Losartan
Information about Losartan
Losartan uses
Losartan is used in the treatment of Hypertension (high blood pressure), Heart failure and prevention of heart attack and stroke.
How losartan works
Losartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB). It relaxes the blood vessel by blocking the action of a chemical that usually makes blood vessels tighter. This lowers the blood pressure, allowing the blood to flow more smoothly to different organs and the heart to pump more efficiently.
Common side effects of losartan
Dizziness, Back pain, Upper respiratory tract infection, Nasal congestion (stuffy nose), Cough, Headache, Edema (swelling), Red spots or bumps, Hypersensitivity, Paresthesia (tingling or pricking sensation), Angioedema (swelling of deeper layers of skin), Hepatitis (viral infection of liver)
Available Medicine for Losartan
Expert advice for Losartan
- Take it at the same time every day to help you remember to take it.
- It can make you feel dizzy for the first few days. Rise slowly if you have been sitting or lying down for a long time.
- Your doctor may get regular tests done to monitor the level of urea, creatinine, and potassium in your blood.
- Avoid taking anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen along with this medicine without consulting your doctor.
- Do not take Losartan if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Do not stop taking it suddenly without talking to your doctor.
Frequently asked questions for Losartan
Losartan
Q. Can I feel dizzy after taking Losartan?
Yes, the use of Losartan can make you feel dizzy. This may occur when you suddenly get up from a lying or sitting position. To lower the chance of feeling dizzy or passing out, rise slowly if you have been sitting or lying down.
Q. Is Losartan a good blood pressure medicine?
Losartan is used by many people for reducing blood pressure levels. This medicine generally has very few side effects. In addition to lowering blood pressure, it also protects kidney function in high blood pressure patients having diabetes and impaired kidney function (diabetic nephropathy). It is also used to treat chronic heart failure when treatment with other medicines fails to prove effective. It also helps to decrease the risk of stroke in patients who are hypertensive and have thicker left ventricle (heart chamber).
Q. What are some of the lifestyle changes I should make while using Losartan?
Lifestyle changes play a major role in keeping you healthy if you are taking Losartan. Avoid taking excess salt in your diet and find ways to reduce or manage stress in your life. Practice yoga or meditation or take up a hobby. Ensure that you have a sound sleep every night as this also helps to reduce stress levels and helps to keep your blood pressure normal. Stop smoking and alcohol consumption as this helps in lowering your blood pressure and preventing heart problems. Exercise regularly and take a balanced diet that includes whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables, and fat-free products. Consult your doctor if you need any further guidance to get the maximum benefit of Losartan and to keep yourself healthy.