Losartan + Chlorthalidone

Losartan+Chlorthalidone is used by many people for lowering blood pressure. This medicine generally has very few side effects. In addition to lowering blood pressure, it also protects kidney function in high blood pressure patients having diabetes and impaired kidney function (diabetic nephropathy). It is also used to treat chronic heart failure when treatment with other medicines fails to prove effective. It also decreases the risk of stroke in patients who are hypertensive and have thicker left ventricle (heart chamber).

Take Losartan+Chlorthalidone exactly as per your doctor’s advice. Losartan+Chlorthalidone tablets are meant for oral intake. Swallow the tablet with water; do not crush or chew. You can take it with or without food. The dose will depend on the condition you are being treated for. It is recommended that you take your first dose before bedtime, as it can make you dizzy. After taking the first dose, you can take it at any time of the day but try to take it at the same time each day.

The blood pressure lowering effect of Losartan+Chlorthalidone can be seen after about 6 hours of taking it. The effect of the medicine lasts for 24 hours. You may take about 3-6 weeks to see the full benefits of this medicine

Yes, the use of Losartan+Chlorthalidone can make you feel dizzy. This may occur when you suddenly get up from a lying or sitting position. To lower the chance of feeling dizzy or passing out, rise slowly if you have been sitting or lying down.

Lifestyle changes play a major role in keeping you healthy if you are taking Losartan+Chlorthalidone. Avoid taking excess salt in your diet and find ways to reduce or manage stress in your life. Practice yoga or meditation or take up a hobby. Ensure that you have a sound sleep every night as this also helps to reduce stress levels and helps to keep your blood pressure normal. Stop smoking and alcohol consumption as this helps in lowering your blood pressure and preventing heart problems. Exercise regularly and take a balanced diet that includes whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables and fat-free products. Consult your doctor if you need any further guidance to get the maximum benefit of Losartan+Chlorthalidone and to keep yourself healthy.

Losartan+Chlorthalidone may impair kidney function in patients having severe heart failure, chronic kidney disease or narrow or blocked blood vessels that lead to kidney damage (renal artery stenosis). Its use may affect the kidney function in patients who have experienced severe fluid loss or dehydration due to vomiting, diarrhea or excessive use of diuretics. Therefore, Losartan+Chlorthalidone should be used cautiously in these patients and their kidney function should be regularly monitored.

No, Losartan+Chlorthalidone does not cause weight gain. However, if your kidney function deteriorates then your body may swell due to accumulation of water, causing weight gain. Call your doctor if you experience unexplained weight gain or swelling in your feet, ankles or hands.

Taking Losartan+Chlorthalidone during the last 6 months of pregnancy can cause serious harm or even death of the unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Do not take Losartan+Chlorthalidone if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant while taking Losartan+Chlorthalidone, stop taking Losartan+Chlorthalidone and call your doctor immediately.

You may have to take Losartan+Chlorthalidone for a long term, even life long. Losartan+Chlorthalidone controls blood pressure but does not cure it. Talk to your doctor in case you have any concerns regarding Losartan+Chlorthalidone, but do not stop taking it without consulting the doctor.

Long-term use of Losartan+Chlorthalidone is generally considered to be safe. However, in some cases, long-term use of Losartan+Chlorthalidone may adversely affect the functioning of the kidneys. Therefore, the doctor may prescribe regular blood tests to keep a track of how well the kidneys are working.