Lostaar

Uses
Lostaar (Losartan) is used for three main reasons, which are control of hypertension (high blood pressure), preventing kidney disease in diabetic patients and reducing the risk of a stroke in patients with left ventricular hypertrophy. This drug is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist, and treatment with this drug causes the blood to flow in a smooth manner, while also increasing the efficiency of the heart, thereby resulting in a drop in blood pressure.

Dosage and Administration
Prior to beginning treatment with Lostaar (Losartan) tablets, a thorough medical assessment will be carried out by your doctor, to determine the proper dosage and to decide whether or not this drug is suitable for you. Hypertension and diabetic nephropathy are usually treated with an initial dose of 50mg, taken orally once per day. During the course of treatment, the prescribing doctor will evaluate the patient's response to treatment and adjust the dosage accordingly. A maintenance dose of 25mg to 100mg may then be prescribed. This maintenance dose may be taken in 1 to 2 divided doses.

Side effects
As with other medications, Lostaar (Losartan) has been known to cause side effects ranging from mild to serious. You can ask your doctor for more details. Some possible reactions are listed here:

• Indigestion
• Migraine
• Loss of balance
• Pain in the knee, leg or back
• A decrease in your sense of touch

You should inform your doctor if any symptoms of an adverse reaction are noticed, especially if these symptoms persist or become serious. In addition to the reactions listed above, patients who take this drug may also experience severe reactions. Immediate medical attention is needed if you notice chest pain, a burning sensation when urinating or signs of high blood potassium levels. This list is not complete, and patients may notice other reactions which have not been listed here.

Precautions
Never take this drug during pregnancy. It may cause severe, and potentially fatal harm to the unborn child. Discuss the use of effective contraception with your doctor prior to commencement of treatment.

Patients should note that it often takes 3 to 6 weeks of taking this medicine before blood pressure can be effectively controlled. See your doctor if no improvement is noticed after 3 weeks.

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 Lostaar (Losartan) 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.