Losartan Generic (Cozaar) US$ 0.30 ea

What is the most important information I should know about Losartan?

• Do not take Losartan if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. When used during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, Losartan can cause injury and even death of the developing fetus. Notify your doctor immediately if you think you might be pregnant.
• Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Losartan may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities. Also use caution when rising from a sitting or lying position.
• Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may further lower blood pressure and increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking Losartan.

What is Losartan?

• Losartan is in a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. Losartan prevents the constriction (narrowing) of blood vessels (veins and arteries).
• Losartan is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and to reduce the risk of stroke.
• Losartan may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Losartan?

• Before taking Losartan, tell your doctor if you
  • have kidney disease;
  • have liver disease;
  • are on a salt-restricted diet or have high levels of potassium in the blood; or
  • are taking a potassium supplement (e.g., K-Dur, Klor-Con, others), or a potassium-sparing diuretic such as amiloride (Midamor), triamterene (Dyrenium, Dyazide, Maxzide), or spironolactone (Aldactone).
• You may not be able to take Losartan, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
• Losartan is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that it is known to be harmful to an unborn baby. When used during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, Losartan can cause injury and even death of the developing fetus. Do not take Losartan if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
• It is not known whether Losartan passes into breast milk. Do not take Losartan without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Losartan?

• Take Losartan exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
• Take each dose with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.
• Losartan can be taken with or without food.
• It is important to take Losartan regularly to get the most benefit.
• Your doctor may want you to have blood pressure checks, blood tests, or other medical evaluations during treatment with Losartan to monitor progress and side effects.
• Do not stop taking Losartan without first talking to your doctor. If you stop taking the medication, your condition could become much worse.
• Store Losartan at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

• Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
• Symptoms of a Losartan overdose are not well known but might include dizziness, weakness, fainting, and fatigue.

What should I avoid while taking Losartan?

• Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Losartan may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities. Also use caution when rising from a sitting or lying position.
• Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may further lower blood pressure and increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking Losartan.
• Do not use salt substitutes or take potassium supplements without first talking to your doctor. Losartan can affect potassium levels in the body.

What are the possible side effects of Losartan?

• If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Losartan and contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical treatment.
  • an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); or
  • little or no urine.
• Other side effects are less serious. Continue to take Losartan and talk to your doctor if you experience
  • diarrhea or upset stomach,
  • muscle pain or cramps,
  • dizziness, or
  • insomnia.
• Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Losartan?

• Before taking Losartan, tell your doctor if you
  • take a potassium supplement such as K-Dur, Klor-Con, and others;
  • take a potassium-sparing diuretic (water pill) such as amiloride (Midamor), spironolactone (Aldactone), or triamterene (Dyrenium, Dyazide, Maxzide); or
  • use a salt substitute.
• Losartan can affect potassium levels in the body. You may not be able to take Losartan, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.
• Tell your doctor about any other medicines you take to treat high blood pressure or other heart conditions. Losartan may cause very low blood pressure if it is taken with other heart medications.
• Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Losartan or affect your condition. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.