What is losartan ?
Losartan (Cozaar brand name) is a drug that can be used for the treatment of high blood pressure, and for kidney problems arising from diabetes, if these diabetics treated for high blood pressure. Chemically, the gross formula: C22H23ClN6O.
Losartan belongs to the group of angiotensin II antagonists, which counteract the effects of the endogenous substance angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is part of the RAAS: the renin, angiotensin, aldosterone system with which the body, inter alia, regulates blood pressure. Angiotensin II constricts blood vessels and increases blood pressure. Angiotensin II also stimulates aldosteronafgifte. Aldosterone works through effects on sodium metabolism also hypertensive.
Losartan itself owns only a slight blood pressure lowering activity. More important is the following: After absorption in the body it is converted in the liver to active metabolites. The most active metabolite EXP3174 is, and which works 10 to 20 times more potent than losartan in the inhibition of angiotensin II, and is active for longer. Because EXP3174 itself hardly effective if it is taken by mouth, it means when losartan entered the market. Food does not affect the efficacy of losartan. The effect lasts for 24 hours on. Usual dose: 50-100 mg per day. The main side effect is dizziness, and rarely angioedema.
For the treatment of hypertension are many different medications available, such as beta blockers and diuretics ("water pills"). In general, angiotensin II inhibitors are not the first choice in hypertension, for each patient, the doctor will make a trade-off. Important here are any cardiovascular disease, diabetes and kidney problems. Side effects and costs also play a role. Generally affecting the RAAS by ACE inhibitor cheaper and Losartan advised when giving too many side effects, such as coughing. Losartan is also prescribed in a fixed combination with hydrochlorothiazide, known under the brand names Cozaar Plus Fortzaar and Hyzaar.