Uses of Losartan

Losartan is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults and children & adolescents (aged 6-18 years). It is also used to protect kidney in hypertensive type 2 diabetic patients and is also indicated for use in patients with chronic heart failure when ACE (angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors) medicines becomes ineffective to treat the disease. Losartan is also used to decrease the risk of stroke in patients with high blood pressure and thickening of left ventricle. 

Therapeutic Category

Losartan: Antihypertensive Agents

How Losartan works

Losartan blocks the effects of Angiotensin II (substance produced in your body which causes narrowing of blood vessels), which leads to relaxation of blood vessels resulting in low blood pressure in affected individuals.

Common side effects of Losartan

• Dizziness, general weakness, tiredness
• Low blood pressure orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure that occurs when rising from a lying/sitting position)
• Signs of low blood sugar such as fast heartbeat, shaking, sweating and/or hunger
• Signs of changes in kidney function (including kidney failure) such as decreased urine output, oedema, shortness of breath
• Anaemia

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor if you experience:

• Signs of severe allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, mouth/throat that may cause difficulty in swallowing or breathing

Health Tips for Losartan

• Drink an adequate amount of water each day to maintain proper hydration. This can help support overall cardiovascular health
• Do not take alcohol consumption, it can raise blood pressure and interfere with the effectiveness of blood pressure medications
• Losartan is not recommended for use in pregnant and breast feeding women