently reported by patients on losartan.
4. Cold Extremities: Patients may notice cold hands and feet due to reduced peripheral circulation.
5. Nausea: Gastrointestinal disturbances, including diarrhea or upset stomach, can occasionally be experienced.
1. Depression: Some patients have reported feelings of depression or mood changes while on losarton treatment.
2. Hyperkalemia: Elevated potassium levels in the blood may occur, which can lead to serious cardiac issues if not monitored.
3. Hypotension: Abnormally low blood pressure can occur, particularly after the initial dose or when dosage adjustments are made.
4. Back Pain: Some individuals may report discomfort or pain in the back.
1. Angioedema: Rarely, losartan can cause swelling of the deeper layers of the skin, particularly in the face, lips, tongue, or throat, which may lead to difficulty breathing.
2. Liver Dysfunction: Elevated liver enzymes or liver function abnormalities may be observed in some patients, indicating possible liver damage.
3. Kidney Dysfunction: Impaired renal function can occur, particularly in patients with pre-existing kidney conditions or dehydration.
4. Rash: Some patients may develop a skin rash or prolonged dermatitis as a reaction to the medication.
1. Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood pressure, kidney function, and potassium levels is essential, especially during the initiation of therapy or after any dose adjustments.
2. Pregnancy Considerations: Losartan is contraindicated during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, due to the risk of fetal harm or death.
3. Discontinuation: If angioedema occurs, losartan should be discontinued immediately, and emergency medical attention should be sought.
4. Drug Interactions: Patients should inform their healthcare providers about all medications they are taking, especially diuretics, NSAIDs, and potassium supplements, as these can increase the risk of side effects.
For full information on side effects and correct use, see the patient information leaflet. If any side effects concern you, or you are experiencing any of the side effects mentioned in the patient information leaflet whilst taking this medication, please contact our clinical team or speak to your GP.
1. Renal Impairment: Caution is advised when prescribing losartan to patients with renal impairment, as it may affect kidney function. Regular monitoring of renal function and serum electrolytes, particularly potassium levels, is recommended.
2. Electrolyte Imbalances: Losartan has the potential to cause hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels), particularly in patients with renal impairment or those who are on potassium-sparing diuretics or potassium supplements. Serum potassium should be monitored regularly.
3. Historical Angioedema: Patients with a history of angioedema related to previous ACE inhibitor therapy should use losartan with caution, as there is a potential risk of recurrence.
4. Hypotension: Losartan can cause significant drops in blood pressure, especially in individuals who are volume-depleted or who have taken diuretics. Patients should be monitored closely for hypotension when starting therapy or adjusting the dose.
5. Pregnancy: Losartan is contraindicated during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, due to the risk of fetal harm. Women of childbearing potential should be counseled on the importance of using effective contraception while on this medication.
1. Severe Hypotension: There is a risk of severe hypotension, particularly for patients who are volume-depleted, such as those on diuretics, or those undergoing surgery. Blood pressure should be monitored carefully, especially when initiating treatment.
2. Drug Interactions: Losartan may interact with other medications, including NSAIDs which can reduce its antihypertensive effect and increase the risk of renal impairment, as well as other antihypertensive agents. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking.
3. Liver and Kidney Function: Caution is advised in patients with liver and/or kidney impairment,
as losartan and its active metabolite are primarily eliminated via the liver. Dose adjustments may be needed in these populations.
4. Discontinuation and Tapering: Although not as critical as with some other antihypertensive medications, sudden discontinuation of losartan may lead to rebound hypertension. It is advisable to taper the dose under the supervision of a healthcare provider if discontinuation is necessary.
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to this medication. These include:
It is important that you let us know which prescription, over-the-counter medicines and recreational drugs you are currently taking. You must also tell us about any other medical conditions that you currently have (or had in the past). This will help us ensure the prescribed medication is safe and appropriate for you to take.
For full information on warnings, medication interactions and contraindications, refer to the Patient Information Leaflet. Please read all packaging and the Patient Information Leaflet before taking any new medicine and inform our clinical team or your GP of medicines you are taking or intend to take.
