Overview Of Losartan
Losartan is a prescription medication, typically taken as a tablet. It is designed to help reduce blood pressure. Doctors will start adult patients on an initial dose of fifty milligrams daily. This dose can be increased. The maximum is one hundred milligrams daily. Pediatricians may prescribe losartan to children who are older than six years. These patients may take it as an oral suspension. Individuals with liver dysfunction may need to start with an initial dose of twenty-five milligrams each day.
Many individuals need to take high blood pressure pills. This is why asking a doctor about a losartan prescription may be helpful. After all, everyone wants to get the most effective blood pressure medicine. Of course, other factors can influence if patients are suitable for losartan, including if they take natural supplements for high blood pressure.
How It Works
As an angiotensin II receptor blocker, losartan blocks the effects of angiotensin II. This chemical narrows the blood vessels and increases blood pressure. Blocking the chemical helps widen the veins and arteries, ultimately lowering the patient's blood pressure. Losartan helps improve blood circulation. It also reduces strain on the heart.
The medication is a uricosuric drug that inhibits specific urate transporters, including URAT1. It stops the body's cells from absorbing uric acid. As a result, more uric acid stays in the bloodstream. It can be filtered by the kidneys and excreted through urination. Some researchers believe that losartan and similar medications might block the effects of angiotensin II more effectively than ACE inhibitors.
Continue reading to learn about the uses and benefits next.
Losartan Uses And Benefits
Losartan is primarily used to reduce blood pressure in children and adults with hypertension. In addition, it is commonly prescribed to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with high blood pressure and left ventricular hypertrophy. Patients with high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes may take losartan to reduce the speed at which long-term kidney damage occurs. The medication is also used to treat diabetic neuropathy, chronic kidney disease, and heart failure.
Doctors may consider prescribing losartan for 'off-label' uses as well. Patients should always consult their doctor regarding the risks and benefits of using this medication. This is especially important when it is being considered for 'off-label' use.
Uncover the potential side effects of this medication next.
