IMPORTANT COZAAR WARNING:

Why is Cozaar prescribed?

Losartan (Cozaar) is used to treat high blood pressure. Cozaar blocks the action of certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly.

Cozaar is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more Cozaar information.

How should Cozaar be used?

Losartan (Cozaar) comes as a tablet to take by mouth. Cozaar is usually taken once or twice a day. Follow the Cozaar directions on your Cozaar prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take losartan (Cozaar) exactly as directed. Do not take more or less Cozaar or take Cozaar more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Losartan (Cozaar) controls high blood pressure but does not cure it. Continue to take losartan (Cozaar) even if you feel well. Do not stop taking losartan (Cozaar) without talking to your doctor.

What special Cozaar precautions should I follow?

Before taking losartan (Cozaar),

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to losartan (Cozaar) or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially diuretics (water pills), lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid), other medications for high blood pressure, potassium supplements, and vitamins.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart or kidney disease or diabetes.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking losartan (Cozaar)

What special Cozaar dietary instructions should I follow?

Talk to your doctor before using salt substitutes containing potassium. If your doctor prescribes a low-salt or low-sodium diet, follow these directions carefully.

What should I do if I forget a Cozaar dose?

Take the missed Cozaar dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next Cozaar dose, skip the missed Cozaar dose and continue your regular regular Cozaar dosing schedule. Do not take a double Cozaar dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can Cozaar cause?

Although side effects from losartan (Cozaar) are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these Cozaar symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• dizziness or lightheadedness
• congestion
• cough
• diarrhea
• trouble sleeping
• headache
• muscle aches
• fever
• sore throat

If you experience any of the following Cozaar symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, arms, or legs
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• fainting
• rash

What storage conditions are needed for Cozaar?

Keep Cozaar in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store Cozaar at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any Cozaar that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of Cozaar.

In case of Cozaar emergency/overdose

In case of Cozaar overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

What other information should I know about Cozaar?

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your blood pressure should be checked regularly to determine your response to losartan (Cozaar).

Do not let anyone else take your Cozaar. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your Cozaar prescription.