Losartan refers to a class of medications called angiotensin II receptor antagonists or blockers, often abbreviated as ARBs.
Uses of Losartan
They are generally used to prevent strokes and treat hypertension, diabetic nephropathy, and heart attacks. They are prescribed to diabetic patients to protect their kidneys. They are also used to treat heart failure and as a prophylactic measure against stroke.
How does losartan work?
The action of losartan and other drugs in that class blocks the receptors that act on angiotensin II. A potent vasoconstrictor, or, to put it another way, a hormone produced by the body, angiotensin II causes the blood vessels to constrict. Blood flow is more difficult when blood vessels are constricted, increasing blood pressure and blocking the receptors on which angiotensin II operates. It causes blood vessels to relax and, as a result, less resistance to blood flow, resulting in a decrease in blood pressure. Angiotensin II now increases the adrenal gland’s production of aldosterone.
Aldosterone increases the amount of salt and water the kidneys reabsorb into the bloodstream, which increases blood volume and ultimately raises blood pressure. Losartan lowers aldosterone secretion and thus lowers blood pressure by preventing the effects of angiotensin II.
How to take losartan?
Before taking this medication, be sure to follow all of your doctor’s recommendations. It will help if you read the leaflet with instructions inside the pharmaceutical package. You will better understand the drug’s effects and the dos and don’ts of utilizing it. Making a routine for taking this medication is highly encouraged because it will assist your body respond to it effectively and favorably. Before beginning, have a whole conversation with your doctor about your medical history and whatever other medications you are taking because taking multiple drugs at once can result in interactions that are dangerous to one’s health. Discuss with your physician know if you are expecting or nursing a child. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any queries.
As told by your doctor, take this medication by mouth once a day with or without a meal. Your medical condition and treatment response will suggest the dosage.
Shake the bottle of this medication thoroughly before each dose if you’re using the liquid form. Utilize a specific measuring spoon to precisely measure the dosage. Avoid using a regular spoon because you cannot get the proper dosage.
To reap the most significant benefits from this drug, take it frequently. Take it at the same time daily to aid in memory. Don’t skip the medication, even if you feel OK. Most persons with high blood pressure don’t experience any health issues.
Dosage
Depending on what is being treated and the individual, the dose might range from 25 milligrams to 100 milligrams per day. Although it is commonly used once a day at a dose of 50 milligrams, occasionally, it may be administered twice daily if doing so results in better coverage.
Losartan is typically well tolerated in terms of adverse effects, generally minor. A class of drugs called ace inhibitors, well-known as lisinopril, losartan, and other ARBs, provide a significant advantage. I believe lisinopril is the most famous drug in this class.
The good news is that losartan is linked to a very low incidence of the two significant adverse effects of dry cough and angioedema.
Side effects
Losartan is an excellent alternative for those who have experienced these side effects. Some reported side effects of taking its inhibitors, like lisinopril, include abdominal pain, back pain, and muscle cramps. Losartan has the potential to raise your potassium levels; therefore, your doctor will likely check those levels because a rise in potassium levels can occasionally cause muscle cramping. Other side effects of losartan include dizziness, insomnia, headaches, and fatigue. Losartan is typically quite well tolerated. However, this list is undoubtedly incomplete.
The total rate of adverse reactions in one trial, which covered roughly 4,000 patients taking losartan for periods longer than six to twelve months, did not reveal any appreciable changes in the adverse experience profile for losartan users. However, just like any other blood pressure medication or prescription, it would be a good idea to discuss with your physician if you suffer from any adverse side effects. Do not abruptly stop taking it or begin taking it without consulting your doctor first.
Prevention
Following are precautions for taking this medication:
- Be careful not to overuse salt. Avoid foods high in potassium, such as potatoes, etc. Before using this medication, be careful to get a list of foods to consume and avoid from your doctor.
- Steer clear of alcohol and drugs because drinking can raise the risk of adverse consequences.
- To achieve the best outcomes, adopt a healthy lifestyle. To have healthy blood pressure, eat a balanced diet and exercise daily.
- If you overdose, see your doctor immediately since an overdose can result in breathing problems.
- Be sure to monitor your development by having yourself tested every few months. Additionally, your doctor might advise testing.
- Continue keeping tabs on your blood pressure. Maintaining a BP device on hand at your house is recommended. Please note your readings, and when you see your doctor, be sure to show him.
- Avoid using painkillers and other medications rich in potassium if you are taking losartan because of the potential for overreaction induced by the body’s already high potassium levels brought on by losartan. Such interactions may result in increased blood pressure, renal failure, etc.
- Pregnant people or people breastfeeding are advised to avoid this medication.
References
- https://www.drugs.com/cozaar.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6616/losartan-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/losartan.html
- https://www.drugs.com/losartan.html
