The following information is a summary about Cozaar. It is not intended to replace a doctor's instructions.
Why is this Cozaar medication prescribed?
Cozaar/Losartan is used to treat high blood pressure. Cozaar blocks the action of certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly.
This Cozaar medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or Cozaar pharmacist for more Cozaar information.
How should this Cozaar medicine be used?
Cozaar/Losartan comes as a tablet to take by mouth. Cozaar is usually taken once or twice a day. Follow the Cozaar directions on your Cozaar prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or Cozaar pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Cozaar/losartan exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of Cozaar or take Cozaar more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Cozaar/Losartan controls high blood pressure but does not cure it. Continue to take Cozaar/losartan even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Cozaar/losartan without talking to your doctor.
What special Cozaar precautions should I follow?
Before taking Cozaar/losartan,
tell your doctor and Cozaar pharmacist if you are allergic to Cozaar/losartan or any other drugs.
tell your doctor and Cozaar pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially diuretics ('water pills'), lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid), other medications for high blood pressure, potassium supplements, and vitamins.
tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart or kidney disease or diabetes.
if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking Cozaar/losartan.
Cozaar Side Effects
Although side effects from Cozaar/losartan are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these Cozaar symptoms are severe or do not go away:
dizziness or lightheadedness
congestion
cough
diarrhea
trouble sleeping
headache
muscle aches
fever
sore throat
If you experience any of the following Cozaar symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, arms, or legs
difficulty breathing or swallowing
fainting
rash
What special Cozaar dietary instructions should I follow?
Talk to your doctor before using salt substitutes containing potassium. If your doctor prescribes a low-salt or low-sodium diet, follow these directions carefully.
What should I do if I forget a Cozaar dose?
Take the missed Cozaar dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next Cozaar dose, skip the missed Cozaar dose and continue your regular Cozaar dosing schedule. Do not take a double Cozaar dose to make up for a missed one.
Other uses for this Cozaar medicine
This Cozaar medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more Cozaar information.
What other Cozaar information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests before and during treatment to check your response to Cozaar.
Do not let anyone else take your Cozaar medication. Ask your Cozaar pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your Cozaar prescription.
In case of Cozaar emergency/overdose
In case of Cozaar overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
What storage conditions are needed for Cozaar?
Keep Cozaar in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store Cozaar at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any Cozaar medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your Cozaar medication.
