Cozaar (losartan) is used in the treatment of high blood pressure. Cozaar is effective when used alone or with other high blood pressure medications, such as diuretics that help the body get rid of water.

Cozaar is also used to slow the progress of kidney disease caused by type 2 diabetes (the type of diabetes that does not require insulin shots). It is the first of a new class of blood pressure medications called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. Cozaar works, in part, by preventing the hormone angiotensin II from constricting the blood vessels, which tends to raise blood pressure.

Adults

The usual starting dose of Cozaar is 50 milligrams once daily. However, Cozaar can also be taken twice daily, with total daily dosage ranging from 25 milligrams to 100 milligrams. If your blood pressure does not respond within 3 to 6 weeks, your doctor may increase your dose or add a low-dose diuretic to your regimen.
For people taking diuretics and people with liver problems, the usual starting dose of Cozaar is 25 milligrams daily. Your doctor may adjust your dosage according to your response.
Kidney disease caused by diabetes. The usual starting dose of Cozaar is 50 milligrams once daily. The doctor may increase the dose to 100 milligrams once a day if blood pressure remains too high.

Children
The safety and effectiveness of Cozaar in children have not been studied.

Cozaar Overdosage
Cozaar taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Information regarding Cozaar overdosage is limited. However, hypotension (low blood pressure) and abnormally rapid or slow heartbeat may be signs of an overdose.

Cozaar Storage instructions
Store at room temperature. Keep in a tightly closed container, away from light. Preparations
Cozaar 25 and 50mg

You must take Cozaar regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Cozaar, and you must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Cozaar does not cure high blood pressure; it merely keeps it under control.

Special precautions if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Cozaar can cause injury or even death to the unborn child when used in the second or third trimester of pregnancy. Stop taking Cozaar as soon as you know you are pregnant. Cozaar may appear in breast milk and could affect the nursing infant.

Special warnings about Cozaar
Cozaar can cause low blood pressure, especially if you are also taking a diuretic. You may feel light-headed or faint, especially during the first few days of therapy. If these symptoms occur, contact your doctor. Your dosage may need to be adjusted or discontinued. Be sure you know how you react to Cozaar before you drive or operate machinery. Be sure to tell your doctor about any medical conditions you have, especially liver or kidney disease and congestive heart failure. In very rare cases, Cozaar has triggered fatal kidney problems in people with heart failure.

Cozaar tends to increase the level of potassium in the blood. Check with your doctor before taking potassium supplements or using a salt substitute.