Losartan

Uses
Losartan (Losartan Potassium) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker indicated for the treatment of high blood pressure which works by widening the blood vessels so as to allow for the easier flow of blood. This in turn can bring about an overall reduction in high blood pressure, a condition which generally occurs as a result of tightening of the blood vessels. As it blocks angiotensin II (the substance responsible for narrowing the blood vessels) from acting on its receptors in the vascular smooth muscle and elsewhere in the body, this medicine is able to trigger a widening of the blood vessels and a reduction in blood pressure. Another use for this medicine is treating diabetic nephropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes. Doctors may also use it to treat patients suffering from other conditions not listed here.

Dosage and Administration
Losartan (Losartan Potassium) tablets are taken by mouth. The tablets can be taken either alongside food or else without food. In some cases, your doctor may direct you to take it alongside other antihypertensive medications. The dosage for hypertension can vary, however doctors generally direct the majority of patients to begin treatment with 50mg, taken once per day. This may be adjusted if the doctor deems it necessary. Patients with heart failure may be instructed by their doctor to take 12.5mg once per day as a starting dosage, which the doctor may adjust to 25mg per day after 1 week, before it is adjusted to the maintenance dosage of 50mg per day a week later. However, any adjustments will be the responsibility of the doctor in charge of treatment. Never exceed the dosage that your doctor instructs you to take.

Side effects
Patients undergoing treatment with Losartan (Losartan Potassium) may suffer from side effects, which could include the following:

• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Sore feeling in the legs
• Cramping of the muscles
• Difficulty sleeping properly

Other reactions not listed above are also possible. You must immediately see the doctor if you suffer from soreness when urinating, poor appetite, severe thirst, inflammation of the limbs, a confused feeling or any other severe adverse events which are not listed here.

Precautions
Your doctor may advise you not to drink alcohol, due to it increasing the risk of side effects and further lowering your blood pressure.

Patients treating high blood pressure should note that it could take from 3 to 6 weeks before this medicine becomes fully effective.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Losartan (Losartan Potassium) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.