Brand name:
Cozaar
Pronounced: CO-zahr
Generic name: Losartan potassium
Why is this drug
prescribed?
Cozaar is used in the treatment of
high blood pressure. It is effective when used alone or with other high
blood pressure medications, such as diuretics that help the body get rid
of water.
Cozaar is the first of a new class
of blood pressure medications called angiotensin II receptor antagonists.
Cozaar works, in part, by preventing the hormone angiotensin II from constricting
the blood vessels, which tends to raise blood pressure.
Most important fact about
this drug
You must take Cozaar regularly for
it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be
several weeks before you get the full benefit of Cozaar, and you must
continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Cozaar does not cure
high blood pressure; it merely keeps it under control.
How should you take
this medication?
Cozaar can be taken with or without
food.
Take it at the same time each day.
For example, if you take the medication every morning before or after
breakfast, you will establish a regular routine and be less likely to
forget your dose.
--If you miss a dose...
Take it as soon as possible. If it
is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to
your regular schedule.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature. Keep in
a tightly closed container, away from light.
What side effects
may occur?
Side effects cannot be anticipated.
If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible.
Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking
Cozaar.
- More common side effects may include:
Cough, dizziness, upper respiratory infection
- Less common and rare side effects may include:
Allergic reactions, back and leg pain, diarrhea, indigestion, insomnia,
muscle cramps or pain, nasal congestion, sinus problems, swelling
of face, lips, throat, and tongue
Why should this drug
not be prescribed?
Do not take Cozaar when you are pregnant.
Avoid it if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it.
Special warnings about
this medication
Cozaar can cause low blood pressure,
especially if you are also taking a diuretic. You may feel light-headed
or faint, especially during the first few days of therapy. If these symptoms
occur, contact your doctor. Your dosage may need to be adjusted or discontinued.
Be sure you know how you react to Cozaar before you drive or operate machinery.
Excessive sweating, dehydration,
severe diarrhea, or vomiting could make you lose too much water, causing
a severe drop in blood pressure. Call your doctor if you experience any
of these symptoms. Be sure to tell your doctor about any medical conditions
you have, especially liver or kidney disease.
Cozaar tends to increase the level
of potassium in the blood. Check with your doctor before taking potassium
supplements or using a salt substitute.
Possible food and
drug interactions when taking this medication
If Cozaar is taken with certain other
drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered.
It is especially important to check with your doctor before taking Cozaar
with the following:
Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
Troleandomycin (Tao)
Special information
if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Drugs such as Cozaar can cause injury
or even death to the unborn child when used in the second or third trimester
of pregnancy. Stop taking Cozaar as soon as you know you are pregnant.
If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, tell your doctor before
taking Cozaar. Cozaar may appear in breast milk and could affect the nursing
infant. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may
advise you to stop breastfeeding while you are taking Cozaar.
Recommended dosage
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ADULTS
The
usual starting dose is 50 milligrams once daily. However, Cozaar can also
be taken twice daily, with total daily doses ranging from 25 milligrams
to 100 milligrams. If your blood pressure does not respond, your doctor
may increase your dose or add a low-dose diuretic to your regimen.
People taking diuretics and people
with liver problems
The usual starting dose is 25 milligrams
daily. Your doctor may adjust your dosage according to your response. CHILDREN
The safety and effectiveness
of Cozaar in children have not been studied.
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can
have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention
immediately. Information concerning Cozaar overdosage is limited. However,
hypotension (low blood pressure) and abnormally rapid or slow heartbeat
may be signs of an overdose.
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