Cozaar & Potassium

Cozaar -- or losartan potassium -- is a medication used to treat various conditions, such as high blood pressure, congestive heart failure and nephropathy from type 2 diabetes. Cozaar helps reduce constriction of blood vessels, allowing blood to flow easier and the heart to pump more efficiently, according to the National Institutes of Health.

Potassium and Blood Pressure

For most healthy individuals, a high-potassium diet is a way to help prevent the development of high blood pressure. However, too much potassium in patients with medical conditions who are taking cozaar may be harmful. For this reason, your doctor may recommend avoiding potassium supplements to prevent high levels of potassium in the blood.

Dietary Recommendations

Cozaar is an oral medication that should be taken with food. Your doctor may also recommend following a low-sodium diet to help control your blood pressure. To reduce your sodium intake, avoid salting foods at mealtimes and limit high-sodium foods, such as cured, canned, processed foods, stocks and certain frozen foods. According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2010, a low-sodium diet consists of about 2,300 mg sodium per day. Since salt intake can add up quickly, consume foods that are naturally low in sodium, such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean meats, low-fat dairy and healthy fats. Prepare more foods at home, and focus on fresh ingredients. If you are eating out, ask that salt not be added to your food or for a list of low-sodium entree options, if available. Be aware that some salt substitutes contain potassium and should be avoided when you are taking Cozaar.

Side Effects and Food Interactions

Cozaar may cause side effects such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, muscle cramps, heartburn and dizziness. Consult your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they are severe or persistent. When taking Cozaar, avoid natural licorice, which can work against the action of your anti-hypertensive medication. Also, use caution when eating grapefruit and related citrus fruits such as oranges, tangelos, minneolas, pummelos and other types of oranges, which can interact with Cozaar.

Considerations

If your doctor recommends eating a low-sodium diet, follow it consistently. For safety, follow dosage instructions and talk to your doctor about your diet and any other medications, vitamins, minerals, supplements or herbs you may be taking to prevent interactions.