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what type of drug is losartan

Losartan is a prescription blood pressure medicine called an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), also known as an angiotensin II receptor antagonist.

What type of drug is losartan?

  • Therapeutic class: Angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB).
  • System: Acts on the renin–angiotensin system, which helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance.
  • Main uses:
    • Treats high blood pressure (hypertension).
* Helps protect kidneys in people with type 2 diabetes and protein in the urine (diabetic nephropathy).
* Lowers the risk of stroke in some people with high blood pressure and heart enlargement.

In simple terms, losartan is a heart and blood‑pressure medicine that blocks the effects of angiotensin II, a hormone that normally tightens blood vessels, so your vessels relax and pressure goes down.

Quick Scoop

  • Drug type: ARB (angiotensin II receptor blocker).
  • Form: Oral tablet, often taken once daily.
  • Common brand: Cozaar (and generics).
  • Notable cautions:
    • Not safe in pregnancy.
* Can raise potassium and affect kidney function, so blood tests are often monitored.

If this question is about your own prescription, a pharmacist or doctor can confirm exactly why it was chosen for you and how long you should stay on it. Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.