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ARB (Angiotensin Receptor Blocker)🔒 Prescription only

What Is Losartan (Cozaar) Used For?

Brand names: Cozaar

Losartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) used to treat high blood pressure and protect the kidneys, particularly in people with type 2 diabetes.

What is Losartan used for?

High blood pressure (hypertension)
Kidney protection in type 2 diabetes
Heart failure
Prevention of stroke in high-risk patients

How does Losartan work?

Losartan blocks angiotensin II receptors, preventing blood vessel narrowing. Unlike ACE inhibitors, it doesn't increase bradykinin levels, so it rarely causes a cough.

Dosage information

💊Available forms

25mg tablets
50mg tablets
100mg tablets

📏Typical dosage

Usually 50–100mg once daily. Can be taken with or without food.

⚠️ Dosage varies by individual. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions — never self-dose based on general information.

Side effects

Common

Dizziness
Fatigue
Low blood pressure when standing
Back pain
High potassium levels

⚠️ Serious — contact your doctor

Angioedema (rare — emergency)
Kidney function deterioration
Dangerously low blood pressure

Important warnings

DO NOT take if pregnant — same serious risks as lisinopril

Monitor kidney function and potassium levels

Avoid potassium supplements unless directed

Be cautious when standing up — can cause dizziness

Drug interactions

These substances may interact with Losartan. This is not a complete list — always tell your doctor and pharmacist ALL medications and supplements you take.

NSAIDsPotassium supplementsLithiumOther blood pressure medicationsAliskiren

Pregnancy & breastfeeding

🤰 CONTRAINDICATED in pregnancy — do not take

Always consult your doctor or obstetrician before taking any medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Frequently asked questions

What is losartan used for?

Losartan treats high blood pressure and protects kidneys in people with type 2 diabetes. It also reduces stroke risk in patients with high blood pressure and left ventricular hypertrophy.

What is the difference between losartan and lisinopril?

Both lower blood pressure similarly. The key practical difference: losartan rarely causes a cough, which is common with lisinopril (10–15% of users).

Does losartan cause a cough?

Losartan rarely causes a cough — a key advantage over ACE inhibitors like lisinopril. If you switched due to lisinopril cough, it should resolve within 1–4 weeks.

Can I take losartan with food?

Yes — losartan can be taken with or without food. Take it at the same time each day for consistency.

How long does losartan take to work?

Begins lowering blood pressure within 1 hour, peak effect at 6 hours. Maximum benefit usually seen after 3–6 weeks of regular use.

Related medications

💊LisinoprilACE Inhibitor 💊AmlodipineCalcium Channel Blocker 💊HydrochlorothiazideThiazide Diuretic (Water Pill)💊MetforminBiguanide

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This is an information resource — not medical advice.

🚨 If you are experiencing a medical emergency or think you may have taken too much of a medication, call emergency services (911 in the US) or go to your nearest emergency room immediately.

Information on this page is sourced from general pharmaceutical references and is provided for educational purposes only. Drug information may change — always verify with your pharmacist or prescriber. PillCodex.com is not affiliated with any pharmaceutical company.