Cozaar, also known generically as losartan, is a prescription medication that treats hypertension (high blood pressure). It belongs to a family of drugs referred to as angiotensin II receptor antagonists, and works by preventing blood vessels from narrowing, thus lowering blood pressure. Before taking Cozaar, learn about the variety of side effects that accompany it to make sure it's the right course of treatment for you.
Common Side Effects
The common side effects for Cozaar are broken into two categories: common side effects for those with hypertension and common side effects for those with diabetic nephropathy.
For those with hypertension, side effects occur in up to 8 percent of patients taking this medication. These side effects include infections such as the flu or the common cold, nasal congestion, dizziness and back pain.
For those with diabetic nephropathy, the most common side effects occur in 4 to 15 percent of those taking Cozaar. These side effects include diarrhea, anemia, low blood pressure, fatigue, increased potassium levels and weight gain.
Serious Side Effects
While occurring infrequently, if you experience a serious side effect, report it to your doctor immediately. Serious side effects include an unexplained skin rash, blisters, peeling skin, wheezing, dizziness, feeling light-headed, fainting spells and a decrease in the amount of urine you produce. Signs of an allergic reaction are also serious and require you to seek emergency medical attention. These signs include swelling of your lips, face, throat or tongue, finding it difficult to breathe or swallow, itching or the development of hives.
Rare Side Effects
According to eMedTV.com, rare side effects of Cozaar occur in less than 1 percent of those taking this medication. These side effects include anemia, fibromyalgia, depression, panic disorder, constipation, hair loss, decreased sex drive, the development of rhabdomyolysis, a condition causing severe muscle breakdown, gout, anxiety, migraines, vertigo (a spinning sensation), blurred vision, impotence (an inability to achieve or maintain an erection) and the development of a urinary tract infection.
Signs of Overdose
Drugs.com recommends seeking emergency medical attention if you believe you have taken too much of this medication. Signs of an overdose include a fast or slow heartbeat, feeling as though you are going to pass out and dizziness.
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