Cozaar (losartan potassium) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) indicated for the treatment of hypertension in adults and pediatric patients 6 years of age and older, to lower blood pressure. It may be used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents. Cozaar is also indicated to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy, and for the treatment of diabetic nephropathy with an elevated serum creatinine and proteinuria in patients with type 2 diabetes and a history of hypertension. This medication works by blocking the action of certain natural substances that tighten the blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more smoothly and the heart to pump more efficiently.

Features

• Active ingredient: Losartan potassium
• Available in tablet form: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg strengths
• Once-daily dosing for most indications
• May be used as monotherapy or in combination with other antihypertensives
• Demonstrated efficacy in reducing stroke risk in hypertensive patients with left ventricular hypertrophy
• Shown to slow the progression of diabetic kidney disease

Benefits

• Effectively lowers high blood pressure, reducing strain on the heart and blood vessels
• Decreases the risk of stroke in appropriate patient populations
• Helps protect kidney function in patients with type 2 diabetes and hypertension
• Generally well-tolerated with a favorable side effect profile compared to some other antihypertensive classes
• Once-daily dosing supports medication adherence
• May be used in pediatric patients aged 6 years and older

Common use

Cozaar is primarily prescribed for the management of hypertension (high blood pressure) in adults and children 6 years of age and older. It is also commonly used to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), as demonstrated in the LIFE (Losartan Intervention For Endpoint reduction in hypertension) study. Additionally, Cozaar is indicated for the treatment of diabetic nephropathy (kidney disease) in patients with type 2 diabetes and hypertension, where it has been shown to reduce proteinuria and slow the progression of renal impairment.

Dosage and direction

The recommended starting dose of Cozaar for most adult patients with hypertension is 50 mg once daily. The dosage can be increased to 100 mg once daily based on blood pressure response. For patients with intravascular volume depletion (such as those treated with diuretics), a starting dose of 25 mg once daily is recommended. For stroke risk reduction in hypertension with LVH, the usual starting dose is 50 mg once daily, with possible addition of hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg daily or increase to 100 mg once daily based on blood pressure response. For diabetic nephropathy, the usual starting dose is 50 mg once daily, which may be increased to 100 mg once daily based on blood pressure response. Pediatric hypertensive patients (6 years and older) typically start with 0.7 mg/kg once daily (up to 50 mg total). Tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, with or without food, at approximately the same time each day.

Precautions

Patients should be monitored for hypotension, especially after initiation or dosage increase. Renal function should be assessed periodically, particularly in patients with renal impairment, heart failure, or those receiving NSAIDs. Potassium levels should be monitored in patients with renal impairment, diabetes, or those taking potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics. Cozaar should be used with caution in patients with hepatic impairment, as losartan concentrations may be increased. Patients with significant aortic or mitral stenosis should be closely monitored. Pregnancy should be avoided while taking Cozaar, as drugs that act directly on the renin-angiotensin system can cause injury and death to the developing fetus.

Contraindications

Cozaar is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to any component of this product. It is contraindicated in pregnancy due to the risk of fetal harm, particularly during the second and third trimesters. Cozaar should not be used in patients with a history of angioedema related to previous treatment with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers.

Possible side effect

Common side effects may include dizziness, upper respiratory infection, nasal congestion, back pain, and fatigue. Less common but more serious side effects may include hypotension, hyperkalemia, renal impairment, and angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, throat, or tongue). Some patients may experience elevated liver enzymes. Rare cases of rhabdomyolysis have been reported. Allergic reactions, including rash and urticaria, may occur. Patients should report any unusual symptoms to their healthcare provider promptly.

Drug interaction

Cozaar may interact with other medications including: potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics (increased risk of hyperkalemia); NSAIDs (may reduce antihypertensive effect and increase risk of renal impairment); lithium (increased lithium concentrations); other antihypertensive agents (additive blood pressure lowering effects); and rifampin (may decrease losartan concentrations). Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements.

Missed dose

If a dose of Cozaar is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered on the same day. If it is almost time for the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose. Consistency in dosing is important for maintaining stable blood pressure control.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include hypotension and tachycardia. Bradycardia could occur from parasympathetic (vagal) stimulation. If overdose occurs, the patient should be placed in a supine position and given supportive treatment, including intravenous fluids and symptomatic management. Losartan and its active metabolite are not removed by hemodialysis. In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention or contact a Poison Control Center.

Storage

Cozaar tablets should be stored at controlled room temperature, 20-25°C (68-77°F), in a tightly closed container. Keep away from moisture, light, and excessive heat. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Properly discard any unused medication that is outdated or no longer needed.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting or changing any medication regimen. Individual patient needs may vary, and proper medical supervision is essential. The prescribing information provided here may not include all possible uses, directions, precautions, or interactions.

Reviews

Clinical studies have demonstrated Cozaar’s efficacy in blood pressure control and cardiovascular risk reduction. The LIFE trial showed losartan-based therapy reduced the risk of stroke by 25% compared to atenolol-based therapy in hypertensive patients with LVH. In renal outcomes, losartan demonstrated significant renoprotective effects in patients with type 2 diabetes and nephropathy. Many patients report satisfactory blood pressure control with once-daily dosing and generally good tolerability. However, individual responses may vary, and some patients may require combination therapy or alternative treatments to achieve optimal blood pressure targets.