Losartan

Losartan is a drug used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and has been examined for congestive heart failure and diabetic nephropathy. It is marketed as Cozaar® by Merck Sharp and Dohme and as Hyzaar® in combination with the thiazide diuretic hydrochlorothiazide (HCT). more...

Losartan was the first member of the recently introduced class of angiotensin II receptor antagonists. It blocks the action of the peptide hormone angiotensin on its receptors, decreasing arterial vascular tone and production of aldosterone.

Indications:

• Essential hypertension
• Hypertension with left ventricular hypertrophy for lowering the risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality
• Diabetes mellitus type 2 with proteinuria for slowing down the progression of kidney disease

Because of proven effectivity and lower costs, the first choice of drug for essential hypertension is a thiazide or beta blocker. The primary use of losartan is for proven stroke prevention. A clinical trial called LIFE demonstrated that losartan works significantly better than atenolol in preventing stroke (PMID 11937178).

Adverse effects

Adverse effects of Losartan include:

• Dizziness
• Hyperkalemia

Overdose

An overdose of losartan will result in hypotension and tachycardia.

Availability

In most countries, this medication is available only by prescription.

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