Hyzaar

(Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide)

Hyzaar is a combination antihypertensive, and each component lowers blood pressure through different mechanisms. The active ingredients in this medication are losartan potassium and hydrochlorothiazide.

Losartan potassium belongs to a class of medications known as angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). These medications work by blocking the actions of a chemical in the body known as angiotensin II. When it acts on blood vessels, it causes them to constrict and narrow in size, which can raise blood pressure. Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) belongs to a class known as thiazide diuretics. Diuretics increase water and electrolyte loss, both of which, at high levels in the body, increase blood pressure.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Hyzaar. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Hyzaar:

• Hyzaar should be used exactly as prescribed. The dose you take will be decided on by your doctor, and they may choose to adjust it over time based on your response.
• Hyzaar is typically taken once daily with or without food at the same time every day.
• While on Hyzaar, you may need to go in for blood work occasionally to ensure you do not have any electrolyte imbalances or other changes. HCTZ is a water pill and increases water and electrolyte loss. Calcium, sodium, magnesium, and potassium levels may be monitored alongside other markers. HCTZ can also alter glucose tolerance and raise cholesterol and triglycerides, so your doctor may monitor these as well.
• As a thiazide, HCTZ can increase your sensitivity to the sun. While using Hyzaar, a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 should be used on a daily basis.
• Often, in patients with high blood pressure, you may have been instructed to opt for salt substitutes that do not contain sodium to further lower blood pressure. However, these often contain potassium, which Hyzaar can also increase. Do not use both together.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

The most common side effects of Hyzaar include:

• Dizziness
• Upper respiratory tract infections
• Cough
• Back pain
• Chest pain

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Hyzaar. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Signs of low blood pressure or hypotension, such as fainting and lightheadedness.
• High potassium levels due to losartan. Symptoms include nausea, muscle weakness, and an irregular heartbeat.
• Low electrolyte levels due to HCTZ. Symptoms can include fatigue, muscle pain or cramps, less urination than usual, nausea, or vomiting.
• Signs of kidney problems such as unexplained weight gain, unusual fatigue, or swelling of the extremities, such as legs, arms, and hands.
• Vision changes or eye pain. These could be signs of glaucoma or another eye condition that needs to be followed up on.
• Sunburn or other skin reactions.
• Signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as hives, skin rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, eyes, or tongue

These are not all of the possible side effects of Hyzaar. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Hyzaar, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

• Any excessive fluid loss, especially if you have severe vomiting, diarrhea, excessive sweating, or poor fluid intake.
• Liver problems
• Kidney problems
• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
• Diabetes
• Gout
• History of skin cancer
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed

Boxed Warning

• Hyzaar should not be used in pregnancy due to the risk of fetal harm and birth defects in the baby. If you become pregnant while using Hyzaar, discontinue use immediately.

Do not use Hyzaar if you have:

• If you have an allergy to losartan, hydrochlorothiazide, or any of the other ingredients in Hyzaar.
• Anuria or no urine output
• Diabetes and are using aliskiren

It can take a few weeks of regular use to see the full effects of Hyzaar on your blood pressure. During this time, you may not feel it working, but your blood pressure will be monitored to ensure Hyzaar is effective.

When Hyzaar is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Potassium-sparing diuretics
• Potassium supplements or salt substitutes
• Lithium
• NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin, ketorolac, or diclofenac.
• ACE inhibitors
• ARBs
• Aliskiren
• Antidiabetic medications
• Insulin
• Cholestyramine
• Colestipol resins
• Barbiturates
• Narcotics
• Corticosteroids

Hyzaar tablets are available in the following strengths:

• 50/12.5 mg
• 100/12.5 mg
• 100/25 mg

Hyzaar should be stored at room temperature, away from light and heat, and out of reach of children.

Hyzaar is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Organon.

Yes, there is a generic available for the brand-name Hyzaar.

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing medications while taking Hyzaar.

Hyzaar can cause harm to the unborn baby. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Hyzaar may pass into the breast milk and cause harm to your breastfed baby. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.