Resert 25mg

Description

Product Overview: Resert 25mg (Losartan Potassium 25mg)

What it is: Resert 25mg contains Losartan Potassium, a medication belonging to the class of drugs known as Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs). It works by selectively blocking the action of angiotensin II, a potent natural substance in the body that causes blood vessels to narrow. By blocking this action, Losartan allows blood vessels to relax and widen, which lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow.

Therapeutic Class: Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB), Antihypertensive.

Mechanism of Action: Losartan primarily acts by blocking the binding of angiotensin II to its specific receptors (AT1 receptors) found on various cells, including those in blood vessels, the heart, and the kidneys. By preventing angiotensin II from binding to these receptors, Losartan leads to:

• Vasodilation: Relaxation and widening of blood vessels, which reduces peripheral resistance and consequently lowers blood pressure.
• Reduced Aldosterone Secretion: Angiotensin II also stimulates the release of aldosterone, a hormone that promotes sodium and water retention. By blocking angiotensin II, Losartan indirectly reduces aldosterone’s effects, contributing to fluid excretion and blood pressure reduction.
• Organ Protection: Beyond blood pressure control, Losartan has been shown to protect target organs, particularly the kidneys, in certain patient populations.

Indications (Uses): Resert 25mg is primarily used for:

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): It is a common first-line treatment for essential hypertension, used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents. By effectively lowering blood pressure, it reduces the risk of serious complications such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney damage.
• Diabetic Nephropathy: In patients with type 2 diabetes and hypertension, Losartan is specifically indicated to slow the progression of kidney disease (nephropathy) and reduce the risk of end-stage renal disease.
• Stroke Risk Reduction: In hypertensive patients with Left Ventricular Hypertrophy (LVH) – an enlargement of the heart’s main pumping chamber – Losartan has been shown to reduce the risk of stroke.
• Heart Failure: While often used in combination, Losartan can be used in patients with heart failure who cannot tolerate ACE inhibitors, to improve symptoms and outcomes by reducing the workload on the heart.

Dosage and Administration: The dosage of Resert 25mg will be determined by your doctor based on your specific condition, blood pressure response, and any underlying medical conditions.

• For Hypertension: A typical starting dose for adults is 50 mg once daily. However, for patients with intravascular volume depletion (e.g., those on high-dose diuretics), a lower starting dose of 25 mg once daily is often recommended. The dose can be increased up to 100 mg per day, as a single dose or in two divided doses, if needed.
• For Diabetic Nephropathy: The initial dose is usually 50 mg once daily, which can be increased to 100 mg once daily depending on blood pressure response.
• Administration: Resert 25mg can be taken with or without food. It’s generally advised to take it at the same time each day for consistent effects.
• Crucial: Always follow your doctor’s instructions precisely regarding dosage and duration. Do not stop taking Resert 25mg suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to a rapid increase in blood pressure or worsening of your condition.

Side Effects:

While generally well-tolerated, Resert 25mg can cause side effects.

Common Side Effects (usually mild and may diminish over time):

• Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Especially when standing up quickly (orthostatic hypotension), due to the blood pressure-lowering effect. This is more likely when starting the medication or after a dose increase.
• Headache.
• Fatigue or Weakness (Asthenia).
• Diarrhea.
• Cough: While ACE inhibitors are notorious for causing a dry cough, ARBs like Losartan generally have a lower incidence of this side effect. However, it can still occur.
• Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (e.g., cold symptoms, nasal congestion, sore throat).
• Back Pain, Muscle Pain.
• Hyperkalemia (High Potassium Levels): This is a key side effect because ARBs can cause potassium retention. Symptoms can include muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, or numbness/tingling. Regular blood tests are important to monitor potassium levels.
• Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Glucose Level): Particularly in diabetic patients.
• Anemia (low red blood cell count).
• Increased Blood Urea and Serum Creatinine: Indicators of kidney function that need monitoring.
• Chest pain.
• Sleep disorders.

Serious or Less Common Side Effects (seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these):

• Angioedema: A rare but serious allergic reaction characterized by rapid swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, which can cause difficulty breathing or swallowing. This is a medical emergency.
• Severe Hypotension (Very Low Blood Pressure): Leading to fainting, severe dizziness, or confusion.
• Kidney Failure or Worsening Kidney Function: Especially in individuals with pre-existing kidney problems or bilateral renal artery stenosis. Symptoms might include decreased urine output, swelling of the feet/ankles, or unusual tiredness.
• Liver Problems (Hepatitis): Very rare, but symptoms like yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or persistent nausea/vomiting may indicate liver issues.
• Pancreatitis: Severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
• Severe Electrolyte Disturbances: Leading to severe muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, or seizures.
• Cardiac Arrhythmias (Irregular Heartbeat), Angina Pectoris (Chest Pain).

Precautions:

Before taking Resert 25mg, it is crucial to inform your doctor about your complete medical history and all medications you are currently taking.

• Allergies: Do not take Resert 25mg if you have a known allergy to Losartan Potassium or any other component of the drug. A history of angioedema related to ACE inhibitor therapy is also a contraindication.
• Pregnancy: Resert 25mg (and other ARBs) is contraindicated during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, as it can cause serious harm or death to the developing fetus. Inform your doctor immediately if you become pregnant while on this medication.
• Breastfeeding: Losartan is excreted in breast milk. It is generally not recommended during breastfeeding. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
• Kidney Impairment: Use with caution. The starting dose may be lower for patients with renal impairment (e.g., CrCl < 20 mL/min, starting at 25 mg once daily). It is contraindicated in severe renal impairment. Regular monitoring of kidney function (creatinine, GFR) and potassium levels is essential.
• Liver Impairment: Use with caution. It is contraindicated in severe hepatic impairment.
• Diabetes: Close monitoring of blood glucose levels is necessary as Losartan can affect them. Concomitant use with aliskiren (another blood pressure medication) is contraindicated in patients with diabetes and renal impairment (GFR < 60 mL/min).
• Volume Depletion: Patients who are volume-depleted (e.g., due to high-dose diuretics, excessive vomiting, or diarrhea) are at higher risk of experiencing significant low blood pressure (hypotension) with the first dose. This condition should be corrected before starting Losartan, or a lower initial dose (25 mg) should be used.
• Bilateral Renal Artery Stenosis, Aortic or Mitral Stenosis: Use with caution, as ARBs can worsen kidney function in these conditions.
• Electrolyte Monitoring: Regular blood tests to monitor potassium, sodium, and other electrolyte levels are crucial, especially when initiating treatment or changing doses.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Resert 25mg may cause dizziness or sleep disorders, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Exercise caution until you know how the medication affects you.
• Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol can enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect and increase dizziness or drowsiness. It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Resert.
• Dietary Potassium: Avoid potassium supplements, potassium-containing salt substitutes, or excessive intake of potassium-rich foods unless specifically advised by your doctor, due to the risk of hyperkalemia.
• Other Medications: Inform your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, herbal, and dietary supplements you are taking. Significant interactions can occur with:
  • Aliskiren: Contraindicated in patients with diabetes and renal impairment due to increased risk of nephrotoxicity, hyperkalemia, and hypotension.
  • NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs – e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen): Can reduce the blood pressure-lowering effect and increase the risk of kidney problems and hyperkalemia.
  • Potassium-Sparing Diuretics (e.g., amiloride, triamterene, spironolactone), Potassium Supplements, or Potassium-Containing Salt Substitutes: Increased risk of severe hyperkalemia.
  • Lithium: May increase serum lithium levels and toxicity. Lithium levels must be closely monitored.
  • Fluconazole and Rifampicin: May affect Losartan plasma levels.
• Surgery: Inform your surgeon or anesthesiologist that you are taking Resert 25mg before any surgical procedures.

Prescriptions:

Resert 25mg is a prescription-only medication. It should only be taken under the guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.

When prescribing Resert 25mg, your doctor will:

• Assess your blood pressure, medical history, and any underlying conditions.
• Consider all other medications you are currently taking to avoid potential drug interactions.
• Determine the appropriate starting dose and may adjust it based on your blood pressure response and tolerance.
• Provide detailed instructions on how to take the medication, including any dietary considerations.
• Schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your blood pressure, kidney function, and electrolyte levels (especially potassium).

It is essential to:

• Take the medication exactly as prescribed. Do not miss doses, double doses, or stop the medication suddenly without consulting your doctor.
• Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments and blood tests.
• Report any new or worsening symptoms or side effects to your doctor promptly.
• Adhere to any lifestyle modifications (e.g., healthy diet, regular exercise, limiting sodium intake) advised by your doctor, as these are crucial for managing high blood pressure effectively.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice regarding Resert 25mg or any other medication.