Common uses
Cozaar (Losartan) is used in the treatment of high blood pressure. It is effective when used alone or with other high blood pressure medications, such as diuretics that help the body get rid of water.
Cozaar (Losartan) is also used to slow the progress of kidney disease caused by type 2 diabetes (the type of diabetes that doesn't require insulin shots). It is the first of a new class of blood pressure medications called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. Cozaar (Losartan) works, in part, by preventing the hormone angiotensin II from constricting the blood vessels, which tends to raise blood pressure.
Before using
Warning: Cozaar (Losartan) can cause serious fetal harm if used during the last six months of pregnancy. If pregnancy occurs, stop using this drug and immediately contact your physician. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.
Directions
Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. Cozaar (Losartan) may be taken on an empty stomach or with food. Store this medicine at room temperature in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light.
If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. If you are only taking one dose a day and do not remember your missed dose until the next day, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Cautions
Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to Cozaar (Losartan). Using this medicine alone, with other medicines, or with alcohol may lessen your ability to drive or to perform other potentially dangerous tasks.
Before you begin taking any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist.
For women: use of Cozaar (Losartan) during pregnancy has resulted in fetal and newborn death. If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor immediately. It is unknown if this drug is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine.
Possible side effects
A side effect, that may go away during treatment, is dizziness. If it continues or is bothersome, check with your doctor. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor.
If you take too much
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include unusual dizziness or fainting, and rapid or unusually slow pulse.
Additional information
Do not share Cozaar (Losartan) with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children. If using Cozaar (Losartan) for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.
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