Losartan

Generic Name : Losartan

TradeName : Cozaar, repace

Overview : Losartan is used in patients to decrease the risk of stroke and used in treatment of kidney problems caused by diabetes (diabetic nephropathy).

Why it is prescribed (Indications) : Losartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) which works by relaxing blood vessels.

When it is not to be taken (Contraindications) : If you are • you are allergic to any ingredient in Losartan • you are in your second or third trimester of pregnancy • the patient is a child with severe kidney problems

When it is to be taken : Losartan is used to slow long-term kidney damage in people with type 2 diabetes who also have high blood pressure.

How it should be taken : Take Losartan orally with or without food. • Losartan should be taken on a regular schedule to get the most benefit from it. • Don’t stop losartan even if you feel well Continue to take it.

Special Instruction :
• Losartan can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting hence use it with caution. • Losartan can cause a serious side effect called angioedema. Consult your doctor at once if you develop swelling of the hands, face, lips, eyes throat, or tongue; • Dehydration, excessive sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea may increase the risk of low blood pressure. Consult your physician at once if any of these occur. • Check with your doctor before you use a salt substitute or a product that has potassium in it. • Inform your doctor or dentist that you take Losartan before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.

Side Effects :
Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as: • feeling like you might pass out; • painful or difficult urination; • chest pain; • numbness or tingly feeling; • pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding; • swelling in your hands or feet; or • slow heart rate, weak pulse, tingly feeling. Less serious side effects may include: • runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough; • muscle, leg, or back pain; • stomach pain, diarrhea; • headache, dizziness; • tired feeling; or • sleep problems (insomnia).

Other Precautions :
• Inform your doctor or dentist that you take Losartan before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery. • If you have hypertension, do not use nonprescription products that contain stimulants. • Diabetes patients- Losartan may affect your blood sugar. Check blood sugar levels at regular interval. • Losartan should not be used in CHILDREN younger than 6 years old; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed. • PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: Losartan may cause birth defects or fetal death if you take it while you are pregnant
.
Drug Interactions :
Before taking losartan, tell your doctor if you are using any of the following drugs: • a diuretic; • lithium; • celecoxib; or • aspirin or other NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen, diclofenac, etodolac , indomethacin , nabumetone , naproxen , meloxicam,piroxicam , and others.

Storage Conditions :
Store tablets at controlled room temperature (59° to 86°F). Protect from light. Store suspension in refrigerator (36° to 46°F) for up to 4 wk. Discard any unused suspension after 4 weeks of use.