Losartan

Losartan is a medication that is prescribed to treat diabetic nephropathy and high blood pressure. Although the medicine cannot cure either condition, it has proven to be effective in controlling high blood pressure and slowing the progression of diabetic nephropathy. The drug works by decreasing the effectiveness of a certain chemical in the body; this causes the blood vessels to relax, which can result in lower blood pressure. Possible side effects of losartan include infection, diarrhea, fatigue, and dizziness. Losartan comes in tablet form and is available in several strengths, including 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg.
 

What Is Losartan?

Losartan potassium (Cozaar®) is a prescription medicine that has been licensed to treat several conditions related to the heart and blood vessels. It is part of a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor blockers, or ARBs for short.
 

Who Makes Losartan?

Losartan is manufactured by Merck & Co.
 

Losartan Uses

Uses of losartan include:
 
Losartan is not a cure for high blood pressure or diabetic nephropathy.
 
Losartan has been approved for use in children ages six and older to treat high blood pressure.
 
(Click What Is Losartan Used For? for more information on losartan uses, including possible off-label uses.)
 

How Does Losartan Work?

Losartan is part of a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor blockers.
 As the name of its drug class implies, losartan blocks angiotensin II receptors. This decreases the effectiveness of a chemical known as angiotensin II, which normally causes blood vessels to narrow (constrict). By blocking the effects of angiotensin II, losartan causes blood vessels to relax, which can lower blood pressure.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;