Hyzaar
Generic Name: Losartan
What is Hyzaar?
Hyzaar is a combination drug used to treat high blood pressure. It consists of losartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), and hydrochlorothiozide, a diuretic (water pill). Hyzaar is also used to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with high blood pressure and left ventricular hypertrophy (an enlargement of the section of the heart that is responsible for pumping blood to the rest of the body).What is the most important information I should know about Hyzaar?
Do not use Hyzaar during the second or third trimesters of pregnancy. This drug can cause injury and even death to the developing baby. Tell your doctor immediately if you think you might be pregnant.You must take Hyzaar regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may take several weeks for you to get the full benefit of Hyzaar. You must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Hyzaar does not cure blood pressure; it only keeps it under control.
Hyzaar may cause fluid and salt imbalance; tell your doctor if you experience any signs and symptoms, such as dry mouth, thirst, weakness, seizures, muscle pain, frequent urination, or fast heartbeat.
If you feel dizzy and faint during the first few days of therapy, lie down and contact your doctor immediately.
Rarely, Hyzaar causes skin rashes, swelling on your lips, tongue, and face, and difficulty breathing. If this occurs, contact your doctor immediately.
If you have liver disease, Hyzaar may worsen your condition. Contact your doctor if you experience yellowing of your eyes and skin or pain in the upper right area of your stomach.
Who should not take Hyzaar?
Do not take Hyzaar if you are allergic to any component of this drug, if you are sensitive to sulfa drugs, or if you are unable to urinate.What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Hyzaar?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Hyzaar. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have kidney or liver disease, gout (a complex form of arthritis characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain and redness in the joints), diabetes, high cholesterol, a history of allergies or asthma, or lupus (disease that affects the immune system). Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.High Blood Pressure
Adults: Hyzaar comes in three strengths: 50/12.5 mg (50 milligrams of losartan and 12.5 mg of hydrochlorothiazide), 100/12.5 mg, and 100/25 mg. The usual starting dose is one 50/12.5 mg tablet per day.
If your blood pressure does not respond to this dose after about three weeks, your doctor may increase the dose as appropriate.
How should I take Hyzaar?
Take Hyzaar exactly as prescribed. It can be taken with or without food.What should I avoid while taking Hyzaar?
Hyzaar may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Use alcohol cautiously as it may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking Hyzaar.Use caution when rising from a sitting or lying position. Hyzaar may cause low blood pressure and you may feel lightheaded or faint.
Avoid becoming dehydrated while taking Hyzaar (excessive sweating, severe diarrhea, or vomiting can dehydrate you) as this could cause your blood pressure to drop too low.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Hyzaar?
If Hyzaar is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Hyzaar with the following: other blood pressure medications, cholestyramine, colestipol, corticosteroids such as prednisone, diuretics (water pills such as spironolactone, triamterene, and amiloride), fluconazole, insulin, lithium, morphine, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, norepinephrine, potassium supplements, rifampin, salt substitutes containing potassium, and muscle relaxants.What are the possible side effects of Hyzaar?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: dizziness, upper respiratory tract infections, stuffy nose, fast heartbeat, back pain, rash
Can I receive Hyzaar if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
When used in the second or third trimester of pregnancy, Hyzaar can cause injury or even death to the unborn baby. Stop taking Hyzaar as soon as you know you are pregnant. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, tell your doctor immediately. Do not breastfeed while taking Hyzaar.What should I do if I miss a dose of Hyzaar?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Hyzaar?
Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
