WARNING

Inform your doctor if you are expecting a child or if you intend to do so. If you are expecting, do not take Hyzaar. Hyzaar should be stopped and your doctor should be contacted right away if you become pregnant while taking Hyzaar. When taken in the final six months of pregnancy, Hyzaar can kill the fetus or seriously harm it.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Hyzaar is a medication that combines two active ingredients: losartan and hydrochlorothiazide. It is primarily prescribed to treat hypertension, also known as high blood pressure. High blood pressure can increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular problems.

Losartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), which works by blocking the action of a hormone called angiotensin II. This hormone causes blood vessels to narrow, leading to an increase in blood pressure. By blocking the effects of angiotensin II, losartan helps to relax and widen the blood vessels, resulting in a decrease in blood pressure.

Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic that works by increasing the excretion of sodium and water from the body. This action helps to reduce the volume of blood circulating through the blood vessels, which in turn lowers blood pressure.

How should this medicine be used?

When prescribed, Hyzaar is typically used as a long-term treatment for hypertension. The dosage and frequency of use will depend on various factors such as the patient’s age, medical condition, and response to the medication. It is important to follow the instructions provided by the healthcare professional who prescribed the medication. Hyzaar is usually taken orally with or without food, and it should be swallowed whole with a glass of water.

It’s crucial to take Hyzaar regularly and as prescribed to effectively control blood pressure. Missing doses or stopping the medication abruptly without consulting a healthcare professional may lead to an increase in blood pressure and potential health risks. If any concerns or questions arise regarding the use of Hyzaar, it’s best to consult a healthcare provider for guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

Hyzaar is primarily prescribed for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure) and its associated cardiovascular risks. However, there are some off-label uses or alternative indications for Hyzaar that may be considered by healthcare professionals. It’s important to note that off-label use should only be done under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare provider. Some potential off-label uses of Hyzaar may include:

• Diabetic nephropathy: Hyzaar may be prescribed to patients with type 2 diabetes who have proteinuria (excessive protein in the urine) to help slow down the progression of kidney damage.
• Heart failure: In some cases, Hyzaar may be prescribed to manage heart failure, especially in patients who cannot tolerate angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) alone.
• Left ventricular hypertrophy: Hyzaar may be used to treat left ventricular hypertrophy, a condition in which the muscle wall of the heart’s main pumping chamber thickens. It can be an indication of an increased risk of cardiovascular events.

It’s important to remember that the off-label use of any medication should only be done after careful consideration by a healthcare professional, who will assess the potential benefits and risks on an individual basis.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding precautions, here are some important considerations when using Hyzaar:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any known allergies to losartan, hydrochlorothiazide, or any other medications.
• Medical conditions: Before taking Hyzaar, disclose your complete medical history to your healthcare provider, especially if you have a history of kidney problems, liver disease, electrolyte imbalances, gout, lupus, or diabetes.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Hyzaar should not be used during pregnancy, as it may harm the fetus. It is also not recommended during breastfeeding, as it may pass into breast milk and potentially harm the nursing infant. Consult your healthcare provider for alternative medications if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with Hyzaar. Certain medications, such as potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and lithium, may interact with Hyzaar and require dosage adjustments or monitoring.
• Side effects: Hyzaar may cause side effects such as dizziness, fatigue, headache, cough, gastrointestinal disturbances, and electrolyte imbalances. If you experience any persistent or severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

When taking Hyzaar, there are no specific dietary restrictions or instructions that need to be followed. However, it is generally recommended to maintain a healthy, balanced diet that is low in sodium (salt) and rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. This type of diet can help support overall cardiovascular health and complement the effects of Hyzaar in managing hypertension.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Hyzaar, it is important to take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, it is advised to skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. It is not recommended to take a double dose to make up for the missed one. Taking the medication consistently and as prescribed is crucial for its effectiveness in controlling blood pressure.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Hyzaar, like any medication, can cause side effects. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary from person to person. Some common side effects of Hyzaar include:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fatigue or tiredness
• Headache
• Cough
• Stomach pain or discomfort
• Diarrhea
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle cramps or weakness
• Back pain
• Blurred vision
• Increased urination

It’s important to note that these are not all the possible side effects of Hyzaar. Serious side effects are rare but can occur. If you experience any of the following serious side effects, seek immediate medical attention:

• Signs of an allergic reaction (e.g., rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, difficulty breathing)
• Signs of electrolyte imbalance (e.g., severe or persistent vomiting, muscle cramps, weakness, irregular heartbeat)
• Signs of kidney problems (e.g., decreased urination, swelling in the feet or ankles)
• Signs of liver problems (e.g., yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, persistent nausea or vomiting, abdominal pain)
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Chest pain or pounding heartbeat
• Signs of a serious allergic reaction (e.g., skin rash, hives, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat)

It’s essential to report any side effects or concerns to your healthcare provider. They can provide further guidance, evaluate your symptoms, and determine if any adjustments to your medication regimen are necessary.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

When it comes to storage and disposal of Hyzaar, here are some important considerations:

• Storage: Hyzaar should be stored at room temperature, away from excessive heat, moisture, and light. Follow the specific storage instructions provided by the manufacturer or your pharmacist.
• Keep out of reach of children: Store Hyzaar in a secure location out of the reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Do not use expired medication: Check the expiration date on the packaging and do not use Hyzaar if it has expired. Expired medications may be less effective or potentially harmful.
• Disposal: If you have unused or expired Hyzaar tablets, do not dispose of them in the regular household trash or flush them down the toilet unless specifically instructed to do so. Instead, consult your local pharmacy or healthcare provider for guidance on proper medication disposal methods in your area. They can provide information on medication take-back programs or other safe disposal options.

In case of emergency/overdose

• In case of a suspected overdose, call your local emergency helpline or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Symptoms of an overdose may include extreme dizziness, fainting, rapid or irregular heartbeat, severe weakness, or difficulty breathing.
• When seeking medical help, it’s important to bring the medication packaging or any remaining tablets with you to assist healthcare professionals in determining the appropriate treatment.

What other information should I know?

Other important information to be aware of:

• Regular monitoring: Your healthcare provider may schedule regular check-ups to monitor your blood pressure and evaluate your response to Hyzaar. Follow their instructions and attend all recommended appointments.
• Medication interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with Hyzaar. Certain medications, such as potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and lithium, may interact with Hyzaar. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting or stopping any medications or supplements while taking Hyzaar.
• Lifestyle modifications: Hyzaar is typically prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes lifestyle modifications. These may include dietary changes (such as reducing sodium intake), regular exercise, weight management, smoking cessation, and stress reduction. Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for a healthy lifestyle.
• Compliance with medication: It’s important to take Hyzaar as prescribed by your healthcare provider and to follow the recommended dosage instructions. Do not stop taking the medication without consulting your healthcare provider, even if you start to feel better. Stopping Hyzaar abruptly may cause a sudden increase in blood pressure.

Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about the storage, disposal, emergency procedures, or any other information related to Hyzaar. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation and needs.

Please note that the information provided here is for general knowledge and should not replace the specific instructions and advice given by your healthcare provider.