COZAAR

Who is Cozaar for ?

Losartan is used to treat high blood pressure. It blocks the action of certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly. this medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Losartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker, or ARB. It is thought to help lower blood pressure by blocking angiotensin II, a hormone in the body that causes blood vessels to constrict or narrow. This narrowing of blood vessels due to angiotensin II hormone is an important component of high blood pressure. Blocking the hormone causes vessels to relax or dilate, and thus losartan helps reduce blood pressure.

When should I be careful taking Cozaar ?

Do not take losartan if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking losartan, call your doctor immediately.

Before taking losartan,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to losartan or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially diuretics ("water pills"), lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid), other medications for high blood pressure, potassium supplements, and vitamins.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart or kidney disease or diabetes.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking losartan.

Side Effects

Although side effects from losartan are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• dizziness or lightheadedness
• congestion
• cough
• diarrhea
• trouble sleeping
• headache
• muscle aches
• fever
• sore throat

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, arms, or legs
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• fainting
• rash