Losartan Potassium is an angiostein II receptor (type AT1)antagonist. Losartan and its principle active metabolite block the vasoconstrictor and aldosterone secreting effects of angiostein II by selectively blocking the binding of angiostein II to AT1.

The drug is used for treating High blood pressure and preventing progression of kidney diseases in patients suffering from type 2 diabetes.

Working
The drug acts by preventing the action of a hormone called angiotensin II in the human body. Angiotensin II generally acts on special receptors in the body, with two major results. One, it narrows the peripheral blood vessels , and two, it stimulates the production of hormone aldosterone, another hormone in the body. Aldosterone hormone, causes salt and water to be retained by the kidneys, there by increasing the volume of fluid in the blood vessels. Losartan blocks the receptors that angiotensin II acts on, and so prevents its actions.

Dosage
25-100 mg once or twice daily: starting and maintenance dose: 50 mg once a day. In volume depleted patients: 25 mg once daily.

Contra- Indications: Hypersensitivity, pregnancy. Lactating mothers

Side Effects
The drug has certain side effects, that can affect individuals in different ways. The following are some of the side effects, that are often associated with the drug:

• Diarrhoea
• Dyspepsia
• Myalgia
• Oedema
• Dizziness
• Headache

Brands