Losartan Potassium (Cotenace) 50mg Film Coated Tablet 100's

Here is the detailed product description for Losartan Potassium (Cotenace) 50mg Film-Coated Tablet 100's:

Product Description:

Losartan Potassium (Cotenace) 50mg is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist (ARB). It is available in film-coated tablets, with each tablet containing 50mg of losartan potassium. This medication is commonly used for the management of hypertension (high blood pressure) and heart failure. It works by blocking the effects of angiotensin II, a substance in the body that constricts blood vessels. By inhibiting angiotensin II, losartan helps to relax and dilate blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood and reducing blood pressure.

Cotenace is typically used in patients who are unable to tolerate ACE inhibitors or when additional blood pressure control is required in combination with other medications.

Indications:

Losartan Potassium (Cotenace) 50mg is indicated for the treatment of:

1. Hypertension:

   • To reduce high blood pressure in adults and children over 6 years of age.

2. Chronic Heart Failure:

   • For the treatment of chronic heart failure, particularly in patients who are intolerant to ACE inhibitors.

3. Protection Against Kidney Damage in Diabetes (Diabetic Nephropathy):

   • To delay the progression of kidney damage in patients with type 2 diabetes and proteinuria (high levels of protein in the urine).

4. Post-Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack):

   • As part of a long-term treatment plan to help prevent complications after a heart attack (secondary prevention).

Dosage:

The recommended dosages of Losartan Potassium (Cotenace) 50mg can vary depending on the condition being treated:

1. Hypertension:

   • Starting dose: 50mg once daily.

   • Maintenance dose: Typically 50mg to 100mg once daily, depending on the patient's blood pressure response.

   • If additional blood pressure control is required, the dose may be increased to a maximum of 100mg daily.

2. Chronic Heart Failure:

   • Starting dose: 12.5mg once daily (may be increased gradually depending on the patient's tolerance).

   • Maintenance dose: Typically 50mg once daily, but this can be increased up to 100mg daily, as required.

3. Diabetic Nephropathy (Kidney Protection in Type 2 Diabetes):

   • Starting dose: 50mg once daily.

   • The dose may be adjusted based on the individual patient's response.

4. Post-Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack):

   • Starting dose: 12.5mg once daily (for patients with low blood pressure or those who are at risk of hypotension).

   • Maintenance dose: 50mg to 100mg once daily, depending on the patient's condition and response.

Administration:

• Losartan Potassium (Cotenace) 50mg should be taken once daily, with or without food.

• The tablet should be swallowed whole with water.

Side Effects:

Losartan Potassium (Cotenace) 50mg is generally well-tolerated, but like all medications, it can cause side effects. Common side effects include:

• Common side effects:

  • Dizziness or lightheadedness, particularly when standing up (orthostatic hypotension).

  • Fatigue.

  • Nasal congestion or upper respiratory infections.

  • Headache.

• Serious side effects:

  • Hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels): Symptoms can include muscle weakness, fatigue, and heart palpitations.

  • Hypotension (low blood pressure): Especially after the first dose, or in patients who are volume-depleted (e.g., those on diuretics).

  • Kidney problems: Losartan may cause kidney dysfunction or worsen existing kidney problems, which can manifest as changes in urine output, swelling, or unexplained weight gain.

  • Angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat): A rare but serious allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention.

  • Liver problems: Symptoms may include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or pain in the upper right abdomen.

• Other side effects:

  • Digestive issues, such as nausea or diarrhea.

  • Back pain or joint pain.

Contraindications:

Losartan Potassium (Cotenace) 50mg should not be used in the following situations:

1. Hypersensitivity:

   • In patients who are allergic to losartan potassium or any other component of the tablet.

2. Pregnancy:

   • Losartan is contraindicated in pregnancy, especially during the second and third trimesters. It may cause harm to the fetus, including renal failure, low blood pressure, and skull malformations.

3. Breastfeeding:

   • It is advised to avoid using losartan during breastfeeding, as it may pass into breast milk and affect the infant.

4. Severe Liver Disease:

   • Contraindicated in patients with severe liver impairment (e.g., cirrhosis or liver failure) since losartan is metabolized in the liver.

5. Bilateral Renal Artery Stenosis:

   • Contraindicated in patients with bilateral renal artery stenosis (narrowing of the arteries supplying the kidneys), as it may worsen kidney function.

6. Severe Renal Impairment:

   • Use with caution or avoid in patients with severe kidney impairment.

Precautions:

While Losartan Potassium (Cotenace) 50mg is generally safe for most patients, the following precautions should be observed:

1. Kidney Function:

   • Kidney function should be monitored, particularly in patients with existing kidney disease, as losartan may worsen kidney function.

2. Electrolyte Imbalances:

   • Monitor potassium levels regularly, as losartan can cause hyperkalemia (high potassium), which can be dangerous and lead to heart problems.

3. Hypotension:

   • Use with caution in patients who are volume-depleted (e.g., due to diuretics) or those at risk of hypotension. Losartan may cause an excessive drop in blood pressure, especially after the first dose.

4. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

   • Losartan should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential risks to the fetus and infant.

5. Hyperkalemia:

   • Patients should avoid potassium supplements or salt substitutes that contain potassium while taking losartan.

6. Liver Function:

   • Dosage adjustments may be required in patients with mild to moderate liver impairment. Losartan is contraindicated in severe liver disease.

7. Elderly Patients:

   • Use with caution in elderly patients as they are more likely to experience side effects such as dizziness and hypotension.

Summary:

Losartan Potassium (Cotenace) 50mg is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used for treating hypertension, chronic heart failure, diabetic nephropathy, and as part of post-heart attack therapy. It works by relaxing blood vessels to lower blood pressure and reduce strain on the heart.

The typical dose ranges from 50mg to 100mg once daily, depending on the patient's condition. Common side effects include dizziness, fatigue, and headaches, while serious side effects such as hyperkalemia, kidney dysfunction, and angioedema are rare but require immediate medical attention.

Losartan is contraindicated in pregnancy, severe liver disease, and in patients with bilateral renal artery stenosis. Careful monitoring of kidney function, blood pressure, and potassium levels is recommended during treatment.

Please ensure that Losartan Potassium (Cotenace) 50mg is used under the supervision of a healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective treatment.