Losartan

Key points

• An angiotensin II receptor blocker that also helps protect kidney function in people with type 2 diabetes, beyond lowering blood pressure.
• Should be avoided during pregnancy or in severe liver impairment, and used cautiously with diuretics or anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Potassium supplements and salt substitutes can raise potassium levels further, since the medicine already tends to increase them.

What is Losartan?

Losartan functions as an angiotensin II receptor blocker. It works by relaxing blood vessels, which allows blood to flow with less resistance. Because several commercial brands exist, patients can find variations in formulation and brand names to suit specific treatment plans.

What Losartan is used for

Primary indications for this ingredient include Hypertension and the prevention of Diabetic Nephropathy, which involves guarding kidney function in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

How does Losartan work?

When your body produces a chemical called angiotensin II, blood vessels can tighten, which raises blood pressure. Losartan blocks the receptors that angiotensin II binds to, preventing this tightening response. By keeping vessels open and relaxed, the medication maintains lower blood pressure and eases the workload on your heart.

Losartan brands and forms

While the medical structure of the ingredient remains consistent, manufacturers provide different brand options. Patients often see choices between originator medications and generic versions, which provide the same active compound. You can explore relevant medical products within our Heart & Blood Pressure section. The primary available form is a film-coated tablet for oral intake.

Safety overview for Losartan

What to check before using this medicine

Use of this medication is not suitable if you are pregnant or have a history of severe liver impairment. Interactions with other diuretics or anti-inflammatory drugs are common, as these may alter how the medication performs.

Possible reactions and tolerability

Some individuals experience dizziness, fatigue, or an increase in potassium levels. Persistent symptoms or changes in health status often require a review of the dosage or therapy plan.

Interactions and health factors

Potassium supplements and certain salt substitutes can interact with this medication. Product labelling and verified clinical sources remain the correct references for specific contraindications, interactions and reactions.

Further reading

• Losartan: MedlinePlus Drug Information
• Losartan - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf