Losartan Potassium and Hydrochlorothiazide
Losartan Potassium and Hydrochlorothiazide belong to the class of anti-hypertensives primarily taken to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and reduce the risk of stroke in patients with high blood pressure. It is a combination medication generally used when a single medicine is unable to control high blood pressure. Hypertension or high blood pressure is a life-long or chronic condition in which the force exerted against the artery wall becomes too high. It can lead to the risk of heart diseases, like heart attack and stroke.
Losartan Potassium and Hydrochlorothiazide is a combination of Losartan (angiotensin II receptor antagonist) and Hydrochlorothiazide (thiazide diuretic or water pill). Losartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker that helps to relax and widen the blood vessels (arteries) for easy blood flow to the whole body. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that prevents excess salt absorption in the body, preventing fluid retention. Together it lowers blood pressure and prevents the risk of stroke, heart attack, and edema (fluid overload).
Medical Benefits
- Losartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker that helps to relax and widen the blood vessels (arteries).
- Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that prevents excess salt absorption in the body, preventing fluid retention.
- It lowers blood pressure and prevents the risk of stroke, heart attack, and oedema (fluid retention).
Directions For Use
- Take it with or without food as advised by the doctor.
- Please take Losartan Potassium and Hydrochlorothiazide in the dose and duration prescribed by your doctor based on specific medical conditions.
Storage
- Keep it away from sunlight.
- Keep out of the reach of children.
- Store in a cool and dry place.
Precautions
- This medicine may have an interaction with medicines used to treat mood disorders (lithium), medicines used to treat heart disorders (digoxin), antidiabetic medicines (metformin, insulin), etc.
- You are recommended not to consume alcohol with this composition to avoid unpleasant side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, and liver damage.
- Losartan Potassium and Hydrochlorothiazide are not recommended during pregnancy as they may cause fetal damage and can affect the unborn baby (fetus).
Side Effects
- Dizziness
- Feeling tired
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Dehydration
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I stop taking this medicine when my blood pressure is under control?
No, you are advised to inform your doctor and monitor your blood pressure for at least two weeks before stopping the medicine. Depending upon your current blood pressure readings, there is a possibility your doctor may lower your medicine dosage and not recommend discontinuing it.
For how long can this medicine be taken?
It can be safely taken as long as your doctor has prescribed it to you. Conditions such as high blood pressure are life-long conditions, and one should not abruptly discontinue it without discussing it with a doctor.
What should I do if I miss a dose of this composition?
In case you have missed a dose of this medicine, you are advised to take it as soon as you remember. However, try not to miss a dose in the first place; if it's time for you to take your next dose, then do not take both doses together. Take only one dose; taking a double dose of this medicine will lead to low blood pressure.
Can it cause increased blood potassium levels?
Yes, prolonged intake of this medicine can cause an increase in blood potassium levels. So, patients taking it should avoid taking supplements and food rich in potassium to avoid any unpleasant side effects.