Zerotens
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 |
|---|---|---|
| zerotens 3 mg tablet | ৳ 4.00 | ৳ 40.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Zerotens (Losartan Potassium) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used to treat high blood pressure, reduce the risk of stroke in patients with high blood pressure and an enlarged heart, and to treat kidney disease in patients with type 2 diabetes and a history of high blood pressure.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose 50 mg once daily. May be increased to 100 mg once daily or divided into two doses (e.g., 50 mg twice daily).
Elderly
Consider starting with a lower dose (e.g., 25 mg once daily) in patients over 75 years.
Renal_impairment
No initial dosage adjustment is generally required, but close monitoring is advised. Patients on dialysis can take their usual dose.
How to Take
Take orally, with or without food. It can be taken at any time of day, but try to take it at the same time each day.
Mechanism of Action
Losartan selectively blocks the binding of angiotensin II to the AT1 receptor found in many tissues (e.g., vascular smooth muscle, adrenal gland). This blockade prevents the vasoconstrictor and aldosterone-secreting effects of angiotensin II, leading to vasodilation, decreased blood pressure, and reduction in blood volume.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Blood pressure reduction begins within 6 hours, maximal effect within 3-6 weeks.
Excretion
Approximately 35% excreted in urine and 60% in feces, primarily as unchanged drug and its active metabolite.
Half life
Losartan: 2 hours; active metabolite (EXP3174): 6-9 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Bioavailability is approximately 33%.
Metabolism
Undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism by CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 enzymes to an active carboxylic acid metabolite (EXP3174), which is more potent than Losartan.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Pregnancy (especially second and third trimesters)
- Hypersensitivity to Losartan or any component of the formulation
- Concomitant use with aliskiren in patients with diabetes
Drug Interactions
Lithium
Increased serum lithium concentrations and toxicity.
ACE Inhibitors
Increased risk of hypotension, hyperkalemia, and renal impairment.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
May reduce the antihypertensive effect and increase the risk of renal impairment.
Potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., Spironolactone)
Increased risk of hyperkalemia.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include hypotension (low blood pressure) and tachycardia (rapid heartbeat), or possibly bradycardia (slow heartbeat). Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. If ingestion is recent, gastric lavage may be considered.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Contraindicated, especially in the second and third trimesters, due to risk of fetal injury and death. Lactation: Not recommended during breastfeeding as it is unknown if Losartan is excreted in human milk.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Pregnancy (especially second and third trimesters)
- Hypersensitivity to Losartan or any component of the formulation
- Concomitant use with aliskiren in patients with diabetes
Drug Interactions
Lithium
Increased serum lithium concentrations and toxicity.
ACE Inhibitors
Increased risk of hypotension, hyperkalemia, and renal impairment.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
May reduce the antihypertensive effect and increase the risk of renal impairment.
Potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., Spironolactone)
Increased risk of hyperkalemia.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include hypotension (low blood pressure) and tachycardia (rapid heartbeat), or possibly bradycardia (slow heartbeat). Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. If ingestion is recent, gastric lavage may be considered.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Contraindicated, especially in the second and third trimesters, due to risk of fetal injury and death. Lactation: Not recommended during breastfeeding as it is unknown if Losartan is excreted in human milk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, depending on manufacturer specifications.
Availability
Pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic available
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Key clinical trials like RENAAL (Reduction of Endpoints in NIDDM with the Angiotensin II Antagonist Losartan) and LIFE (Losartan Intervention For Endpoint reduction in hypertension) demonstrated Losartan's efficacy in diabetic nephropathy and reducing cardiovascular events, respectively.
Lab Monitoring
- Renal function (creatinine, BUN)
- Serum potassium levels
- Liver function tests (periodically)
Doctor Notes
- Monitor blood pressure, renal function, and serum potassium levels regularly.
- Caution when co-administering with NSAIDs, potassium-sparing diuretics, or lithium.
- Contraindicated in pregnancy due to fetal toxicity.
Patient Guidelines
- Take Zerotens exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor.
- Monitor your blood pressure regularly as advised.
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
Zerotens may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when starting the medication or increasing the dose. 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.
- Manage stress effectively.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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