Losartan is one of the most recommended medicines by specialists for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure). Also, it has been implemented in stroke prevention.
Hypertension is one of the most widespread diseases in Colombia, since, according to a report by the High Cost Account, there are 4,802,143 cases with a limit to 2021. This means that millions of people depend on this medicine to be able to lead a normal life. Read here: How to lower blood pressure?, experts explain it
It is worth mentioning that patients should know how this medicine works and what are the aspects that need to be taken into account when ingesting it. From MedLine Plus, the online information service of the US National Library of Medicine, they explain that knowing this information “we will be able to observe its benefits and avoid the consequences of incorrect use”.
On the other hand, specialists point out that when high blood pressure is not treated properly, it can cause damage to the brain, heart, blood vessels, kidneys and other parts of the body. For this reason it is important that patients adhere to the pharmacological treatment and administer it following the indications of the attending physician.
What is losartan used for?
From MedLine they explain that “losartan is used alone or in combination with other drugs to treat high blood pressure.” It is also used to reduce the risk of having a stroke in people who have high blood pressure and a heart condition called left ventricular hypertrophy. It may interest you: The sex position that almost killed a 45-year-old woman
What special diet should I follow while taking this medicine?
While there are no specific recommendations, specialists advise against using potassium-containing salt substitutes without first checking that it is safe to do so. In addition, you should follow any dietary recommendations given by your doctor, such as whether they prescribe a low-salt or low-sodium diet.
What recommendations should I follow?
According to MedLine Pluses, these are the guidelines you should be aware of before taking losartan:
1. You should tell your doctor if you are allergic to losartan or any of the ingredients of this medication.
2. Tell your doctor if you have diabetes and are taking any medications. Your doctor may not recommend losartan if you are taking a medicine called aliskiren.
3. Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, vitamins or food supplements.
4. You should tell your doctor if you suffer from heart failure or kidney or liver disease.
5. If you are a woman, you should tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding. Read: Mr hypertensive, have you taken your meds yet?
Side effects
These are the side effects that losartan can cause, according to MedLine Plus:
– Pain in the legs, knee or back.
– Muscle weakness or cramps.
– Diarrhea.
– Stomach acidity.
– Less sensitivity to touch.
If you have any of these symptoms, call your doctor right away:
– Swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles or calves.
– Hoarseness.
– Difficulty breathing or swallowing.
– Chest pain. Read also: The drink that will help you keep your cholesterol and blood pressure under control
Precautions
It should be noted that there are cases where taking losartan is not recommended, for example, if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, you should know that you will need to stop taking the drug during pregnancy, as “losartan can cause death or serious injury to the fetus if taken in the last 6 months of pregnancy”, ensure from MedLine.
