Cozaar

What is it?

Composition

Cozaar contains the active substance losartan potassium, which belongs to the group of angiotensin II receptor antagonists. This substance performs the main function of lowering blood pressure and protecting target organs. Additionally, the tablets contain auxiliary components that ensure their stability, absorption and long-term storage.

• Losartan potassium is the main active ingredient responsible for the therapeutic effect.
• Microcrystalline cellulose - used to form the structure of the tablet.
• Croscarmellose sodium - improves the solubility of the drug in the body.
• Magnesium stearate - used as a lubricant.
• Hydroxypropyl cellulose and titanium dioxide - make up the film coating, providing protection from external factors.

This balanced composition helps Cozaar effectively combat hypertension, providing a minimum number of side effects when used correctly.

How to use?

Cozaar is taken orally once a day, regardless of meal time. The tablet should be swallowed whole with plenty of water. Dosage recommendations depend on the indications and the patients health condition, so it is important to strictly follow the doctors instructions.

1. The standard starting dose for the treatment of hypertension in adults is 50 mg once a day. If necessary, the dosage can be increased to 100 mg.
2. For patients with hypertension and type 2 diabetes, the dosage also starts with 50 mg. If ineffective, the doctor may adjust the dose.
3. For elderly patients or people with liver disease, a lower starting dose may be recommended.

The duration of the course of treatment is determined by the doctor individually. If a dose is missed, do not double the next one, but continue taking it according to the schedule.

How does it work?

Cozaar works by blocking angiotensin II receptors, a hormone that constricts blood vessels, increases blood pressure, and stimulates the production of aldosterone, which retains sodium and water in the body. By blocking these receptors, the drug helps to relax blood vessels, lower blood pressure, and reduce the load on the cardiovascular system.

Losartan potassium, the active ingredient in Cozaar, has the following effects:

Reduces peripheral vascular resistance, which helps normalize blood flow.

Reduces the risk of complications associated with high blood pressure, such as stroke and heart failure.
Slows the progression of diabetic nephropathy by reducing protein levels in the urine and protecting the kidneys in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Thus, Cozaar not only reduces blood pressure, but also has an organoprotective effect, improving the general condition of the patient.

Indications

Cozaar is prescribed for the treatment and prevention of diseases associated with high blood pressure and dysfunction of the cardiovascular system. The drug is used as an independent remedy or as part of combination therapy.

• Hypertension (arterial hypertension) - to control blood pressure in adults and children over 6 years old.
• Heart failure - to reduce the load on the heart and improve its function.
• Kidney protection in patients with type 2 diabetes, especially in the presence of proteinuria (protein excretion in the urine).
• Prevention of cardiovascular complications such as stroke and myocardial infarction in patients at increased risk.
• Reduction of left ventricular hypertrophy associated with hypertension.

Cozaar is widely used in clinical practice due to its ability to improve the prognosis in patients with cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.

Contraindications

Despite the effectiveness of Cozaar, its use may be limited in some cases. The drug is contraindicated in certain conditions that may worsen the patients health or cause adverse reactions.

• Hypersensitivity or allergy to losartan or other components of the drug.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding, since the drug may adversely affect the development of the fetus or penetrate into breast milk.
• Severe liver dysfunction, since losartan is metabolized mainly in the liver.
• Age up to 6 years for the treatment of hypertension and diabetic nephropathy, unless clinically justified.
• Severe hyperkalemia (high potassium levels in the blood), which can increase the risk of heart complications.

Before starting treatment, it is important to inform your doctor about all existing diseases, medications taken and health conditions in order to avoid possible complications.

Side effects

Like any medicine, Cozaar may cause side effects. Not everyone gets them and they depend on the individual characteristics of the body, the dosage and the duration of use.

• Dizziness or a feeling of weakness are the most common symptoms, which occur due to a decrease in blood pressure.
• Increased potassium levels in the blood (hyperkalemia), which can lead to muscle weakness or abnormal heart rhythms.
• Allergic reactions such as rash, itching or tissue swelling (angioedema).
• Headaches and sleep disturbances, which occur in some patients with long-term use.
• Rarely - kidney dysfunction, especially in patients with existing kidney disease.

If serious or persistent side effects occur, you must stop taking the drug and consult a doctor immediately. Regular medical supervision helps minimize the risk of adverse reactions.