Losartan hydrochlorothiazide 100 25 mg tab

This combination tablet, containing 100 mg of losartan and 25 mg of hydrochlorothiazide, effectively manages high blood pressure. Losartan blocks the hormone angiotensin II, relaxing blood vessels, while hydrochlorothiazide increases urine production, lowering blood volume.

Always take this medication precisely as prescribed. Missed doses should be taken as soon as you remember, unless it’s close to the next dose. Never double up on doses. Regular blood pressure monitoring is vital; schedule checkups with your doctor to track your progress.

Potential side effects include dizziness, lightheadedness, and dehydration. Drink plenty of water, particularly during hot weather or increased physical activity. Inform your doctor immediately about any unusual symptoms, such as swelling, persistent cough, or muscle weakness. This medication may interact with other drugs; provide a complete list of your medications to your physician or pharmacist.

Remember: This information is for guidance only and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and to address any concerns about Losartan Hydrochlorothiazide 100/25 mg tablets.

Losartan Hydrochlorothiazide 100/25 mg Tablet: A Detailed Overview

This combination tablet treats high blood pressure. Losartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), relaxes blood vessels. Hydrochlorothiazide, a thiazide diuretic, increases urine production, lowering blood volume.

Expect a decrease in blood pressure within a few weeks. Regular blood pressure monitoring is crucial. Report any dizziness, lightheadedness, or unusual swelling immediately to your doctor.

Common side effects include dizziness, headache, and fatigue. Less common, but potentially serious, side effects involve kidney problems and electrolyte imbalances. Your doctor will monitor these.

Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not stop abruptly without consulting your doctor, as this could lead to a rebound increase in blood pressure. This medication interacts with certain other medications, so inform your doctor about all your current medications and supplements.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle alongside medication. This includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and limiting alcohol and sodium intake. These lifestyle changes maximize the medication’s benefits.

Keep your medication in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Proper storage extends its shelf life. Always follow your doctor’s instructions for dosage and duration of treatment.

This overview provides general information; consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice tailored to your individual health needs and potential interactions with other medications.

What is Losartan Hydrochlorothiazide?

Losartan Hydrochlorothiazide is a combination medication containing two active ingredients: losartan and hydrochlorothiazide. It’s prescribed to manage high blood pressure (hypertension).

How it Works

Losartan belongs to a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). It works by relaxing blood vessels, making it easier for your heart to pump blood. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic, often called a “water pill.” It helps your body get rid of excess salt and water, further lowering blood pressure.

Benefits of Using Losartan Hydrochlorothiazide

• Reduces blood pressure, lowering your risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.
• Often effective when other blood pressure medications haven’t been sufficient.
• Provides a convenient, once-daily dosage.

Potential Side Effects

Like all medications, Losartan Hydrochlorothiazide can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects include dizziness, lightheadedness, and fatigue. Less common but more serious side effects require immediate medical attention.

Important Considerations

1. Inform your doctor about all medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, as interactions can occur.
2. Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider immediately.
3. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding dosage and administration.
4. Avoid alcohol while taking this medication, as it can worsen side effects.
5. Regularly monitor your blood pressure as directed by your physician.

When to Consult Your Doctor

Contact your doctor if you experience severe side effects, such as swelling, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, or difficulty breathing. Regular checkups are crucial for monitoring the effectiveness of the medication and adjusting the dosage as needed.

Medication Interactions

This medication can interact with certain other drugs, including potassium supplements and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Discuss potential interactions with your doctor or pharmacist before starting Losartan Hydrochlorothiazide.

Mechanism of Action: How it Lowers Blood Pressure

Losartan hydrochlorothiazide combines two distinct blood pressure-lowering agents. Losartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), directly blocks the action of angiotensin II, a hormone that constricts blood vessels. This blockage reduces peripheral vascular resistance, leading to lower blood pressure. Simultaneously, hydrochlorothiazide, a thiazide diuretic, increases sodium and water excretion by the kidneys. This reduces blood volume, further contributing to lower blood pressure. The combined effect of these two mechanisms provides a more potent and sustained reduction in blood pressure than either drug alone.

Losartan’s Role

Angiotensin II’s vasoconstricting effects are significant in raising blood pressure. By preventing angiotensin II from binding to its receptors, losartan prevents this vasoconstriction. Additionally, losartan may also reduce the release of aldosterone, a hormone that promotes sodium and water retention. This contributes to the overall reduction in blood volume and blood pressure.

Hydrochlorothiazide’s Contribution

Hydrochlorothiazide works in the kidneys’ distal convoluted tubules, inhibiting sodium reabsorption. This increased sodium excretion leads to increased water excretion, thus reducing blood volume. Lower blood volume directly translates to lower blood pressure.

Common Uses and Indications for Prescription

Losartan hydrochlorothiazide 100/25 mg tablets are primarily prescribed to manage high blood pressure (hypertension). This combination medication effectively lowers blood pressure by acting on two different mechanisms. Losartan blocks angiotensin II, a hormone that narrows blood vessels, while hydrochlorothiazide increases urine output, reducing blood volume.

Beyond hypertension, this medication often treats patients with type 2 diabetes who have high blood pressure. Lowering blood pressure in these individuals helps protect their kidneys and other organs from damage. Specific dosage adjustments might be needed depending on patient factors.

Doctors may also prescribe Losartan/Hydrochlorothiazide for patients with chronic kidney disease, particularly those with hypertension. This is because managing blood pressure plays a crucial role in slowing the progression of kidney disease.

Important Note: This medication is a prescription drug. Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding dosage and duration of treatment. Never alter your dosage without consulting your physician.

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of any health issues.

Possible Side Effects and Precautions

Losartan/Hydrochlorothiazide can cause various side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Some common side effects include dizziness, headache, and fatigue. Less common but potentially serious side effects warrant immediate medical attention.

Serious Side Effects Requiring Immediate Medical Attention

• Signs of allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling (face, lips, tongue), difficulty breathing.
• Symptoms of low blood pressure: dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting.
• Signs of kidney problems: decreased urine output, swelling in legs/feet.
• High potassium levels (hyperkalemia): muscle weakness, nausea, irregular heartbeat.
• Liver problems: yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine.

Before starting Losartan/Hydrochlorothiazide, inform your doctor about existing medical conditions. This includes, but is not limited to:

Precautions and Important Information

1. Kidney disease
2. Liver disease
3. Heart disease
4. Diabetes
5. Lupus
6. High or low potassium levels
7. Pregnancy or breastfeeding

This medication may interact with other drugs. Always provide your doctor with a complete list of medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking. Regular blood tests might be needed to monitor kidney function and potassium levels. Drink plenty of fluids while taking this medication, especially during hot weather. Stop taking Losartan/Hydrochlorothiazide and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any concerning side effects. This information does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for any questions or concerns.

Drug Interactions: What to Avoid

Avoid combining Losartan/Hydrochlorothiazide with lithium. This combination can significantly increase lithium levels in your blood, potentially leading to lithium toxicity. Monitor your lithium levels closely if you must take both medications.

Potassium-sparing diuretics like spironolactone or amiloride should be used cautiously, if at all, with Losartan/Hydrochlorothiazide. The combination can raise potassium levels excessively, causing potentially dangerous hyperkalemia. Your doctor will carefully weigh the benefits and risks.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including ibuprofen and naproxen, can reduce the blood pressure-lowering effects of Losartan/Hydrochlorothiazide. This interaction may be especially relevant for people with high blood pressure or heart failure. Talk to your doctor before combining these medications.

Other Medications Requiring Caution

Several other medications may interact with Losartan/Hydrochlorothiazide. These interactions may not always be severe, but monitoring is necessary. Always inform your doctor and pharmacist of all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal remedies.

Specific Interactions Table

Medication Class	Specific Examples	Potential Interaction
ACE inhibitors	Enalapril, Ramipril	Increased risk of hyperkalemia and renal impairment.
Digoxin	Digoxin	Increased risk of digoxin toxicity.
Alcohol	Ethanol	Increased risk of hypotension (low blood pressure).

This information is not exhaustive. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.

Dosage and Administration Guidelines

Typically, take one Losartan Hydrochlorothiazide 100/25 mg tablet once daily. This is the standard dose for most patients.

Take the tablet with a glass of water. You may take it with or without food. Consistency is key – try to take it around the same time each day to maintain consistent blood pressure control.

Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your individual needs and response to treatment. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully, and do not change your dosage without their approval. They will monitor your blood pressure regularly to ensure the medication is working effectively.

Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next dose. Never double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Possible Side Effects: Common side effects include dizziness, lightheadedness, and headache. Inform your doctor if these side effects persist or worsen. Serious side effects are rare but require immediate medical attention.

Storage: Store the medication in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.

Consult your physician for any questions or concerns regarding your medication.

Storage and Disposal Instructions

Store Losartan Hydrochlorothiazide tablets at room temperature, between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C). Protect from moisture and light. Keep the medication in its original container.

Proper Disposal

Discard unused medication properly. Do not flush tablets down the toilet or pour them into the drain. Check with your local pharmacy or waste disposal service for options on safe medication disposal. They can offer guidance on community take-back programs or other safe disposal methods.

Expired Medication

Discard any expired Losartan Hydrochlorothiazide tablets according to your local disposal guidelines. Never reuse expired medication.

When to Contact Your Doctor

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience swelling in your face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a rapid heartbeat. These could be signs of a serious allergic reaction.

Also, call your doctor if you notice persistent dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting. These symptoms may indicate low blood pressure.

Signs of Kidney Problems

Report any changes in urination frequency or amount, or if you notice dark, tea-colored urine. These may signal kidney issues. Pay close attention to your body and report any unusual fatigue or weakness as well.

Other Important Considerations

High blood sugar: Monitor your blood sugar levels, especially if you have diabetes. Report significant changes to your doctor. High potassium levels: Contact your doctor if you develop muscle weakness or numbness. These could be symptoms of high potassium levels, a potential side effect of this medication.