COZAAR (LOSARTAN POTASSIUM)

A Description of Cozaar

Cozaar belongs to a group of blood pressure medications called angiotensin II receptor antagonists, which can improve circulation by relaxing and widening the blood vessels in order to lower your blood pressure and other health risks that hypertension can cause. It comes as a pill to be taken orally, and is available as brand name Cozaar or generic Losartan Potassium. A valid prescription is required to start taking it. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

How Cozaar Works for Hypertension

When taken as prescribed, Cozaar will work by blocking the release of a hormone called angiotensin II. Without the action of this hormone, smooth muscle cells can relax so your blood vessels are able to dilate and allow a proper blood flow throughout your body and your heart will not have to work as hard.

Cozaar will help to minimize these risks, but it cannot cure hypertension. With lifestyle changes that include maintaining a proper weight, exercise, no smoking, and eating healthier you can help reduce high blood pressure levels.

Hypertension Info Everyone Should Know

Regular physical exams are the best way to learn about and monitor your blood pressure and your doctor can decide whether you are at risk or not. This is very important as hypertension has no signs or symptoms to alert you to any possible health dangers.

Hypertension usually develops when your veins and arteries become narrowed, usually due to a build-up of plaque. This causes your blood to push harder as a way of compensating for the decreased circulation. It puts an enormous amount of pressure on the cardiovascular system, and often leads to kidney damage, strokes, heart attacks, and other forms of heart disease when left unchecked.

Before You Receive an Rx for Cozaar

Ask your doctor if Cozaar is safe to take while you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding. Your doctor should know of other medical conditions or allergies you have and compile a list of any OTC or Rx drugs you currently take or use, including herbal remedies and dietary or vitamin supplements to determine if Cozaar is the right medication for you.

Precautions for Cozaar

Do not perform any activities, including operating a vehicle, machinery, or other tasks that require full alertness until you know how Cozaar will affect you. Be sure to tell your doctor right away if you notice any unexplained muscle pain or weakness, especially when combined with fever, fatigue, and dark colored urine. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any of the meds you take without first talking to your doctor as this may cause a change in how Cozaar will work for you.

Possible Side Effects of Cozaar

• Cough, cold, and flu symptoms
• Muscle pain
• Stomach pain
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue