Losartan Potassium(low sar’ tan)
Cozaar
PREGNANCY CATEGORY D
(SECOND AND THIRD TRIMESTERS)
Drug Classes
Antihypertensive
ARB
Therapeutic Actions
Selectively blocks the binding of angiotensin II to specific tissue receptors found in the vascular smooth muscle and adrenal gland; this action blocks the vasoconstriction effect of the renin-angiotensin system as well as the release of aldosterone leading to decreased BP.
Indications
Treatment of hypertension, alone or in combination with other antihypertensives
Treatment of diabetic nephropathy with an elevated serum creatinine and proteinuria in patients with type 2 (non–insulin-dependent) diabetes and a history of hypertension
Reduction of the risk of stroke in patients with hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy
Contraindications and Cautions
Contraindicated with hypersensitivity to losartan, pregnancy (use during the second or third trimester can cause injury or even death to the fetus), lactation.
Use cautiously with hepatic or renal impairment, hypovolemia, history of angioedema.
Available Forms
Tablets—25, 50, 100 mg
Dosages
Adults
Hypertension: Starting dose of 50 mg PO daily. Patients on diuretics or hypovolemic patients may only require 25 mg daily. Dosage ranges from 25–100 mg daily PO given once or twice a day have been used.
Diabetic nephropathy: 50 mg/day PO once daily; may be increased to 100 mg/day once daily based on BP response.
Hypertension with left ventricular hypertrophy: 50 mg/day PO with 12.5 mg/day hydrochlorothiazide. May be increased to 100 mg/day PO with 25 mg/day hydrochlorothiazide if needed.
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