Information on Cozaar and How to Use It, Precautions and Other Medications to Avoid While Taking

This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.

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Cozaar Consumer Information

COZAAR

Generic Name: losartan (low SAR tan)

Brand Names: Cozaar

What is the most important information I should know about losartan?

  • Do not take losartan if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. When used during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, losartan can cause injury and even death of the developing fetus. Notify your doctor immediately if you think you might be pregnant.
  • Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Losartan may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities. Also use caution when rising from a sitting or lying position.
  • Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may further lower blood pressure and increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking losartan.

What is losartan?

  • Losartan is in a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. Losartan prevents the constriction (narrowing) of blood vessels (veins and arteries).
  • Losartan is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and to reduce the risk of stroke.
  • Losartan may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking losartan?

  • Before taking losartan, tell your doctor if you
    • have kidney disease;
    • have liver disease;
    • are on a salt-restricted diet or have high levels of potassium in the blood; or
    • are taking a potassium supplement (e.g., K-Dur, Klor-Con, others), or a potassium-sparing diuretic such as amiloride (Midamor), triamterene (Dyrenium, Dyazide, Maxzide), or spironolactone (Aldactone).
  • You may not be able to take losartan, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
  • Losartan is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that it is known to be harmful to an unborn baby. When used during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, losartan can cause injury and even death of the developing fetus. Do not take losartan if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
  • It is not known whether losartan passes into breast milk. Do not take losartan without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take losartan?

  • Take losartan exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
  • Take each dose with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.
  • Losartan can be taken with or without food.
  • It is important to take losartan regularly to get the most benefit.
  • Your doctor may want you to have blood pressure checks, blood tests, or other medical evaluations during treatment with losartan to monitor progress and side effects.
  • Do not stop taking losartan without first talking to your doctor. If you stop taking the medication, your condition could become much worse.
  • Store losartan at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

  • Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

  • Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
  • Symptoms of a losartan overdose are not well known but might include dizziness, weakness, fainting, and fatigue.

What should I avoid while taking losartan?

  • Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Losartan may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities. Also use caution when rising from a sitting or lying position.
  • Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may further lower blood pressure and increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking losartan.
  • Do not use salt substitutes or take potassium supplements without first talking to your doctor. Losartan can affect potassium levels in the body.

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