Combination drug: Hyzaar
Losartan is used alone or in combination with hydrochlorothiazide (Hyzaar®) in the treatment of high blood pressure. It is a type of drug called an angiotensin II receptor antagonist.
Summary of Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
In some cases, an herb or supplement may appear in more than one category, which may seem contradictory. For clarification, read the full article for details about the summarized interactions.
 Check: Other—Before taking any of these supplements or eating any of these foods with your medication, read this article in full for details. | Potassium |
| Depletion or interference | None known |
| Side effect reduction/prevention | None known |
| Supportive interaction | None known |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability | None known |
| Adverse interaction | None known |
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
Interactions with Dietary Supplements
Potassium
Losartan has caused significant increases in blood potassium levels.1 Potassium supplements, potassium-containing salt substitutes (No Salt®, Morton Salt Substitute®, and others), and even high-potassium foods (primarily fruit) should be avoided by those taking losartan, unless directed otherwise by their doctor.
Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds
Food
The intestinal absorption of losartan may be reduced up to 10% if taken with food.2 Although this is a minor reduction, losartan should be taken an hour before or two hours after food for maximum effectiveness.
References
1. Perazella MA. Drug-induced hyperkalemia: Old culprits and new offenders. Am J Med 2000;109:307–14 [review].
2. Sifton DW, ed. Physicians Desk Reference. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 2000, 1769–72.
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2006-09-07
