Losartan
Cozaar, Loratan, Losar, Angiotan, Lopran, Losartan-Sandoz, Zartan, Losar-H, Loratan-H
Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB)
Losartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), also called an angiotensin receptor antagonist. It is widely used to treat hypertension, heart failure, and diabetic kidney disease. It works by blocking the effects of angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor, leading to vasodilation, reduced blood pressure, and kidney protection. Losartan was the first ARB developed, and it remains one of the most commonly prescribed antihypertensives globally.
Hypertension (primary indication) Heart failure (when ACE inhibitors not tolerated) Diabetic nephropathy (type 2 diabetes with proteinuria) Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) Chronic kidney disease (CKD) — for renal protection Post-MI cardiac remodeling prevention (off-label)
Hypersensitivity to losartan or any ARB Pregnancy (especially 2nd and 3rd trimester – fetal toxicity) Severe renal artery stenosis (bilateral or single kidney) Severe hepatic impairment Hyperkalemia (K⁺ > 5.5 mmol/L)
Condition ------- Initial Dose ------- Maintenance Dose ------- Max Dose Hypertension ------- 50 mg once daily ------- 25–100 mg/day (1–2 doses) ------- 100 mg/day Heart Failure ------- 12.5–25 mg once daily ------- Titrate up to 50 mg/day ------- 100 mg/day Diabetic Nephropathy ------- 50 mg once daily ------- May increase to 100 mg/day ------- 100 mg/day
Hypertension (primary indication) Heart failure (when ACE inhibitors not tolerated) Diabetic nephropathy (type 2 diabetes with proteinuria) Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) Chronic kidney disease (CKD) — for renal protection Post-MI cardiac remodeling prevention (off-label)
Dizziness or lightheadedness Fatigue Headache Hypotension (especially after first dose) Hyperkalemia (↑ potassium) Back pain or muscle cramps Nasal congestion Angioedema (rare, less than ACE inhibitors) Renal impairment (especially with renal artery stenosis) Hypotension in volume-depleted patients Elevated liver enzymes Anaphylaxis (very rare)
Contraindicated
Contraindicated
Monitor renal function and serum potassium regularly. Use with caution in volume- or salt-depleted patients (risk of hypotension). Avoid NSAIDs concurrently (may reduce effect and harm kidneys). Adjust dose in hepatic impairment (metabolized in liver). Combine cautiously with diuretics or other antihypertensives.
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