losartan
Losartan is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high blood pressure. Losartan is also used to decrease the risk of stroke in people who have high blood pressure and a heart condition called left ventricular hypertrophy (enlargement of the walls of the left side of the heart). Losartan may not decrease the risk of stroke in African Americans who have these conditions. This medication is also used to treat kidney disease in people who have type 2 diabetes (condition in which the body does not use insulin normally and therefore cannot control the amount of sugar in the blood) and high blood pressure. Losartan is in a class of medications called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. It works by blocking the action of certain natural substances that tighten the blood vessels, allowing the blood to flow more smoothly and the heart to pump more efficiently. High blood pressure is a common condition, and when not treated it can cause damage to the brain, heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and other parts of the body. Damage to these organs may cause heart disease, a heart attack, heart failure, stroke, kidney failure, loss of vision, and other problems. In addition to taking medication, making lifestyle changes will also help to control your blood pressure. These changes include eating a diet that is low in fat and salt, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising at least 30 minutes most days, not smoking, and using alcohol in moderation.
Full drug information on MedlinePlus →This is general information, not medical advice. Pregnancy and breastfeeding decisions should always be made with your healthcare provider.
Can taking losartan affect fertility or make it harder to get pregnant?
According to the fact sheet, it is not known whether losartan can make it harder to become pregnant. One animal study did not find effects on fertility, but human data are lacking. Anyone with questions about fertility while taking losartan should talk with their healthcare provider.
Does taking losartan increase the risk of miscarriage?
Miscarriage can occur in any pregnancy for many reasons. The fact sheet states that it is not known whether losartan increases the chance of miscarriage. Concerns about pregnancy loss should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Does taking losartan increase the risk of birth defects?
The fact sheet notes that losartan has not been well studied in pregnancy, and it is not known whether first-trimester use increases the chance of birth defects. A small study of 20 ARB-exposed pregnancies reported one infant with craniosynostosis and one with inguinal hernia, but it is unclear whether the medication or other factors (such as maternal diabetes) contributed. Use in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters can lead to low amniotic fluid, which itself can cause birth defects. Anyone with questions should review their situation with their healthcare provider.
Can taking losartan during pregnancy cause other pregnancy-related complications?
The fact sheet describes that use in the 2nd and/or 3rd trimester can cause low amniotic fluid (oligohydramnios), which has been linked to poor lung and skull development, joint contractures, growth restriction, the need for early delivery, and in some cases fetal demise. Low blood pressure, kidney disease, and kidney failure have also been reported in exposed babies, with some infant deaths. Because of these concerns, the fact sheet notes it is usually recommended that pregnant individuals stop losartan under their provider's guidance, and any changes should be discussed with the healthcare provider.
Can taking losartan during pregnancy affect the child's brain development, learning, or behavior?
The fact sheet states that studies have not been done to see if losartan can cause behavior or learning issues for the child. There are also no prenatal tests available to predict future behavior or learning outcomes. Questions about long-term child development should be discussed with a healthcare provider.
Is it safe to breastfeed while taking losartan?
The fact sheet notes that losartan has not been studied in humans during breastfeeding, but animal studies suggest it passes into milk and could affect the nursing baby's kidneys. The product label recommends that breastfeeding individuals not use this medication, although in some situations the benefits may outweigh the possible risks. This decision should be made together with the healthcare provider.
Source: MotherToBaby Fact Sheet
losartan