Losartan‑Hydrochlorothiazide is a pill many doctors prescribe for high blood pressure. It combines an ARB (losartan) that relaxes blood vessels with a thiazide diuretic (hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ) that helps your body get rid of extra salt and water. Together they lower blood pressure more effectively than either drug alone for a lot of people.
This combo helps reduce the workload on your heart and can lower the risk of stroke or heart attack when used correctly with lifestyle changes. If your doctor switched you to the combo pill, it’s usually to simplify treatment and improve control without adding more pills to your routine.
Take the pill once daily, usually in the morning. Dosage varies: common strengths pair losartan 50 mg with HCTZ 12.5 mg or losartan 100 mg with HCTZ 25 mg. Your doctor will pick a dose based on your blood pressure, kidney function, and other medicines you take. If you forget a dose, take it when you remember the same day; skip it if it’s almost time for the next dose. Don’t double up.
Drink water regularly unless your doctor tells you otherwise. Because HCTZ can make you pee more, taking it in the morning helps avoid waking at night. If you feel dizzy when standing, sit down and rise slowly—this medicine can lower blood pressure too much in some people.
Minor side effects include dizziness, lightheadedness, mild dehydration, and increased urination. Losartan can sometimes raise potassium levels, while HCTZ can lower potassium—your doctor checks blood tests to keep electrolytes balanced. More serious warning signs: fainting, very light-headed feeling, rapid heartbeat, muscle weakness, swelling of face or throat, or signs of severe allergic reaction. If any of these happen, get medical help right away.
Other red flags: decreased urine output, extreme fatigue, or cough that’s new and persistent. If pregnant or planning pregnancy, stop this medicine and call your provider—ARBs can harm a fetus.
Watch out for interactions. NSAIDs (like ibuprofen), some blood pressure drugs, potassium supplements, and lithium can interact. Tell your pharmacist about every prescription and over‑the‑counter drug you use. Your doctor will likely order periodic blood tests for kidney function, electrolytes, and blood pressure checks to keep things safe.
Simple tips: take the same time every day, keep a blood pressure log, avoid excessive alcohol, and keep hydrated. If you get lightheaded after the first few doses, it often settles after a few days but report severe or persistent symptoms. Ask your provider about lifestyle steps—salt reduction, regular activity, and weight management—that enhance how well this medicine works.
If you want more detail—like dose changes, switching off the drug, or managing side effects—bring your questions to your doctor or pharmacist. They can tailor advice to your health history and make sure the treatment fits your life.
