Precautions and Warnings for Cozaar (Losartan)

Boxed Warning

The use of drugs that act directly on the renin-angiotensin system during pregnancy can cause injury and death to the developing fetus․ When pregnancy is detected‚ COZAAR should be discontinued as soon as possible to avoid potential harm to the fetus․ See WARNINGS‚ Fetal/Neonatal Morbidity and Mortality for more information․

Fetal/Neonatal Morbidity and Mortality

Drugs that act directly on the renin-angiotensin system during pregnancy‚ particularly in the second and third trimesters‚ can lead to harm and potential death to the developing fetus․ The use of COZAAR should be discontinued immediately upon pregnancy detection to avoid adverse effects on the fetus․ Fetal/Neonatal Morbidity and Mortality have been reported with the administration of drugs affecting this system‚ leading to severe outcomes like hypotension‚ renal failure‚ and death․ Oligohydramnios‚ as well as adverse effects on fetal development‚ have been documented following exposure to such medications․ It is crucial to inform pregnant women about the risks associated with COZAAR use and to closely monitor fetal well-being when exposure has occurred․

Hypotension in Volume-Depleted Patients

For patients who are intravascularly volume-depleted‚ such as those under diuretic treatment‚ there is a risk of symptomatic hypotension following the initiation of COZAAR therapy․ It is crucial to address these conditions before administering COZAAR or consider commencing with a lower initial dosage․ Correcting volume depletion prior to using COZAAR is recommended to reduce the likelihood of hypotension occurring․ Special attention is required in patients with depleted volume status to prevent or manage symptoms of low blood pressure effectively․ Close monitoring and individualized dosing strategies may be necessary to ensure the safety and efficacy of COZAAR in these individuals․

Hypersensitivity Reactions

Some individuals may experience hypersensitivity reactions to COZAAR (Losartan) characterized by angioedema‚ which can manifest as swelling of the face‚ lips‚ throat‚ or tongue․ If any signs of such reactions occur‚ immediate medical attention is necessary․ It is important to discontinue the medication and seek medical advice if hypersensitivity symptoms emerge to prevent further complications․ Patients should be informed about the potential for hypersensitivity reactions associated with COZAAR and advised to report any adverse effects promptly to their healthcare provider․

Impaired Hepatic Function

Patients with impaired liver function‚ such as cirrhotic patients‚ may exhibit significantly increased plasma concentrations of losartan․ Therefore‚ it is advisable to consider a lower dosage for individuals with compromised hepatic function to ensure the safe and effective use of COZAAR․ Monitoring of liver function and adjustment of the medication dosage based on pharmacokinetic data are essential measures in patients with impaired hepatic function to minimize the risk of adverse effects and optimize therapeutic outcomes․

Impaired Renal Function

In patients with severe congestive heart failure or those on whom renal function is dependent on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system‚ treatment with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or medications like COZAAR has been linked to potential renal adverse effects such as oliguria‚ progressive azotemia‚ and rare instances of acute renal failure․ Close monitoring and assessment of renal function are crucial when administering COZAAR to individuals with impaired renal function to prevent adverse outcomes and ensure optimal treatment results․

Electrolyte Imbalance

Electrolyte imbalance may occur as a potential adverse reaction to COZAAR (Losartan) treatment․ This can lead to disturbances in the levels of essential minerals in the body‚ impacting various physiological processes․ Close monitoring for signs of electrolyte imbalance‚ such as abnormal blood levels of sodium‚ potassium‚ or chloride‚ is warranted during COZAAR therapy to detect and manage any deviations from normal ranges promptly․ Patients should be advised of the risks associated with electrolyte disturbances and educated on the importance of compliance with monitoring protocols to maintain electrolyte balance․

Drug Interactions

It is vital to be aware of potential drug interactions when taking COZAAR (Losartan) to prevent adverse effects or reduced efficacy․ Some medications may interact with COZAAR‚ affecting its metabolism‚ absorption‚ or excretion․ Interactions with drugs that impact the renin-angiotensin system or blood pressure may lead to additive effects or interference with COZAAR’s mechanism of action․ Patients should inform their healthcare providers about all medications‚ supplements‚ and herbal products they are currently using to evaluate and manage any potential drug interactions effectively․

Adverse Reactions

Discontinue the use of COZAAR immediately if any signs of hypersensitivity reactions‚ such as angioedema‚ are observed․ These reactions can result in swelling of the face‚ lips‚ throat‚ or tongue‚ requiring prompt medical attention․ Patients should be advised of the potential adverse reactions associated with COZAAR‚ and healthcare providers should be informed of any hypersensitivity symptoms experienced to ensure proper management and treatment cessation if necessary․