Losartan: What it treats and why doctors prescribe it
Losartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) widely used to lower blood pressure and protect the kidneys in people with type 2 diabetes. It relaxes blood vessels, which lowers pressure and reduces strain on the heart. Many people also get losartan after a heart attack or when a doctor wants a steroid-free option to protect kidney function.
How to take losartan and dosage
Typical starting doses are 25–50 mg once daily, and many patients end up on 50–100 mg daily depending on response. Take it the same time each day. You can take losartan with or without food. If you feel dizzy after the first dose, sit or lie down until it passes — that’s often due to a sudden drop in blood pressure.
Missed a dose? Take it when you remember unless it’s close to your next dose. Don’t double up. Always follow your prescriber's instructions especially if you’re switching from another blood pressure medicine like an ACE inhibitor; your doctor will guide the timing to reduce side effect risk.
Side effects, interactions and monitoring
Common side effects include dizziness, tiredness, and sometimes a cough (less often than with ACE inhibitors). Less common but important issues are high potassium (hyperkalemia) and changes in kidney function. Angioedema (swelling of face or throat) is rare but serious — seek emergency care if you have any swelling or trouble breathing.
Drug interactions to watch: avoid combining losartan with potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics unless your doctor checks blood tests regularly. NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) can reduce losartan’s effect and may affect kidney function. Lithium levels can rise when taken with ARBs — your prescriber should monitor levels closely.
After starting or raising the dose, expect a lab check for blood pressure, serum potassium, and creatinine within 1–2 weeks. If you have significant kidney disease or take other blood pressure medicines, testing may be more frequent.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Don’t use losartan if you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant. ARBs can harm the fetus. Tell your doctor if you’re breastfeeding — they can recommend safer options.
Practical tips: keep a home BP log, take the pill at the same time every day, and avoid sudden large doses of salt substitutes (they’re often high in potassium). If you feel faint when standing, rise slowly and check your blood pressure. If side effects persist or you suspect drug interactions, call your healthcare provider — many issues resolve with simple dose changes or monitoring.
Losartan works well for many people and is available in generic form, which lowers cost. Talk openly with your clinician about goals: lower BP numbers, kidney protection, or tolerance to side effects. That helps pick the right dose or switch if needed.
Jul, 26 2023