Losartan Potassium

Introduction

Losartan Potassium is an anti-hypertensive drug typically prescribed for blood pressure control and protection from the risk of heart attack, stroke and kidney disease. Losartan Potassium is part of a class of antihypertensive drugs known as angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). It works by blocking angiotensin receptor sites on cells and reducing the effects of a small protein called angiotensin II.

Uses For

Losartan is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults and children who are 6 years and older. Losartan is also used to lower the risk of stroke in certain people with heart disease. It should be used as part of a total treatment plan that includes lifestyle changes to reduce your risk of stroke.

Brand Name	Losartan Potassium
Type
Weight
Generic	Losartan Potassium
Manufacturer
Available in	English বাংলা

Mechanism of Action

Losartan Potassium acts by competitively blocking the binding of angiotensin II, a hormone that is responsible for constricting blood vessels and increasing blood pressure. Losartan does not block the binding of angiotensin I to receptors but reduces the interaction of various other peptides that are involved in modulating blood pressure.

How Long Does It Take to Work

Losartan begins to work within 2 hours after taking it and reaches its maximum effect in about 8 hours. Within 4-6 weeks, it may reduce blood pressure to its optimal level.

Absorption

Losartan Potassium is rapidly and completely absorbed after oral administration. The peak antihypertensive effect occurs within 3-6 hours following oral administration.

Route of Elimination

The drug is mainly excreted in the bile and intestine.

Dosage

The usual starting and maintenance dose is 50 mg once daily for most patients. If the antihypertensive effect using 50 mg once daily is inadequate, 25 mg twice daily is recommended prior to increasing the dose. For patients with intravascular volume-depletion (e.g., those treated with high-dose diuretics), a starting dose of 25 mg once daily should be considered. Losartan Potassium can be administered once or twice daily. The total daily dose ranges from 25 mg to 100 mg.

Patients upto 75 years: No initial dosage adjustment is necessary for this group of patients.

Patients over 75 years: Presently there is limited clinical experience in this group; a lower starting dose of 25 mg once daily is recommended. The recommended starting dose of Losartan Potassium is 25mg once a day and can be increased if needed. The maximum dose of the drug is 100mg per day. The dosage should be adjusted based on individual patient needs.

Administration

Losartan Potassium tablets should be taken orally with or without food. Use with food may reduce the risk of dizziness or lightheadedness.

Side Effects

Common side effects reported with the use of Losarotan Potassium include dizziness, headaches, fatigue, nausea, stomach pains, diarrhea, vomiting, and rash. Other serious side effects include low blood pressure or an increased heart rate.

Toxicity

Losartan Potassium does not have a known toxic dose. Overdose may cause symptoms like dizziness, fast heart rate, and fainting.

Precautions

Patients should not take Losartan Potassium if they are allergic to it or any of the inactive ingredients present in the tablet. Patients should also not take it if they have a history of kidney or liver problems.

Interactions

Losartan Potassium may interact with other medications, herbal products, dietary supplements, or vitamins. Therefore, it is important to discuss the possible interactions with your doctor.

Disease Interaction

Certain diseases or medical conditions may interact with Losartan Potassium . Examples include, but are not limited to, kidney problems, liver problems, heart failure, diabetes, and low blood pressure.

Drug Interaction

Losartan Potassium may interact with certain drugs, such as ACE inhibitors or diuretics. It is important to discuss the possible drug interactions with your doctor.

Food Interactions

Certain foods and beverages may interact with Losartan Potassium and should be avoided. Examples include, but are not limited to, grapefruit, grapefruit juice, and supplements containing potassium.

Pregnancy Use

Losartan Potassium should be used during pregnancy only if it is absolutely necessary and only after carefully weighing the risks and benefits.

Lactation Use

The use of Losartan Potassium during lactation is not recommended.

Acute Overdose

In case of an acute overdose, dial 911 or contact the local poison control center. Symptoms of an overdose may include dizziness, fast heart rate, and fainting.

Contraindication

Losartan Potassium should not be used in patients with anuria (lack of urine formation) or in patients who are hypersensitive to this drug.

Use Direction

Losartan Potassium should be taken according to the directions provided by your doctor. It should be taken with or without food, once a day, as prescribed.

Storage Condition

Losartan Potassium should be stored at room temperature in a tight, light-resistant container. It should be kept away from moisture and out of the reach of children.