Cozaar (losartan): What it does, how to take it, and safety tips

Cozaar (brand name for losartan) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used mainly to lower high blood pressure. It helps relax blood vessels so blood flows easier, and for some people it can cut the risk of stroke and slow down kidney damage from diabetes. Want no-nonsense info you can use? Here’s what matters most.

How Cozaar works and when to use it

Losartan blocks a chemical called angiotensin II that tightens blood vessels. With those vessels relaxed, blood pressure drops. Doctors prescribe Cozaar for: high blood pressure, protecting kidneys in people with type 2 diabetes and proteinuria, and sometimes to lower stroke risk in certain patients. It’s an alternative to ACE inhibitors, especially if you had a cough on an ACE inhibitor—losartan usually doesn’t cause that cough.

Dosage, side effects and safety tips

Typical adult dosing starts at 50 mg once daily. Some people start at 25 mg, and doses can go up to 100 mg daily depending on how well blood pressure responds. Take it the same time every day, with or without food. If you forget a dose, take it when you remember unless it’s almost time for the next dose—don’t double up.

Common side effects are dizziness, tiredness, and sometimes mild stomach upset. Serious but rare problems include low blood pressure, high potassium (hyperkalemia), kidney problems, and angioedema (swelling of face, lips, throat). If you get sudden swelling, trouble breathing, or fainting, get emergency care.

Watch interactions: avoid or be cautious with potassium supplements and salt substitutes that contain potassium—Cozaar can raise potassium levels. NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) can reduce how well it works and increase kidney risk. Combining with lithium needs close monitoring. Unlike some drugs, grapefruit isn’t a major issue with losartan.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: don’t take Cozaar if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. ARBs can harm a fetus. Talk to your doctor about safer options before trying to conceive or if you find out you’re pregnant. If breastfeeding, check with your clinician—losartan may pass into breast milk.

Monitoring: your doctor will usually check blood pressure, kidney function (creatinine), and potassium levels after starting or changing the dose. If you feel lightheaded when standing up, report it—your dose may need adjusting.

Buying and using safely: only use Cozaar with a prescription. If you buy medicine online, pick a licensed pharmacy and verify credentials. Keep a list of all medicines and supplements you take and share it with your provider to avoid dangerous interactions.

Bottom line: Cozaar is a reliable blood pressure drug with clear benefits for many patients. Know your dose, watch for swelling or signs of high potassium, avoid pregnancy, and keep regular lab checks. Questions about whether it’s right for you? Ask your doctor or pharmacist—they’ll help you weigh benefits and risks based on your health history.

Daniel Walters

Cozaar: Understanding Losartan’s Role in Blood Pressure and Heart Health

Cozaar, known as losartan, is a key medication for treating high blood pressure and protecting your heart. This long-read dives into how Cozaar works, why doctors choose it, and what people need to know about side effects and safe use. We'll look at expert tips, real-life stories, and data to give you everything you need to feel informed and confident about this medication. If you or someone you care about deals with hypertension, you'll find tons of practical advice here.