Drug Name

Dosage & Route Hypertension

Action Angiotensin II receptor (type AT1) antagonist acts as a potent vasoconstrictor and primary vasoactive hormone of the renin angiotensin aldosterone system.

Indication

Adverse Effects

Contraindication

Nursing Responsibility

LOSARTAN POTASSIUM (lo-sar'tan) Cozaar Classifications: cardiovascular agent; angiotensin ii receptor antagonist; antihypertensive

Hypertension

Adult: PO 25 50 mg in 12 divided doses (max: 100 mg/d); start with 25 mg/d if volume depleted (i.e., on diuretics)

CNS: Dizziness, insomnia, headache. GI: Diarrhea, dyspepsia. Musculoskeletal: Muscle cramps, myalgia, back or leg pain. Respiratory: Nasal congestion, cough, upper respiratory infection, sinusitis.

Hypersensitivity to losartan, pregnancy [category C (first trimester), category D (second and third trimesters)], lactation

Assessment & Drug Effects

Monitor BP at drug trough (prior to a scheduled dose). Monitor drug effectiveness, especially in AfricanAmericans when losartan is used as monotherapy. Inadequate response may be improved by splitting the daily dose into twice-daily dose. Lab tests: Monitor CBC, electrolytes, liver & kidney function with longterm therapy.

John Christian Macandog and Leslie Anne Maraon

From Nursingcrib.com