Uses for Cozaar

Cozaar is in a group of drugs called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. It keeps blood vessels from narrowing, which lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow and helps the kidneys to eliminate extra fluid.

Cozaar is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is sometimes given together with other blood pressure medications.

This drug is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and to help protect the kidneys from damage due to diabetes. It is also used to lower the risk of strokes in patients with high blood pressure and an enlarged heart. This drug works by blocking the hormone angiotensin thereby relaxing blood vessels, causing them to widen. High blood pressure reduction helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems.

How should I take Cozaar?

Take Cozaar exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.

You may take Cozaar with or without food.

To be sure Cozaar is helping your condition, your blood pressure will need to be checked on a regular basis. Do not miss any scheduled appointments.

It may take 3 to 6 weeks of using this medicine before your blood pressure is under control. For best results, keep using the medication as directed. Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 3 weeks of treatment.

Keep using this medication even if you feel fine. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. Store Cozaar at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the medicine at the next regularly scheduled time. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Overdose symptoms may include fast or slow heartbeat, dizziness, or feeling like you might pass out.

What should I avoid while taking Cozaar?

Avoid drinking alcohol. It can lower your blood pressure and may increase some of the side effects of Cozaar. Do not use potassium supplements or salt substitutes while you are taking Cozaar, unless your doctor has told you to.

Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy. Get up slowly and steady yourself to prevent a fall.

Cozaar side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

In rare cases, Cozaar can cause a condition that results in the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue, leading to kidney failure. Call your doctor right away if you have muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness especially if you also have fever, nausea or vomiting, and dark colored urine.

Call your doctor at once if you have any other serious side effects such as:

· feeling like you might pass out;

· painful or difficult urination;

· chest pain;

· numbness or tingly feeling;

· pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding;

· swelling in your hands or feet; or

· slow heart rate, weak pulse, tingly feeling.

Less serious side effects may include:

· runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough;

· muscle, leg, or back pain;

· stomach pain, diarrhea;

· headache, dizziness;

· tired feeling; or

· sleep problems (insomnia).

WARNING: This drug can cause serious fetal harm (possibly death) if used during the last six months of pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor immediately.