Drawing

Generic Name Losartan potassium

Brand Name Cozaar
Angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB)
Classification
Antihypertensive
Selectively blocks the binding of angiotensin II to specific tissue
receptors found in the vascular smooth muscle and adrenal gland;
Action this action blocks the vasoconstriction effect of the renin-
angiotensin system as well as the release of aldosterone leading to
decreased BP
Starting dose of 50 mg PO daily. Patients on diuretics or
hypovolemic patients may only require 25 mg daily. Dosage
Dosage
ranges from 25-100mg PO given once or twice a day have been
used
Treatment of hypertension, alone or in combination with other
antihypertensive
Treatment of diabetic nephropathy with an elevated serum
Indication
creatinine and proteinuria.
Reduction of the risk of stroke in patients with hypertension and
left ventricular hypertrophy
Contraindicated with hypersensitivity losartan, pregnancy (use
Contraindicatio during the second or third trimester can cause injury or even
n death to the fetus), lactation
Use cautiously with hepatic or renal dysfunction, hypervolemia
Drug Interaction Decreased serum levels and effectiveness if taken concurrently
with Phenobarbital
 Losartan is converted to an active metabolite by cytochrome P450-
3A4. Drugs that inhibit 3A4 (ketoconazole, fluconazole,
diltiazem) may decrease the antihypertensive effects of losartan
CNS: headache, dizziness, syncope, insomnia
CV: hypotension

Side Effects and Dermatologic: rash, uticaria, pruritus, alopecia, dry skin
Adverse Effects GI: diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, constipation, dry mouth
Respiratory: URI symptoms, cough, sinus disorders
Others: back pain, fever, gout, muscle weakness
1. Administer without regard to meals
2. Maintain hydration. Assess for evidence of URI, cough. Assist
with ambulation if drowsiness.
3. Monitor daily bowel movement, monitor B/P, pulse
4. Alert surgeon and mark patient's chart with notice that losartan
is being taken. The blockage of the renin-angiotensin system
following surgery can produce problems. Hypotension may be
reversed with volume expansion.
5. Caution patient to avoid sudden changes in position to decrease
Nursing
orthostatic hypotension. Use of alcohol, standing for long
Responsibilities
periods, exercising, and hot weather may increase orthostatic
hypotension.
6. Emphasize the importance of continuing to take as directed,
even if feeling well.
7. Take missed doses as soon as remembered if not almost time for
next dose.
8. Instruct patient to take medication at the same time each day.
9. Warn patient not to discontinue therapy unless directed by the
physician.