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Losartan - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Information about Losartan

Generic Name : Losartan
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Losartan are provided here.

Pronunciation : loe-SAR-tan

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Losartan, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.
You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.


ICD Code : Y52.5 Therapeutic Classification : Angiotensin Receptor Blockers

Trade Names/Brand Names of Losartan

India :

International :


Cozaar

Why is Losartan Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), prescribed for high blood pressure. It is also used for prevention of stroke, and diabetic nephropathy.

When should Losartan not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with severe kidney problem, during third trimester of pregnancy, and hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Losartan?

Adult: PO- The recommended dose is 50 mg once daily. Max: 100 mg/day.

How should Losartan be taken?

It comes as a tablet to take by mouth, with or without food.

What are the warnings and precautions for Losartan?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of blood vessel problems, poor blood circulation, fluid retention, heart, liver or kidney problems, diabetes, stroke, recent heart attack, electrolyte problem, any allergy, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• It may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.

• Avoid alcohol consumption.

• Patient may develop with increased risk of angioedema with swelling of the hands, face, lips, eyes throat, or tongue; difficulty in swallowing or breathing; or hoarseness. If it is so consult with your doctor.

• It should not be used in children less than 6 years old.

• Monitor blood pressure, blood electrolyte levels, and heart, kidney, or liver function regularly while taking this medication.

What are the side effects of Losartan?

Most Frequent - Swelling, abdominal pain, chest pain, nausea, headache, inflammation of pharynx, diarrhea, indigestion, muscle pain, sleeplessness, cough and sinus disorder.
Body as a Whole - Facial swelling, fever and fainting.
Heart - Chest pain, low blood pressure, heart attack, fast heart rate and slow heart rate.
Gastrointestinal - Loss of appetite, constipation, tooth pain, dry mouth, flatulence, stomach inflammation and vomiting.
Blood - Anemia.
Metabolic - Gout.
Musculoskeletal - Arm pain, hip pain, joint swelling, knee pain, shoulder pain, stiffness, joint pain, joint inflammation, muscle weakness/cramp and back pain.
Central Nervous System - Anxiety, incoordination, confusion, depression, dream abnormality, sensory loss, decreased sexual activity, memory loss, migraine, nervousness, tingling, numbness, weakness, burning pain , sleep disorder, drowsiness, tremor and unsteadiness.
Respiratory - Difficulty in breathing, lung inflammation, nose bleed, nose inflammation, respiratory congestion and upper respiratory tract infection.
Skin - Hair loss, skin inflammation, dry skin, redness, flushing, sensitivity to light, itching, rash, sweating and hives.
Eye and ENT - Blurred vision, burning/stinging in the eye, taste perversion, ringing in the ear and decrease in vision.
Genitourinary - Impotence, nighttime urination, urinary frequency and urinary tract infection.

What are the other precautions for Losartan?

Avoid excess dosage.

What are the storage conditions for Losartan?

Store it at controlled room temperature (25°to 30°C). Protect from light. Store the suspension in refrigerator for up to 4 weeks. Discard any unused suspension after 4 weeks of use.

Losartan: Drug to Treat High Blood Pressure and to Reduce The Stroke Risk

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