Cozaar Can Greatly Decrease Risk of Stroke In Hypertensive Patients
Cozaar, or Losartan is a medication used to teat high blood pressure or hypertension, prevent stroke and is also used in Adult Onset Diabetes patients with kidney problems. Cozaar is available by prescription only and belongs to a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor antagonists which prevents the blood vessels from narrowing, thereby improving circulation throughout the body and lowering the risk of stroke in some patients. Cozaar is not without its risks however and patients are encouraged to educate themselves fully before beginning any new medication.
Cozaar is classified by the FDA ( Food and Drug Administration) in Pregnancy Category D which indicates that it is documented that Cozaar will harm, and possibly cause death in unborn babies when taken by pregnant mothers. Obviously, Cozaar is not prescribed to pregnant women, but it is also advised that all women taking Cozaar use a dependable method of birth control to prevent pregnancy while undergoing treatment. It is not known however if Cozaar is passed into the breast milk, so breast feeding mothers are told to err on the side of caution and not take Cozaar while breastfeeding.
Cozaar also has a tendency to effect potassium levels and should not be taken in conjunction with potassium supplements unless directed by the prescribing physician. Additionally some other medications which affect potassium such as spironolactone and triamterene should not be taken with Cozaar. A long as both your doctor and pharmacist are aware of all medications and supplements being taken, the possibility of drug interactions will be minimized greatly.
Patients undergoing a treatment of Cozaar are encouraged to see their physician regularly for overall checkups and so blood pressure levels can be monitored to make sure the Cozaar is benefiting the individual patient. Additionally, the physician may want to perform periodic blood test to check kidney function and potassium levels while on Cozaar.
Disclaimer: Cliff Schaffer does not personally endorse or support any of the comments made within the writings of this article. |
