ORIGINAL USES (ON-LABEL) High blood pressure, diabetic nephropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and a history of high blood pressure, reduction of stroke risk in patients with high blood pressure and cardiac impairment (left ventricular hypertrophy)
BRAND NAME Cozaar
DRUG CLASS
Blood pressure medication (angiotensin II receptor antagonist [ARB])
DESCRIPTION
Losartan works by blocking the substance that causes fluid retention and blood vessels to constrict.
POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS
Low blood pressure, sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing, fatigue, dizziness, fever, low blood sugar levels, diarrhea, urinary tract infection, anemia, weakness, back pain, cough, cellulitis, gastritis, weight gain, abdominal pain, nausea, knee pain, bronchitis, upper respiratory infection, flu-like syndrome.
CAUTIONS
Do not use with certain kidney problems (kidney artery stenosis).
Do not use in pregnant patients who are in the second or third trimester.
Lower doses needed in patients with liver impairment.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Potassium supplements, cimetidine, phenobarbital, and potassium-sparing diuretics, lithium, indomethacin, drugs that inhibit metabolism of specific liver enzymes (cytochrome P3A4- ketoconazole, etc.). Drugs that affect liver enzymes may interact with this drug.
PREGNANCY AND BREAST-FEEDING CAUTIONS
FDA Pregnancy Risk Category C for first trimester. FDA Pregnancy Risk Category D for second and third trimester. Excretion in breast milk unknown. No reports of the use of this drug during breast-feeding.
