Description
Losartan potassium is an angiotensin II receptor blocker. It blocks the action of a hormone that narrows blood vessels, so the vessels relax and blood pressure falls. It is licensed for high blood pressure, for kidney disease in adults with type 2 diabetes and protein in the urine, and to reduce the risk of stroke in people with high blood pressure and thickening of the heart muscle.
The tablet is taken once daily, with or without food, at about the same time each day. Unlike ACE inhibitors, this class does not usually cause a dry cough. Dizziness, headache and tiredness are recognised effects, particularly when you first start. Your prescriber will check your kidney function and blood salts with a blood test, and will ask about potassium supplements and salt substitutes, because losartan can raise potassium. This medicine must not be taken in pregnancy.
- Angiotensin II receptor blocker for high blood pressure
- Also used in diabetic kidney disease and to reduce stroke risk in some people
- Available in 12.5mg, 25mg, 50mg and 100mg tablets, taken once daily
- This class does not usually cause the dry cough seen with ACE inhibitors
- Can raise blood potassium; blood tests check this and kidney function
- Not for use in pregnancy; tell your prescriber if you may be pregnant
