Brand name:
Losacar - LOSACAR (Cozaar, Losartan)
Pronounced: Lo-sa-ahr
Generic name: Losartan potassium
Why is Losacar prescribed?

Losacar 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.

Losacar is also used to slow the progress of kidney disease caused by type 2 diabetes (the type of diabetes that doesn't require insulin shots). It is the first of a new class of blood pressure medications called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. Losacar works, in part, by preventing the hormone angiotensin II from constricting the blood vessels, which tends to raise blood pressure.
Most important fact about Losacar

You must take Losacar regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Losacar, and you must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Losacar does not cure high blood pressure; it merely keeps it under control.
How should you take Losacar?

Losacar 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.

Why should Losacar not be prescribed?

Do not take Losacar when you are pregnant. Avoid it if you have ever h

ad an allergic reaction to it.
Special warnings about Losacar

Losacar 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 Losacar 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 and congestive heart failure. In very rare cases, Losacar has triggered fatal kidney problems in people with heart failure.

Losacar 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 Losacar

If Losacar 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 Losacar with the following:

Diuretics that leave potassium in the body, such as Aldactone, triamterene, and amiloride
Indomethacin (Indocin)
Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
Troleandomycin (Tao)
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Drugs such as Losacar can cause injury or even death to the unborn child when used in the second or third trimester of pregnancy. Stop taking Losacar as soon as you know you are pregnant. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, tell your doctor before taking Losacar. Losacar may appear in breast milk and could affect the nursing infant. If Losacar is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop breastfeeding while you are taking Losacar.
Recommended dosage for Losacar

ADULTS Overdosage

If you miss a dose LOSACAR (Cozaar, Losartan)

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 LOSACAR (Cozaar, Losartan)

Store at room temperature. Keep in a tightly closed container, away from light.
LOSACAR (Cozaar, Losartan) side effects

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 Losacar.

* Side effects may include:
Cough, dizziness, upper respiratory infection

Other side effects, such as weakness and chest pain, have been reported by people taking Losacar for diabetic kidney disease. Severe allergic reactions, including swelling of the face and throat, are also a possibility.

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Information concerning Losacar overdosage is limited. However, hypotension (low blood pressure) and abnormally rapid or slow heartbeat may be signs of an overdose.

If you miss a dose LOSACAR (Cozaar, Losartan)

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 LOSACAR

Store at room temperature. Keep in a tightly closed container, away from light.
LOSACAR (Cozaar, Losartan) side effects

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 Losacar.

* Side effects may include:
Cough, dizziness, upper respiratory infection

Other side effects, such as weakness and chest pain, have been reported by people taking Losacar for diabetic kidney disease. Severe allergic reactions, including swelling of the face and throat, are also a possibility.