Losartan 50 mg Daily: Effects, Benefits, and Side Effects

Losartan 50 mg (Cozaar) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) for hypertension. It selectively blocks AT1 receptors, preventing angiotensin II-mediated vasoconstriction, aldosterone release, and remodeling.

Effects

• Lowers BP (systolic/diastolic ~10–15/5–10 mmHg).
• Reduces cardiovascular events (stroke, MI, heart failure hospitalization).
• Renoprotective: Reduces proteinuria, slows diabetic nephropathy progression.
• Uric acid lowering: Unique among ARBs (uricosuric effect).

Common Side Effects

• Dizziness, fatigue, hyperkalemia (monitor K⁺).
• Dry cough (rare vs. ACE inhibitors).
• GI upset, headache.

Monitoring

BP, renal function (Cr, eGFR), potassium at baseline, 1–2 weeks, then periodically. Contraindicated in pregnancy (fetal toxicity). Dose adjust for hepatic impairment.