Losartan+Amlodipine

When should one not use Losartan+Amlodipine

• If you are allergic to amlodipine, losartan or any other ingredients of Losartan+Amlodipine.
• If you are pregnant or a nursing mother.

Common side effects of this drug are:

• Nausea
• Headache
• Edema
• Fatigue
• Flushing
• Dizziness
• Abdominal pain
• Heartburn
• Body pain
• Diarrhoea

Other General Warnings

• You experience allergic episodes that include swelling after consuming this medicine.
• You have a problem with your kidney or liver function.
• You have been told that you have abnormal levels of salt or electrolytes, or recently had excessive diarrhoea and vomiting.
• You are taking potassium supplements or medications that can increase potassium levels in the body.
• You have any other health conditions or take medicines or supplements.
• You are pregnant or may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately.

How Does It Work?

• Losartan lowers blood pressure by blocking the hormone angiotensin II, which prevents blood vessels from tightening and signals the kidneys to retain less salt and water, thereby helping vessels relax, reduce fluid, and ease strain on the heart.
• Amlodipine relaxes and widens blood vessels by blocking calcium entry into the smooth muscle cells. This helps lower blood pressure and eases the workload on your heart by improving blood flow.

Interactions with other medicines

• Other blood pressure-lowering medicines should be used carefully with Losartan+Amlodipine as it can lead to an excessive drop in blood pressure.
• Medicines that increase potassium levels in the body, including certain water pills (such as spironolactone and amiloride) and potassium supplements, should be used with caution.
• Medicines containing lithium, used for mental disorders, if taken along with other medications, can lead to increased levels of lithium in the body and increase the chances of getting side effects. Regular monitoring of lithium levels in the body is advised.
• The blood pressure-lowering effect of Losartan+Amlodipine can be reduced by concomitant use of painkillers and anti-inflammatory medicines.
• Aliskiren, a medication used to treat high blood pressure, can lead to reduced blood pressure, faintness, loss of consciousness, and affect kidney function if taken along with other medications. Hence, it should be avoided.

Overdose

Missed a Dose

• If you miss any dose of Losartan+Amlodipine, take it as soon as you remember with food. However, if it is time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
• Blood pressure medications should be taken regularly to prevent undesirable events that can occur due to high blood pressure if not taken on time.