Losacard
Generic Name
Losartan Potassium
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| losacard 25 mg tablet | ৳ 4.51 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Losacard 25 mg Tablet is an Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB) primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy. It is also used in patients with type 2 diabetes and kidney disease.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose is usually 25-50 mg once daily. The dose can be increased to 50-100 mg once daily, or administered as twice daily dosing (e.g., 50 mg twice daily).
Elderly
No initial dosage adjustment is generally needed for the elderly. However, a starting dose of 25 mg may be considered.
Renal_impairment
No initial dosage adjustment is required for patients with mild to moderate renal impairment. For patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 20 mL/min), a lower starting dose of 25 mg once daily is recommended.
How to Take
Take Losacard tablet orally, with or without food. It is usually taken once daily at approximately the same time each day.
Mechanism of Action
Losartan selectively blocks the binding of angiotensin II to the AT1 receptor found in many tissues, including vascular smooth muscle and the adrenal gland. This prevents the vasoconstrictive and aldosterone-stimulating effects of angiotensin II, leading to vasodilation, decreased blood pressure, and reduced sodium and water retention.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Blood pressure lowering effect is seen within 6 hours, with peak effect typically observed at 3-6 weeks of therapy.
Excretion
Approximately 35% of the dose is excreted in the urine and 60% in the feces.
Half life
Losartan: approximately 2 hours; Active metabolite (E-3174): approximately 6-9 hours.
Absorption
Well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with an average oral bioavailability of approximately 33%. Peak plasma concentrations of losartan are reached in about 1 hour and for its active metabolite in about 3-4 hours.
Metabolism
Undergoes significant first-pass metabolism by CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 enzymes to an active carboxylic acid metabolite (E-3174) and several inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to losartan or any component of the formulation
- Pregnancy (especially during the second and third trimesters)
- Concomitant use with aliskiren in patients with diabetes mellitus
Drug Interactions
Lithium
Increased serum lithium concentrations and toxicity have been reported.
Diuretics and other antihypertensives
Additive hypotensive effects.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
May reduce the antihypertensive effect of losartan and increase the risk of renal impairment.
Potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, amiloride, triamterene) or potassium supplements
May lead to increased serum potassium levels (hyperkalemia).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
The most likely manifestation of overdose is hypotension (low blood pressure) and tachycardia (rapid heart rate). Bradycardia (slow heart rate) could occur. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category D (second and third trimesters), Category C (first trimester). Avoid use in pregnancy; if pregnancy is detected, discontinue immediately. Not recommended during breastfeeding due to potential adverse effects on the infant.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to losartan or any component of the formulation
- Pregnancy (especially during the second and third trimesters)
- Concomitant use with aliskiren in patients with diabetes mellitus
Drug Interactions
Lithium
Increased serum lithium concentrations and toxicity have been reported.
Diuretics and other antihypertensives
Additive hypotensive effects.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
May reduce the antihypertensive effect of losartan and increase the risk of renal impairment.
Potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, amiloride, triamterene) or potassium supplements
May lead to increased serum potassium levels (hyperkalemia).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
The most likely manifestation of overdose is hypotension (low blood pressure) and tachycardia (rapid heart rate). Bradycardia (slow heart rate) could occur. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category D (second and third trimesters), Category C (first trimester). Avoid use in pregnancy; if pregnancy is detected, discontinue immediately. Not recommended during breastfeeding due to potential adverse effects on the infant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date
Availability
Available in pharmacies and hospitals
Approval Status
Approved (DGDA, FDA and other regulatory bodies)
Patent Status
Generic available, patent expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Losartan has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in managing hypertension, reducing cardiovascular events, and protecting renal function in specific patient populations. Key trials include the LIFE study (Losartan Intervention For Endpoint reduction in hypertension) and RENAAL study (Reduction of Endpoints in NIDDM with the Angiotensin II Antagonist Losartan).
Lab Monitoring
- Serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) should be monitored periodically, especially in patients with renal impairment.
- Serum potassium levels should be monitored, especially in patients with impaired renal function or those taking potassium-sparing diuretics or potassium supplements.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients about potential dizziness and to stand up slowly.
- Emphasize the importance of consistent daily intake.
- Caution against concomitant use of NSAIDs and potassium supplements.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine regularly as prescribed, even if you feel well.
- Do not stop taking Losacard suddenly without consulting your doctor.
- Monitor your blood pressure regularly at home if advised by your doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Losacard may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially at the start of treatment or when the dose is increased. Exercise caution when driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a healthy diet low in sodium.
- Engage in regular physical activity.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
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