What Is Losartan?

Possible Side Effects

Most medications come with possible side effects. It appears as if losartan is no different. It has an extensive list of potential unpleasant effects. Some of the most common ones seem to include back pain, upper respiratory infections, and dizziness. Fatigue and chest pain may also appear. Diarrhea could be another side effect of this medication. Individuals with diabetes or kidney disease may deal with low blood sugar because of this medication. Other effects may include insomnia, coughing, and vertigo. Anemia, muscle cramps, and nasal congestion can also appear. It may take their body a few weeks to fully adjust to the medication as well. During this time, they may deal with appetite loss or irritability. Headaches, constipation, and tinnitus appear to be possibilities as well.

These symptoms may not disappear after a few weeks. If this is the case, patients may want to call their doctor. They may also need immediate medical attention for some side effects. Possibilities include confusion, blurry vision, and leg weakness. This attention may also be necessary for breathing issues or stomach discomfort. Increased potassium can happen with this medication. This seems to be why many doctors will choose to conduct regular blood tests. They should be able to monitor a patient's potassium this way.

Uncover the precautions to remember next.

Precautions To Remember

Sometimes it may not be as simple as asking for this medication and receiving a prescription. Doctors will have to go over some precautions for patients first. There seem to be many parts of a patient's medical history to question. Kidney disease or liver disease are two conditions to disclose with a doctor. A history of congestive heart failure or electrolyte imbalances may mean a patient cannot take this medication. A history of low potassium also appears to be a serious concern. Individuals dealing with dehydration may not be able to take this medication either. Breastfeeding or pregnant women cannot take it due to the potential risk to their child.

Alcohol may not interact well with losartan. Thus, patients may want to avoid it. They should consider avoiding potassium supplements and salt substitutes as well. Patients may be able to take this medication with or without food. They do not seem to be able to store it near light or moisture. Heat does not appear to be good for it, either. Individuals may also need to stand up slowly after taking this medication. They can get dizzy easier with it. There appears to be a potential risk of dehydration. As such, patients may want to discuss their fluid intake with a doctor.

Discover some possible medication interactions next.